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Clinical Exercise Physiologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Clinical Exercise Physiologist information

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$5

$26

$57

How much do clinical exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical exercise physiologist in Virginia is $26.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $30.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical exercise physiologist?

A Clinical Exercise Physiologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in using exercise to help prevent and manage chronic diseases and medical conditions. They assess patients' physical abilities, design safe and effective exercise programs, and monitor progress, often working with individuals who have cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, or musculoskeletal issues. Clinical Exercise Physiologists often collaborate with doctors and other healthcare providers to improve patients' health outcomes through physical activity. Their work is essential in cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, and chronic disease management. They also educate patients about lifestyle modifications to promote long-term health.

What does a clinical exercise physiologist do?

A clinical exercise physiologist works with a variety of patients to maintain or improve their health through physical activity. In this career, your duties may involve working with people with chronic medical conditions such as heart or lung disease, asthma, or diabetes. Your responsibilities may include assessing their needs, monitoring their exercise, and ensuring that they are following safe exercise practices. A certified exercise physiologist, also known as a CEP, may also work with patients who are recovering from a medical emergency or need to regain physical strength following surgery.

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

To excel as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist, you need a solid background in exercise science, human physiology, and clinical assessment, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree and professional certification (such as ACSM-CEP). Familiarity with cardiopulmonary exercise testing equipment, ECG interpretation, and health management software is commonly required. Excellent interpersonal skills, motivational ability, and clear communication help build trust and foster adherence among diverse patient populations. These competencies are crucial for delivering safe, effective exercise interventions and promoting long-term health outcomes in clinical settings.

What are some common challenges faced by clinical exercise physiologists when implementing individualized exercise programs?

Clinical Exercise Physiologists often encounter challenges such as varying patient motivation levels, adherence to prescribed exercise regimens, and managing complex medical conditions like cardiovascular or metabolic diseases. Adapting exercise plans to accommodate individual health limitations while ensuring safety and effectiveness is crucial. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians and physical therapists, is essential to coordinate care and adjust programs as patients progress.

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

AspectClinical Exercise PhysiologistCardiac Rehabilitation Specialist
CredentialsCertified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP), CPR certificationCertified Cardiac Rehabilitation Professional (CCRP), CPR certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, rehab centers, fitness facilitiesHospitals, outpatient cardiac rehab programs, clinics
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, sports medicine, rehab centersCardiology clinics, hospitals, rehab centers
Primary FocusDesigning exercise programs for patients with chronic diseasesManaging and guiding patients through cardiac rehab programs

The main difference between a Clinical Exercise Physiologist and a Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist lies in their focus and certification. Clinical Exercise Physiologists develop exercise plans for various chronic conditions, while Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialists specifically focus on recovery for cardiac patients. Both roles work in healthcare settings and require similar certifications, but their primary patient populations and program goals differ.

Are clinical exercise physiologists in demand?

Clinical exercise physiologists are in growing demand due to increasing awareness of the benefits of exercise in managing chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Employment opportunities are expected to expand as healthcare systems emphasize preventive care and rehabilitation, often requiring certification and specialized knowledge in exercise testing and program development.

What can you do with a clinical exercise physiologist degree?

A clinical exercise physiologist degree prepares individuals to assess, develop, and implement exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. They often work in healthcare settings, hospitals, or rehabilitation centers, using skills in patient assessment, exercise testing, and program design, sometimes requiring certification like ACSM or NSCA. This role involves working closely with medical teams to improve patient health outcomes through exercise therapy.

Where do clinical exercise physiologists make the most money?

Clinical exercise physiologists tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater healthcare demand, such as urban areas and certain states. Salaries can also increase with advanced certifications, experience, and working in specialized clinical settings or hospitals.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Clinical Exercise Physiologist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs in VA?

For Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Clinical Exercise Physiologist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,340 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Clinical Exercise Physiologist - Cardiac Rehab - Rockbridge

Lexington, VA • On-site


Carillion Clinic
Hospitals • 10K+ employees

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 215 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

454th of 893 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Recommended by parents


Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Clinical Exercise Physiologist - Cardiac Rehab - Rockbridge (Open)

This position is located at Carilion Rockbridge Community Hospital (CRBH) in Lexington, VA, working full time, day hours, Monday-Friday. The Clinical Exercise Physiologist provides clinical exercise physiology services in inpatient and outpatient settings for patients with cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, and other chronic diseases. Performs patient assessments, develops and implements individualized treatment plans and exercise prescriptions, conducts non-invasive diagnostic testing, and monitors patient progress to promote recovery, improve functional capacity, and reduce health risks. Provides patient education and collaborates with physicians and interdisciplinary care teams to deliver safe, effective, and evidence-based care while supporting quality improvement and program outcomes.

The Clinical Exercise Physiologist

  • Provides clinical exercise physiology services in inpatient and outpatient settings for patients with cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, and other chronic diseases.
  • Performs comprehensive patient evaluations and assessments and documents findings accurately and completely in accordance with departmental standards.
  • Develops, implements, and modifies individualized treatment plans and exercise prescriptions based on patient age, diagnosis, medical condition, risk factors, and clinical response.
  • Safely administers and monitors individual and group exercise therapy programs designed to improve functional capacity, support recovery, and reduce the effects of inactivity and chronic disease.
  • Evaluates patient progress, adjusts treatment interventions as appropriate, and documents outcomes to support achievement of clinical goals.
  • Provides patient education related to disease processes, recovery, smoking cessation, hypertension, diabetes management, medication adherence, nutrition, lipid management, stress reduction, and other risk factor modification strategies.
  • Demonstrates proficiency in electrocardiogram (EKG) interpretation and applies EKG telemetry monitoring during exercise testing and rehabilitation activities.
  • Performs and interprets non-invasive cardiovascular and pulmonary diagnostic testing, including 12-lead electrocardiograms, stress testing, Holter monitor application and processing, pacemaker clinic technical support activities, cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), invasive cardiopulmonary exercise testing (iCPET), and other diagnostic procedures as assigned.
  • Develops inpatient and outpatient discharge plans and facilitates transition to Phase 2, Phase 3, home-based, or community fitness programs as appropriate.
  • Collaborates with physicians, nurses, rehabilitation staff, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care and optimize patient outcomes.
  • Responds to medical emergencies and changes in patient condition in accordance with departmental policies, procedures, and established clinical guidelines.
  • Participates in the development, implementation, measurement, and evaluation of quality improvement initiatives and utilizes outcome data to support program effectiveness and performance improvement.
  • Conducts, organizes, and participates in meetings, continuing education activities, in-service programs, and professional development opportunities.
  • Provides guidance, training, and support to clinical support staff and promotes a collaborative, respectful, and team-oriented work environment.
  • Promotes effective communication, teamwork, and cooperation within the department and throughout the organization.
  • Assists with staff development activities, community outreach programs, special projects, administrative responsibilities, and other duties as assigned.
  • Completes required competencies, certifications, continuing education, and training to maintain professional knowledge and clinical proficiency.
  • Adheres to organizational policies, departmental standards, and applicable regulatory and accreditation requirements.
What We Require:

Education: Bachelor's degree required.

Experience: Minimum 300 hours of internship experience required based on level of education and certification. See qualifications grid below.

Licensure/Certifications: ACSM CEP or related certification required only if no master's degree and less than 10 years experience.

Other Minimum Qualifications: Knowledge of exercise physiology principles, cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation, chronic disease management, and risk factor modification. Ability to perform patient assessments, develop individualized treatment plans and exercise prescriptions, and evaluate patient response to interventions. Skill in electrocardiogram (EKG) interpretation, cardiac monitoring, and administration of non-invasive diagnostic testing, including stress testing and Holter monitoring. Strong clinical judgment and critical thinking skills with the ability to recognize changes in patient condition and respond appropriately in emergency situations. Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to educate patients, collaborate with interdisciplinary healthcare teams, and maintain accurate clinical documentation. Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications Grid:

Graduate of an accredited Exercise Physiology or related program with a minimum of Master's level preparation. Minimum of 300 hours of internship experience required.

OR

Graduate of an accredited Exercise Physiology or related program with a minimum of Bachelor's level preparation.

5 years of recent Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and current ACSM CEP or related Certification.

OR

Graduate of an accredited Exercise Physiology or related program with a minimum of Bachelor's level preparation.

10 years of recent Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation

60 hours of continuing education every 3 years is required to maintain position

This job description is only meant to be a representative summary of the major responsibilities and accountabilities performed by the incumbents of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description.

Compensation Range:

$23.97 - $35.96

Employee pay is based on a variety of factors, including qualifications, credentials, education, and prior work experience. The compensation range does not include benefits or pension plan.

Benefits, Pay and Well-being at Carilion Clinic

Carilion understands the importance of prioritizing your well-being to help you develop and thrive. That's why we offer a well-rounded benefits package, and many perks and well-being resources to help you live a happy, healthy life – at work and when you're away.

When you make your tomorrow with us, we'll enhance your potential to realize the best in yourself. Below are benefits available to you when you join Carilion:

  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, & Vision Benefits
  • Employer Funded Pension Plan, vested after five years (Voluntary 403B)
  • Paid Time Off (accrued from day one)
  • Onsite fitness studios and discounts to our Carilion Wellness centers
  • Access to our health and wellness app, Personify Health
  • Discounts on childcare
  • Continued education and training

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About Carilion Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

This is Carilion Clinic ... An organization where innovation happens, collaboration is expected and ideas are valued. A not-for-profit, mission-driven health system built on progress and partnerships. A courageous team that is always learning, never discouraged and forever curious. Headquartered in Roanoke, Va., you will find a robust system of award winning hospitals, Level 1 and 3 trauma centers, Level 3 NICU, Institute of Orthopedics and Neurosciences, multi-specialty physician practices, and The Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and Research Institute. Carilion is where you can make your own path, make new discoveries and, most importantly, make a difference. Here, in a place where the air is clean, people are kind and life is good. Make your tomorrow with us.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Roanoke, VA, US

Year founded

1899


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