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Entry Level Exercise Physiology Research Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Entry Level Exercise Physiology Research information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$27.2K

$87.9K

$149.7K

How much do entry level exercise physiology research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level exercise physiology research in Raleigh, NC is $87,895.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,200.00 and $95,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry level exercise physiology research assistant?

As an entry-level exercise physiology research assistant, you’ll typically be involved in supporting ongoing studies by recruiting participants, assisting with data collection (such as conducting exercise tests or monitoring physiological responses), and helping to analyze and organize data. You may also contribute to literature reviews or assist in preparing materials for presentations and publications. Collaboration is common, as you’ll work closely with researchers, lab technicians, and sometimes clinicians. This hands-on experience not only builds your technical skills but also provides insight into research design and teamwork in a scientific setting.

What is an entry level exercise physiology research position?

An entry level exercise physiology research position is a starting role focused on supporting scientific studies related to how physical activity affects the human body. Individuals in this position assist with data collection, participant monitoring, laboratory testing, and analysis under the supervision of experienced researchers. These roles are ideal for recent graduates in exercise science, kinesiology, or related fields who want hands-on experience in academic or clinical research settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level exercise physiology researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Exercise Physiology Researcher, you need a solid understanding of human physiology, exercise science, and research methodologies, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in exercise science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as SPSS or Excel), and possibly CPR/AED certification is often required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help you collect accurate data, interpret results, and collaborate with research teams. These skills are crucial for producing reliable research findings and contributing meaningfully to advancements in exercise science.

What is the difference between Entry Level Exercise Physiology Research vs Entry Level Cardiology Research?

AspectEntry Level Exercise Physiology ResearchEntry Level Cardiology Research
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Exercise Science or related field; certification preferredBachelor's in Cardiology, Nursing, or related health sciences; certification may be advantageous
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, fitness centers, universitiesHospitals, clinics, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, sports organizations, health research firmsMedical centers, cardiology clinics, research hospitals

Entry Level Exercise Physiology Research and Entry Level Cardiology Research share similarities in required education and work environments but focus on different health areas. Exercise physiology emphasizes physical activity and fitness, while cardiology research centers on heart health. Both roles serve in research settings and require relevant health science backgrounds, but they target distinct patient populations and specialties.

What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Physiology Research jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Exercise Physiology Research jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Exercise Physiology Research jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Exercise Physiology Research jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Exercise Physiology Research jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Exercise Physiology Research job openings:

Exercise Specialist - Duke Fitness Center - part time

Duke Health

Durham, NC

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Duke Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 253 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description


General Description of the Job Class

The Duke Health and Fitness Center is seeking a highly qualified exercise specialist to join our team. Responsibilities include to provide safety for clinical members during exercise sessions and to triage symptoms and vitals for members pre/during/post exercise sessions and providing personal training sessions to a diverse member population. Supporting group fitness classes on land and in pool is an added support.

Work Performed

Level I - Participate in screening individuals' medical histories and current Health status to identify major health risk factors; administer fitness testing procedures and counsel individuals regarding test results and us of exercise equipment, assist with fitness-related educational programs. - Population usually low risk, even though risk factors exist. Entry level work with medical programs, scripts must be co-signed by level 3 Exercise Specialist, Exercise Physiologist or supervisor. Level II - Plan, coordinate and implement the development of exercise and related programs for a variety of special populations and clinical programs. - Perform a wide variety of fitness assessments and/or non-invasive cardiopulmonary tests according to work site. - Responsible for developing safe exercise prescriptions, goal setting and exercise progression for low, medium and high-risk patients. - Able to teach variety of land and water based group exercise for low, medium and high risk clients as required by work site. - Requires co-sign / oversight by Level 3 Exercise Specialist, Exercise Physiologist or supervisor. Level III - Responsible for all exercise requirements indicated in cardiac rehab state license, AACVPR national and ACSM guidelines as applicable to work site. - Able to teach most/all offered land and water based group exercise for low, medium and high risk clients as required by work site. - Recognizes symptom changes & signs of problems. - Knows appropriate medical response / processes. - Initiates first responder care. - Active in program certification process and regulatory agency review as applicable to work site. - Understands care management and interacts as patient advocate for appropriate referrals (non-physician) to other professionals or community services as indicated. - Function as a Team Leader and performs charge responsibilities

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

N/A

Level Characteristics

Level I: All exercise scripts have to be co-signed by higher-level ES Lower risk responsibilities. Significant on the job training takes place at this level. Level II: Higher level of function and autonomy, but still needs oversight. May have some "charge duty" responsibilities, but not full supervisory responsibility. Level III: Functions independently in all diagnostic / clinical tasks. Higher-level function regarding program oversight. No co-signatures required (unless future national policy requires EP signature.) Maximum level attained without master's degree or RCEP credential.

Minimum QualificationsEducation

Bachelor's degree in exercise science or related field required.

Experience

Level I: No previous experience required.Level II: Minimum 1-year applicable experience. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted. Level III: Minimum 2 yrs. applicable experience. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted.

Degrees, Licensures, Certifications

Level I: BLS certification Level II: BLS; ACSM certification (must attain certification within 1 year of hire) Level III: BLS (ACLS preferred), ACSM Clinical Certification as Exercise Specialist required


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.


Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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