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Clinical Exercise Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mercyhealth

$23.18 - $34.78/hr

OVERVIEW The Clinical Exercise Physiologist will: * provide cardiac rehabilitation services through patient assessment, education, treatment planning, and supervised exercise sessions. Coordinate ...

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$5

$26

$57

How much do clinical exercise jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical exercise in the United States is $26.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are clinical exercise physiologists?

Clinical exercise physiologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in using exercise and physical activity to help patients prevent, manage, and recover from chronic diseases and conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, pulmonary disease, and obesity. They assess patients' fitness levels, develop personalized exercise programs, and monitor progress to improve overall health and quality of life. Clinical exercise physiologists often work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or private practice, collaborating closely with physicians and other healthcare providers.

What are some common challenges faced by Clinical Exercise Physiologists when working with patients in a healthcare setting?

Clinical Exercise Physiologists often encounter challenges such as motivating patients who have chronic conditions or low physical activity levels, adapting exercise programs to accommodate a wide range of medical needs, and collaborating with multidisciplinary healthcare teams to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes. Additionally, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of clinical guidelines and documenting patient progress accurately are essential aspects of the role. Effective communication and empathy are key to overcoming these challenges and achieving positive results for patients.

What is the highest paying job in exercise science?

The highest paying jobs in exercise science typically include roles such as exercise physiologists, clinical directors, or sports medicine physicians, especially those with advanced certifications and extensive experience. These positions often require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and work in clinical or research settings, with salaries reaching six figures in some cases.

What jobs can I get with a clinical exercise science degree?

A clinical exercise science degree prepares individuals for roles such as exercise physiologist, cardiac rehabilitation specialist, or fitness trainer. These jobs often require knowledge of human physiology, assessment skills, and certifications like ACSM or NSCA, and may involve working in hospitals, clinics, or fitness centers.

How to become a clinical exercise specialist?

To become a clinical exercise specialist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field, along with certification such as the Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) or similar credentials. Gaining experience through internships or supervised practice is also important, and strong knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and medical conditions is essential for working with clinical populations.

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

To thrive as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist, you need a solid background in exercise science, physiology, and health assessment, often supported by a degree in exercise physiology or a related field. Familiarity with diagnostic tools like metabolic carts, ECG machines, and certifications such as ACSM Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) are typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational ability, and clear communication help build rapport with patients and healthcare teams. These competencies ensure effective patient assessment, safe exercise prescription, and improved health outcomes in clinical settings.

What does a clinical exercise specialist do?

A clinical exercise specialist designs and supervises individualized exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases or health conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes. They assess patients' fitness levels, monitor progress, and work closely with healthcare providers to improve health outcomes, often using tools like ECGs and exercise testing. Certification from organizations like ACSM or NSCA is typically required.

What is the difference between Clinical Exercise vs Physical Therapist?

AspectClinical ExercisePhysical Therapist
CredentialsCertified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP), CPR certificationDoctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), state licensure, CPR certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab centers, fitness facilitiesHospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab centers, private practices
Job FocusDesigning exercise programs for chronic disease management and rehabilitationDiagnosing and treating musculoskeletal, neurological, and other physical impairments
Industry UsageHealthcare, fitness, rehabilitationHealthcare, rehabilitation, sports medicine

Both Clinical Exercise professionals and Physical Therapists work in healthcare settings and focus on patient rehabilitation. However, Clinical Exercise specialists primarily develop exercise programs for chronic disease management, while Physical Therapists diagnose and treat a broader range of physical impairments. Their credentials, work environments, and job responsibilities overlap but serve different roles within patient care.

More about Clinical Exercise jobs
What cities are hiring for Clinical Exercise jobs? Cities with the most Clinical Exercise job openings:
What states have the most Clinical Exercise jobs? States with the most job openings for Clinical Exercise jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Clinical Exercise jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Clinical Exercise jobs are:
Clinical Exercise jobs near you
Infographic showing various Clinical Exercise job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,810 per year, or $26.4 per hour.
Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Mercyhealth

$23.18 - $34.78/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Mercy Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 383 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

495th of 886 rated healthcare providers

Job description

OVERVIEW

The Clinical Exercise Physiologist will:

  • provide cardiac rehabilitation services through patient assessment, education, treatment planning, and supervised exercise sessions. Coordinate referrals, intake scheduling, and new patient orientations while developing individualized care plans.
  • Serve as a case manager for assigned patients, monitoring progress, modifying treatment plans as needed, tracking outcomes, and coordinating care with physicians and other healthcare professionals. Monitor patient safety during rehabilitation sessions, including vital signs, EKGs, symptoms, and blood glucose testing when appropriate.
  • Facilitate individual and group education programs focused on cardiovascular health and lifestyle modification. Support related wellness initiatives, including weight management services, fitness assessments, group exercise programs, occupational health testing, community outreach, and student training as needed.
  • Participate in departmental meetings, patient care conferences, and quality improvement activities to support program excellence and positive patient outcomes.

Schedule:

Monday, Wednesday, Friday - Janesville from 7am-2:30pm,

Tuesday - Janesville from 9am -4pm

Thursday - Lake Geneva from 8am-4pm

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Patient assessment/monitoring: biometric data, EKG, medical record/patient history review, medication reconciliation, signs and symptoms, exercise tolerance, mental health status, quality of life, dietary habits.
  • Exercise testing: submaximal and exercise tolerance testing, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility.
  • Exercise prescription and treatment plan development. Treatment plan/exercise implementation. Identifies needed exercise modifications. Makes changes to the treatment plan per the changing needs of the patient.
  • Exercise training and leadership: communicates proper execution of the exercise and use of equipment, communicates safety strategies.
  • Education and behavior change: identifies educational needs, communicates health information, facilitates attendance to group education classes, patient goal setting and engagement, uses strategies like motivational interviewing and active listening to facilitate successful behavior change.
  • Documentation: documents and report patient's clinical status and response to exercise training in the medical record. Completes regular progress reporting to referring providers and medical director.
  • Environment: maintains safe environment by participating in infection control procedures and reporting any equipment malfunctions or environmental concerns in a timely and appropriate manner.


Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Physiology or related field required.
  • Master's Degree in Exercise Physiology preferred.


Certification and Licensure

  • If no Master's Degree, Certification through ACSM (Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist) or AACVPR (Certified Cardiac Rehabilitation Professional or Pulmonary Rehabilitation Certificate) required within 3 years.
  • Current BLS certification.
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) preferred.

Skills and Abilities

  • Interpretive/analytical skills.
  • Effective interpersonal communication skills.
  • Organizational skills.
  • Microsoft Office software knowledge.

PAY RANGE:

$23.18 - $34.78

Mercyhealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

Mercyhealth offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision

  • Life & Disability Insurance

  • FSA/HSA Options

  • Generous, accruing paid time off

  • Paid Parental and caregiver leave

  • Career advancement and educational opportunities

  • Tuition and certification reimbursement

  • Certification Reimbursement

  • Well-being Programs

  • Employee Discounts

  • On-Demand Pay

  • Financial Education

  • Annual recognition/awards events

  • Partner appreciation days

  • Family entertainment/attractions discount

  • Community service/improvement opportunities

Click here for more details regarding Mercyhealth Careers Benefit Information.

At Mercyhealth, we don't simply hire people, we empower employee-partners who are passionate about making lives better. As an integrated health system, we deliver exceptional, coordinated across seven hospitals, 85 primary and specialty clinics, and a team of over 7,500 professionals serving northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.

Mercyhealth has been nationally recognized for our commitment to our people and culture, including:

  • #1 in the nation on AARP's Best Employers for Workers Over 50

  • One of Working Mother magazine's 100 Best Companies for Working Mothers

  • A Top 50 Company and Top 10 Nonprofit for Executive Women

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About Mercyhealth

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Mercyhealth, we don’t simply hire people – instead, we empower talented, dedicated health care professionals to provide the highest quality patient care possible with a passion for making lives better. As an integrated health care provider, we provide exceptional, coordinated health care. The organization consists of seven hospitals, 85+ clinics, and more than 7,500 employee-partners to serve patients in 15 counties throughout northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. We hope you’ll consider becoming the newest member of the Mercyhealth family and join our passion for making lives better!

Industry

Hospitals, fitness and sports centers and health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Janesville, WI, US

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