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Exercise Psychologist Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

MedPro Healthcare Staffing

Travel Psychiatric RN

Louisburg, NC · On-site

$1.6K - $2.2K/wk

Exercise balanced judgement in evaluation situations and making decisions to handle difficult or ... Registered Nurse, RN, Psychiatric, Travel Nurse, Contract Nurse, Agency Nurse, Agency RN, RN-Psych, ...

Orange County, NC

SOAR Caseworker*

NC · On-site

$48K - $56K/yr

... leeway to exercise independent judgment within the framework of applicable rules, regulations ... and psychological aspects of client's problem. Skill in interviewing, writing, speaking and ...

A & Associates

FIELD SERVICE CASE WORKER

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$20/hr

Successful candidates are professional, exercise sound judgment, communicate effectively, maintain ... services, healthcare, psychology, education, or a related field is preferred. · Previous ...

All JobsExercise Psychologist JobsExercise Psychologist Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Exercise Psychologist information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$10.7K

$90.2K

$387.4K

How much do exercise psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise psychologist in Raleigh, NC is $90,217.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $113,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Exercise Psychologist vs Sports Psychologist?

AspectExercise PsychologistSports Psychologist
CredentialsMaster's or Doctorate in Psychology, certification in exercise or health psychologyMaster's or Doctorate in Psychology, specialized sports psychology certification
Work EnvironmentHealthcare settings, fitness centers, rehabilitation clinicsSports teams, athletic organizations, private practice
Industry UsageHealth promotion, rehabilitation, improving exercise adherenceEnhancing athletic performance, mental resilience for athletes

Exercise Psychologists focus on using psychological principles to promote physical activity, improve health, and aid recovery. Sports Psychologists specialize in mental skills training to enhance athletic performance and help athletes cope with competition stress. While both roles require similar credentials, their work environments and client focus differ, with Exercise Psychologists often working in healthcare and fitness settings, and Sports Psychologists working with athletes and sports teams.

How much does an exercise psychologist make a year?

An exercise psychologist typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and work setting. Salaries can increase with advanced certifications and a strong client base, especially in private practice or healthcare environments.

What careers can you do with exercise physiology?

Exercise physiologists can pursue careers in clinical rehabilitation, sports performance, fitness training, research, and health promotion. They often work in hospitals, sports teams, fitness centers, or research institutions, utilizing skills in assessment, program design, and health education.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Exercise Psychologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Psychologist, you need expertise in psychology, exercise science, and behavioral change, generally supported by a degree in psychology or sports/exercise psychology and relevant licensure or certification. Familiarity with assessment tools, data analysis software, and intervention planning platforms is common in the role. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational abilities, and cultural sensitivity help build rapport and effectively guide clients through behavior modification. These skills ensure evidence-based interventions, foster client engagement, and promote lasting positive changes in physical and mental health.

What are exercise psychologists?

Exercise psychologists are professionals who study how physical activity affects mental health and overall well-being. They use psychological principles to help individuals improve their motivation, performance, and adherence to exercise programs. These specialists often work with people recovering from illness or injury, as well as athletes and the general public, to promote healthy lifestyle changes and address psychological barriers to physical activity.

How does an exercise psychologist typically collaborate with other healthcare professionals in a clinical setting?

Exercise psychologists often work closely with physicians, physical therapists, and dietitians to develop comprehensive wellness plans for patients. They contribute psychological expertise to address barriers such as motivation and adherence to exercise regimens, ensuring interventions are tailored to individual needs. Regular interdisciplinary meetings and shared progress reports are common, fostering a collaborative environment focused on holistic patient care. This teamwork not only enhances patient outcomes but also supports professional growth and learning within the role.

How to become an exercise psychologist?

To become an exercise psychologist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in psychology, exercise science, or a related field, followed by a master's or doctoral degree in exercise psychology or health psychology. Certification from organizations like the American Board of Sport Psychology or the Association for Applied Sport Psychology can enhance credentials, and strong knowledge of exercise physiology, behavioral change techniques, and counseling skills are essential for the role.

What can you do with an exercise psychology degree?

An exercise psychology degree prepares individuals to work as exercise psychologists, helping clients improve mental health, motivation, and behavior through physical activity. Graduates can work in clinical, sports, or community settings, often requiring certification or licensure, and utilize skills in counseling, assessment, and exercise programming.
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Psychologist jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Exercise Psychologist jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Exercise Psychologist jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Exercise Psychologist jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Exercise Psychologist jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Exercise Psychologist job openings:
Exercise Psychologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Psychologist job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,217 per year, or $43.4 per hour.
Clinical Exercise Physiologist (Per Diem)

Clinical Exercise Physiologist (Per Diem)

UNC Health Careers

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description

The UNC Hospitals Cardiac Rehab Program is a well-established, AACVPR-certified program located at the UNC Wellness Center in beautiful Meadowmont Village, Chapel Hill, NC. This setting offers a unique and uplifting environment where patients engage in rehabilitation within a bright, welcoming Clinical Fitness Area-an ideal setting to promote wellness!

We are seeking a Clinical Exercise Physiologist to join our collaborative, multidisciplinary team. This role provides clinical care and monitors patients participating in our cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation program, working closely with other healthcare professionals to support optimal patient outcomes.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Monitoring patients during rehab sessions
  • Conducting initial assessments
  • Developing, implementing, and updating exercise prescriptions
  • Conducting Graded Exercise Tests and Six-Minute Walk Tests
  • Reporting patient issues to the supervising physician
  • Providing patient education, counseling and ongoing support

Preferred qualifications for our role include:

  • Master's degree in clinical Exercise Physiology
  • 3-5 years of experience in cardiac and/or pulmonary rehabilitation

Your passion belongs at UNC Health. Join more than 56,000 teammates working together to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve across North Carolina.

Summary:
Plans, develops and delivers exercise program for both individuals and groups. Performs stress tests and other physical fitness tests to provide results and recommendations to care providers. Prepares exercise schedules and supervises exercise staff. Manages and makes recommendations for exercise equipment.


Responsibilities:
1. Develops Exercise Prescriptions Performs stress testing. Performs alternate functional assessments. Develops safe and effective exercise prescriptions. Meets with patients for initial assessment. Follows ACSM guidelines in designing exercise prescriptions. Coordinates appropriate GXT protocols. Obtains approval of prescription by Medical Director. Documents assessment findings and recommendations.
2. Maintains a Safe and Attractive Environment Monitors cardio equipment in clinical fitness area and Stress Test lab for performance, safety, and cleanliness. Advises Program Director regarding exercise equipment purchase and maintenance problems
3. Maintains Credentials Maintains certification in ACSM, BCLS/AED and ACLS. Participates in NCCRA meetings and other opportunities for continuing ed. Participates in monthly code practices.
4. Makes Assignments for Exercise Staff Prepares daily assignments to exercise staff. Prepares monthly work schedules for exercise staff and ensures appropriate staff to patient ratios. Supervises exercise staff. Keeps Program Director aware of problems with staffing or employees.
5. Monitors Patients During Exercise Assists patients and staff in implementing exercise prescriptions. Evaluates and modifies exercise prescriptions as needed. Recognizes potential medical problems and reports to MD or RN. Recognizes risky exercise situations and intervenes to ensure patent safety. Provides expertise to staff regarding exercise physiology and exercise psychology. Documents interventions with patients. Responds appropriately to medical emergencies. Monitors response to exercise such as rhythm strips, blood pressures, and O2 Sats. Reviews log sheets for compliance on a weekly basis.
6. Participates in Staff Meetings Regularly attends staff meetings. Presents patient exercise progress and evaluation results. Makes exercise related recommendations. Considers input from other staff members. Sends evaluation results and multidisciplinary recommendations to primary MD. Meets with assigned patients individually to review results and recommendations discussed at staff meetings. Attends Quarterly Wellness Staff Meetings. Participates in CQI.
7. Plans & Supervises Group Exercise for Rehab & Prevention Develops safe, age-appropriate, warm up and cool down routines. Re-evaluates and makes appropriate changes in group exercise routines. Considers group needs when planning activities and makes individual modifications if necessary. Shares exercise leadership duties with exercise staff.
8. Provides Patient Education Teaches Exercise for Life Class. Provides individual patient education on exercise topics as needed. Develops written exercise related materials. Maintains bulletin board in classroom.


Other Information

Other information:
Education Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, Kinesiology or related field.
Licensure/Certification Requirements:
Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) certification by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) within six (6) months from date of hire or Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist (RCEP) certification by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) within six (6) months from date of hire.
Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) certification within one (1) month from date of hire.
Professional Experience Requirements:
One (1) year of experience working in a clinical exercise setting.
Knowledge/Skills/and Abilities Requirements:


Job Details

Legal Employer: STATE

Entity: UNC Medical Center

Organization Unit: Cardiac Rehabilitation

Work Type: Per Diem

Standard Hours Per Week: 8.00

Salary Range: $23.24 - $33.41 per hour (Hiring Range)

Pay offers are determined by experience and internal equity

Work Assignment Type: Onsite

Work Schedule: Day Job

Location of Job: US:NC:Chapel Hill

Exempt From Overtime: Exempt: No


This is a State position employed by UNC Health Care System with UNC Health benefits. If, however, you are presently an employee of another North Carolina agency and currently participate in TSERS or the ORP, you will be eligible to continue participating in those plans at UNC Health.


Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran or political affiliation.
UNC Health makes reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as applicants and employees with disabilities. All interested applicants are invited to apply for career opportunities. Please email applicant.accommodations@unchealth.unc.edu if you need a reasonable accommodation to search and/or to apply for a career opportunity.

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