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Cardiac Exercise Physiologist Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Cardiac Exercise Physiologist information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$12

$27

$46

How much do cardiac exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for cardiac exercise physiologist in Raleigh, NC is $27.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.10 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Cardiac Exercise Physiologist?

A Cardiac Exercise Physiologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in designing and supervising exercise programs for individuals with heart conditions. They assess patients' cardiovascular health, develop safe exercise routines, and monitor progress to help improve heart function and overall fitness. These specialists often work as part of a cardiac rehabilitation team in hospitals, clinics, or wellness centers, helping patients recover after heart attacks, surgeries, or manage chronic heart diseases.

How does a Cardiac Exercise Physiologist collaborate with other healthcare professionals in a cardiac rehabilitation setting?

Cardiac Exercise Physiologists work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including cardiologists, nurses, physical therapists, and dietitians, to develop and implement tailored exercise programs for patients recovering from cardiac events. They regularly communicate patient progress, share assessment findings, and adjust exercise prescriptions based on input from the broader care team. This collaborative approach ensures that each patient's rehabilitation plan is safe, effective, and aligned with their overall treatment goals, fostering a supportive work environment and comprehensive patient care.

What is the difference between Cardiac Exercise Physiologist vs Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist?

AspectCardiac Exercise PhysiologistCardiac Rehabilitation Specialist
CredentialsCertified Exercise Physiologist, ACSM or CSEP certificationCertified in cardiac rehab, often with additional certifications
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, fitness centersRehabilitation centers, hospitals, outpatient programs
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, fitness, cardiac rehab programsHospitals, rehab clinics, cardiac centers

Both roles focus on cardiac health, but Cardiac Exercise Physiologists primarily design exercise programs, while Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialists often oversee comprehensive rehab programs, including education and counseling.

Is there a high demand for exercise physiologists?

The demand for exercise physiologists, including cardiac exercise physiologists, is expected to grow faster than average due to increasing awareness of cardiovascular health and the need for rehabilitation programs. Employment opportunities are strong in hospitals, clinics, and wellness centers, often requiring certification and specialized knowledge of cardiac conditions. This growth reflects a broader trend toward preventive healthcare and chronic disease management.

What does a cardiac exercise physiologist do?

A cardiac exercise physiologist specializes in developing and supervising exercise programs for patients with heart conditions to improve cardiovascular health. They assess patients' fitness levels, monitor heart responses during exercise, and often work in clinical or rehabilitation settings, requiring certifications such as ACSM or CSEP. Their goal is to help patients recover, manage symptoms, and reduce the risk of future heart problems.

What careers can an exercise physiologist do?

An exercise physiologist can pursue careers in cardiac rehabilitation, sports medicine, clinical exercise testing, and wellness coaching. They often work in hospitals, clinics, fitness centers, or research settings, utilizing skills in patient assessment, exercise programming, and health education.

What is a cardiac physiologist's salary?

The average salary for a cardiac exercise physiologist in the United States ranges from $50,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on the healthcare setting and level of specialization, with some professionals earning higher with advanced credentials or in metropolitan areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cardiac Exercise Physiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cardiac Exercise Physiologist, you need a solid understanding of exercise physiology, cardiac anatomy, and rehabilitation principles, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree and professional certification (such as ACSM Clinical Exercise Physiologist). Familiarity with ECG interpretation, metabolic testing equipment, and electronic health records is essential for monitoring and documenting patient progress. Outstanding interpersonal communication, empathy, and the ability to motivate patients set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualities are critical for safely guiding cardiac patients through rehabilitation and promoting positive health outcomes.
What job categories do people searching Cardiac Exercise Physiologist jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Cardiac Exercise Physiologist jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Infographic showing various Cardiac Exercise Physiologist job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,325 per year, or $27.6 per hour.
Clinical Exercise Physiologist (Per Diem)

Clinical Exercise Physiologist (Per Diem)

UNC Health Careers

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description

The UNC Hospitals Cardiac Rehab Program is a well-established, AACVPR-certified program located at the UNC Wellness Center in beautiful Meadowmont Village, Chapel Hill, NC. This setting offers a unique and uplifting environment where patients engage in rehabilitation within a bright, welcoming Clinical Fitness Area-an ideal setting to promote wellness!

We are seeking a Clinical Exercise Physiologist to join our collaborative, multidisciplinary team. This role provides clinical care and monitors patients participating in our cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation program, working closely with other healthcare professionals to support optimal patient outcomes.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Monitoring patients during rehab sessions
  • Conducting initial assessments
  • Developing, implementing, and updating exercise prescriptions
  • Conducting Graded Exercise Tests and Six-Minute Walk Tests
  • Reporting patient issues to the supervising physician
  • Providing patient education, counseling and ongoing support

Preferred qualifications for our role include:

  • Master's degree in clinical Exercise Physiology
  • 3-5 years of experience in cardiac and/or pulmonary rehabilitation

Your passion belongs at UNC Health. Join more than 56,000 teammates working together to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve across North Carolina.

Summary:
Plans, develops and delivers exercise program for both individuals and groups. Performs stress tests and other physical fitness tests to provide results and recommendations to care providers. Prepares exercise schedules and supervises exercise staff. Manages and makes recommendations for exercise equipment.


Responsibilities:
1. Develops Exercise Prescriptions Performs stress testing. Performs alternate functional assessments. Develops safe and effective exercise prescriptions. Meets with patients for initial assessment. Follows ACSM guidelines in designing exercise prescriptions. Coordinates appropriate GXT protocols. Obtains approval of prescription by Medical Director. Documents assessment findings and recommendations.
2. Maintains a Safe and Attractive Environment Monitors cardio equipment in clinical fitness area and Stress Test lab for performance, safety, and cleanliness. Advises Program Director regarding exercise equipment purchase and maintenance problems
3. Maintains Credentials Maintains certification in ACSM, BCLS/AED and ACLS. Participates in NCCRA meetings and other opportunities for continuing ed. Participates in monthly code practices.
4. Makes Assignments for Exercise Staff Prepares daily assignments to exercise staff. Prepares monthly work schedules for exercise staff and ensures appropriate staff to patient ratios. Supervises exercise staff. Keeps Program Director aware of problems with staffing or employees.
5. Monitors Patients During Exercise Assists patients and staff in implementing exercise prescriptions. Evaluates and modifies exercise prescriptions as needed. Recognizes potential medical problems and reports to MD or RN. Recognizes risky exercise situations and intervenes to ensure patent safety. Provides expertise to staff regarding exercise physiology and exercise psychology. Documents interventions with patients. Responds appropriately to medical emergencies. Monitors response to exercise such as rhythm strips, blood pressures, and O2 Sats. Reviews log sheets for compliance on a weekly basis.
6. Participates in Staff Meetings Regularly attends staff meetings. Presents patient exercise progress and evaluation results. Makes exercise related recommendations. Considers input from other staff members. Sends evaluation results and multidisciplinary recommendations to primary MD. Meets with assigned patients individually to review results and recommendations discussed at staff meetings. Attends Quarterly Wellness Staff Meetings. Participates in CQI.
7. Plans & Supervises Group Exercise for Rehab & Prevention Develops safe, age-appropriate, warm up and cool down routines. Re-evaluates and makes appropriate changes in group exercise routines. Considers group needs when planning activities and makes individual modifications if necessary. Shares exercise leadership duties with exercise staff.
8. Provides Patient Education Teaches Exercise for Life Class. Provides individual patient education on exercise topics as needed. Develops written exercise related materials. Maintains bulletin board in classroom.


Other Information

Other information:
Education Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, Kinesiology or related field.
Licensure/Certification Requirements:
Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) certification by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) within six (6) months from date of hire or Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist (RCEP) certification by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) within six (6) months from date of hire.
Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) certification within one (1) month from date of hire.
Professional Experience Requirements:
One (1) year of experience working in a clinical exercise setting.
Knowledge/Skills/and Abilities Requirements:


Job Details

Legal Employer: STATE

Entity: UNC Medical Center

Organization Unit: Cardiac Rehabilitation

Work Type: Per Diem

Standard Hours Per Week: 8.00

Salary Range: $23.24 - $33.41 per hour (Hiring Range)

Pay offers are determined by experience and internal equity

Work Assignment Type: Onsite

Work Schedule: Day Job

Location of Job: US:NC:Chapel Hill

Exempt From Overtime: Exempt: No


This is a State position employed by UNC Health Care System with UNC Health benefits. If, however, you are presently an employee of another North Carolina agency and currently participate in TSERS or the ORP, you will be eligible to continue participating in those plans at UNC Health.


Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran or political affiliation.
UNC Health makes reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as applicants and employees with disabilities. All interested applicants are invited to apply for career opportunities. Please email applicant.accommodations@unchealth.unc.edu if you need a reasonable accommodation to search and/or to apply for a career opportunity.

Employment Type: