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Certified Exercise Physiologist Jobs in Raleigh, NC

General Manager

Cary, NC · On-site

$40K - $55K/yr

Paid In-house stretching certification and training provided * High-energy atmosphere * Career ... AA or BS in Exercise Science or Athletic Training or a Related Field with Anatomy & Physiology ...

General Manager

Cary, NC · On-site

$40K - $55K/yr

Paid In-house stretching certification and training provided * High-energy atmosphere * Career ... AA or BS in Exercise Science or Athletic Training or a Related Field with Anatomy & Physiology ...

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Certified Exercise Physiologist information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$12

$27

$46

How much do certified exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified 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 certified exercise physiologist?

A Certified Exercise Physiologist is a health and fitness professional who has specialized training in exercise science and is certified by a recognized organization, such as the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). They assess, design, and implement exercise and physical activity programs for individuals with medical conditions or healthy populations. Their goal is to help clients improve cardiovascular fitness, strength, flexibility, and overall wellness, often working in clinical, community, or corporate settings. Certified Exercise Physiologists also monitor progress and modify programs to ensure safety and effectiveness.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a certified exercise physiologist?

To thrive as a Certified Exercise Physiologist, you need a deep understanding of human physiology, exercise prescription, and clinical assessment, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in exercise science and a recognized certification (such as ACSM-EP). Familiarity with cardiopulmonary exercise testing, metabolic carts, and health assessment software is also essential. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational ability, and effective communication help build trust and encourage client adherence to fitness programs. These skills ensure safe and effective exercise interventions, optimal client outcomes, and the ability to work collaboratively in healthcare or fitness environments.

What are some common challenges faced by certified exercise physiologists when working with clients who have chronic health conditions?

Certified Exercise Physiologists often encounter challenges such as adapting exercise programs to accommodate clients’ medical limitations, coordinating with healthcare teams, and motivating clients who may be apprehensive about physical activity due to their conditions. Effective communication and ongoing assessment are key to ensuring safety and progress. Building trust and fostering a supportive environment also play a crucial role in helping clients overcome barriers and achieve their health goals.

What is the difference between Certified Exercise Physiologist vs Certified Personal Trainer?

AspectCertified Exercise PhysiologistCertified Personal Trainer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in exercise science or related field, certification from recognized agencies, and clinical experienceCertification from organizations like NASM, ACE, or ACSM, often with less formal education requirements
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and specialized health facilitiesGyms, fitness centers, private training studios, and community fitness programs
Job FocusAssessing medical history, developing rehab and exercise programs for clients with health conditionsDesigning and implementing general fitness programs for healthy clients

While both roles involve exercise programming, Certified Exercise Physiologists typically work in clinical settings with clients needing medical supervision, whereas Certified Personal Trainers focus on general fitness and wellness in gym environments.

What can I do as a certified exercise physiologist?

A certified exercise physiologist designs and implements exercise programs to improve health, manage chronic diseases, and enhance physical fitness. They work in clinical, community, or fitness settings, often collaborating with healthcare providers and using assessments to tailor interventions. Certification ensures they have the necessary knowledge of human physiology, exercise science, and health promotion.

What careers can you do with certified exercise physiologist?

A certified exercise physiologist can work in clinical settings, rehabilitation centers, fitness facilities, and sports organizations. They develop and implement exercise programs for individuals with chronic diseases, injuries, or health conditions, often collaborating with healthcare professionals. Career options include cardiac rehabilitation specialist, clinical exercise physiologist, sports performance coach, and wellness program coordinator.

Where do certified exercise physiologists make the most money?

Certified exercise physiologists tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as metropolitan areas and states with robust healthcare industries. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and working in specialized settings like hospitals or sports medicine clinics.

What are popular job titles related to Certified Exercise Physiologist jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Certified Exercise Physiologist jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Certified Exercise Physiologist jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Certified Exercise Physiologist jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Certified Exercise Physiologist jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Certified Exercise Physiologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Certified Exercise Physiologist job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,325 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist - Cardiopulmonary Rehab - PRN

Duke University

Durham, NC

Per diem

Re-posted 15 days ago


Duke University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

491st of 629 rated colleges and universities


Job description

At Duke Health, we're driven by a commitment to compassionate care that changes the lives of patients, their loved ones, and the greater community. No matter where your talents lie, join us and discover how we can advance health together.

About Duke University Hospital

Pursue your passion for caring with Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina, which is consistently ranked among the best in the United States. The largest of Duke Health's four hospitals with 1062 patient beds, it features comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic facilities, including a regional emergency/trauma center, an endo-surgery center, and more.

Job Duties:

Meet the knowledge and skillset outlined in the core competencies for Cardiac Rehabilitation professionals guidelines based on AACVPR's guidelines.  This includes, but is not limited to, patient assessment, nutritional/physical activity counseling, education on smoking cessation, and management of the following: diabetes, blood pressure, weight, lipids.  Candidate will need to also be able to provide psychosocial support to patients, as they are dealing with life-changing events.  Candidate should have knowledge of exercise parameters for patients with heart disease.

Key Responsibilities: 

Monitor vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, symptoms, and blood glucose levels, ensuring accurate documentation within Epic, Duke's electronic medical records system. 

Formulate personalized exercise prescriptions tailored to clients with diverse health histories and varied goals. 

Deliver expert instruction in group exercise classes

Offer individualized personal treatment plans to a diverse client base, accommodating a range of health histories and objectives. 

Maintain regular communication with patients and interdisciplinary team 

Work Performed: 

Ensure a secure exercise environment for clients, monitoring vital signs and collaboratively communicating care plans with the complete healthcare team. Spearhead the planning, coordination, and implementation of exercise and related programs tailored to diverse special populations, clinical programs, and healthy demographics. Undertake the responsibility of creating personalized exercise prescriptions, setting goals, and orchestrating exercise progression for patients at varying risk levels-low, medium, and high. Conduct comprehensive fitness assessments for clients spanning a spectrum of health abilities. Function as an integral team player, contributing to optimal client care and fostering mutual support within the team. 

Required Qualifications at this Level 

Education 

Master's degree in Exercise Physiology or Exercise Science. Bachelor's degree plus ACSM RCEP credential accepted 

Experience 

Level I: Minimum 1 yrs applicable experience, prefer 2 

Level II: Minimum 3 yrs applicable experience (leadership experience preferred). 

Degrees, Licensure, and/or Certification 

Level I: ACSM Clinical Certification as Exercise Physiologist or Clinical Exercise Physiologist 

Level II: ACSM Clinical Certification as Clinical Exercise Physiologist 


Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.


Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.


Essential Physical Job Functions:

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.



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About Duke University

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Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Durham, NC, US