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Exercise Physiologist Hospital Jobs in Raleigh, NC

TravelAssist Case Manager

Durham, NC · On-site +1

$19 - $24.50/hr

The TravelAssist Case Manager must exercise independent thinking and critically evaluate ... air ambulance, hospitals, etc.) to supplement the existing Hyperbaric Chamber and Referral ...

Exercise Physiologist Hospital information

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$12

$27

$46

How much do exercise physiologist hospital jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise physiologist hospital 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 does an exercise physiologist do in a hospital setting?

An Exercise Physiologist in a hospital assesses, plans, and implements exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases or those recovering from surgeries and medical conditions. They work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to design safe and effective exercise interventions that help improve patients’ cardiovascular, metabolic, and musculoskeletal health. Their goal is to enhance patients’ physical function, manage symptoms, and support recovery, often as part of cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, or oncology care. They also educate patients about physical activity and monitor their progress to ensure safety and effectiveness.

What are some common challenges faced by exercise physiologists working in a hospital setting?

Exercise physiologists in hospitals often encounter challenges such as managing a diverse patient population with varying medical conditions, balancing individualized exercise prescriptions with safety protocols, and coordinating care with multidisciplinary teams. They must stay current on best practices for patients with complex or acute illnesses, which requires ongoing education and adaptability. Additionally, working in a fast-paced environment means prioritizing patient needs and adjusting schedules to accommodate urgent cases or unexpected changes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise physiologist in a hospital setting, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Physiologist in a hospital, you need a solid background in exercise science or physiology, typically backed by a bachelor's or master's degree and relevant certifications like ACSM-EP or CEP. Familiarity with cardiopulmonary testing equipment, EHR systems, and rehabilitation software is important for daily tasks. Exceptional interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to educate and motivate patients are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies enable effective patient assessment, safe and personalized exercise prescription, and improved recovery outcomes in clinical environments.

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

AspectExercise Physiologist HospitalCardiac Rehabilitation Specialist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Physiology, certification (e.g., ACSM)Similar credentials, often with additional certification in cardiac rehab
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, rehab centersCardiac rehab programs, hospitals, outpatient clinics
Employer & IndustryHealthcare facilities, hospitalsHospitals, specialized cardiac rehab centers
Job FocusDeveloping exercise programs for various health conditionsDesigning and supervising exercise for cardiac patients

Both roles require similar credentials and work in healthcare settings, but Exercise Physiologists have a broader focus, while Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialists focus specifically on cardiac patients. The choice depends on your specialization interest within healthcare.

Is there a demand for exercise physiologists?

Exercise physiologists are in growing demand due to increasing awareness of chronic disease management and preventive health. They work in hospitals, clinics, and wellness centers, often requiring certification and knowledge of exercise testing and rehabilitation. Job prospects are strong, especially in healthcare settings focused on patient recovery and chronic condition management.

Where do exercise physiologists make the most money?

Exercise physiologists tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater healthcare funding, such as metropolitan areas with advanced medical facilities. Salaries are also influenced by experience, certifications, and working in specialized settings like hospitals or sports medicine clinics.

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

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

Infographic showing various Exercise Physiologist Hospital job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,328 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist - Cardiopulmonary Rehab - PRN

Duke University

Durham, NC • On-site

Other

Re-posted yesterday


Duke University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

488th of 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Exercise Physiologist - Cardiopulmonary Rehab - PRN

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, 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