1

Exercise Tech Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Exercise Tech information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$23

$31

How much do exercise tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise tech in Chicago, IL is $23.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $26.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges exercise techs face when working with diverse patient populations?

Exercise Techs often work with patients of varying ages, fitness levels, and medical backgrounds, which can present unique challenges in tailoring exercise programs to meet individual needs. Adapting routines for patients with mobility issues, chronic illnesses, or post-surgical limitations requires a strong understanding of anatomy and safe exercise modifications. Additionally, effective communication and motivation skills are essential to ensure patient engagement and adherence to prescribed regimens. Collaborating closely with physical therapists and other healthcare professionals helps Exercise Techs provide the safest and most effective care.

What is the difference between Exercise Tech vs Physical Therapy Aide?

AspectExercise TechPhysical Therapy Aide
CertificationsCPR certification, sometimes additional fitness or health certificationsCPR certification, basic healthcare training
Work EnvironmentGyms, fitness centers, rehabilitation facilitiesPhysical therapy clinics, hospitals, outpatient centers
Job DutiesAssist with exercise programs, set up equipment, monitor clientsAssist therapists, prepare treatment areas, help patients with exercises
Industry UsageFitness and rehabilitation industryHealthcare and physical therapy industry

Exercise Techs focus on assisting clients with fitness and rehabilitation exercises in gyms and rehab centers, often requiring fitness certifications. Physical Therapy Aides support therapists in clinical settings, helping with patient care and treatment preparation. While both roles involve assisting with exercises, Exercise Techs are more fitness-oriented, whereas Physical Therapy Aides work within healthcare environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise tech?

To thrive as an Exercise Tech, you need knowledge of exercise science, anatomy, and basic patient care, typically supported by a degree or certification in exercise physiology or a related field. Familiarity with fitness assessment tools, rehabilitation equipment, and sometimes CPR or first aid certification is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, motivation, and the ability to communicate effectively help build rapport with clients and multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure safe, effective exercise programming and support positive outcomes for patients or clients in clinical and fitness settings.

What is an exercise tech?

Exercise Technicians, often called Exercise Techs, are allied health professionals who assist with the implementation and supervision of exercise programs, typically under the direction of exercise physiologists or physical therapists. They work in settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, fitness facilities, and sports clinics. Their responsibilities may include monitoring patients during exercise, recording vital signs, assisting with equipment, and ensuring safety during physical activity. Exercise Techs play a vital role in helping individuals recover from injuries, improve their fitness, or manage chronic health conditions through exercise.

How much do exercise technicians make?

Exercise technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $30,000 to $40,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often work in fitness centers, hospitals, or rehabilitation facilities and may need CPR or other health-related certifications to qualify for higher pay.
Infographic showing various Exercise Tech job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,883 per year, or $23 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist - Cardio Diagnostics

Advocate Health

Hazel Crest, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Advocate Aurora Health rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 778 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

157th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Experience Required:
  • Experience in stress test preferred. Needs to be comfortable with ECG reading.

Major Responsibilities:

  • Interprets physiological data from stress tests for determination of individualized exercise prescription. Plans and implements treatment programs based upon patient evaluation. Modifies exercise prescription based on cardiac symptomatology, signs and symptoms of exercise intolerance, or musculoskeletal, orthopedic, and/or accessory medical problems.
  • Works with physicians to determine program eligibility, progress, and timing of progression to unmonitored home program or Phase III participation.
  • Establishes and presents a coordinated health education program for patients on exercise and risk factor reduction. Participates in family and patient conferences as necessary and works closely with cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, physician assistants, and medical staff regarding patient physical status and rehabilitation program.
  • Promotes referral to rehabilitation program by developing a sound working relationship with referral sources - physicians and nurses.
  • Places electrodes on patient for various cardiac monitors and tests.
  • Counsels patient in home activity and exercise programs and purchase of exercise equipment.
  • Assists in the resolution of cardiac emergencies or symptoms of exercise intolerance. Assists the in-program planning and implementation.
  • May serve as a mentor for staff working for certification by American College of Sports Medicine in Exercise Technologist or Specialist category. Serves as a hospital consultant in area of exercise physiology. Participates in appropriate professional organizations for personal development.
  • Assists in monitoring outpatient cardiac rehabilitation exercise groups.
  • Performs various patient positioning and transporting duties, which require lifting and pushing/pulling, while utilizing proper technique.
  • Must be able to demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served. Must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to his/her age-specific needs, and to provide the care needed as described in the department's policies and procedures. Age-specific information is developed further in the departmental job standards.


Licensure, Registration, and/or Certification Required:

  • Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers certification issued by the American Heart Association (AHA) needs to be obtained within 6 months unless department leader has determined it is not required.


Education Required:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Physiology, or
  • Bachelor's Degree in Kinesiology.


Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

  • Must be able to make independent decisions and be able to deal with complex clinical situations as presented by many cardiac patients.
  • Good communication skills and effective team functioning is required.


Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

  • Must be able to sit, stand, walk, lift, squat, bend, twist, crawl, kneel, climb, and reach above shoulders at various times in each workday.
  • Must be able to:
  • lift up to 50 lbs. from floor to waist.
  • lift up to 10 lbs. from waist to overhead.
  • lift and carry up to 40 lbs. at waist height a reasonable distance.
  • Must be able to:
  • push/pull with 30 lbs. of force.
  • perform a sliding transfer of 150 lbs. with a second person present.
  • Must be able to use hands with fine manipulation when using computer keyboard and testing equipment.
  • Must have functional vision, speech, and hearing.
  • Potential for exposure to mechanical, electrical, and chemical hazards and therefore must be able to take precautions and wear protective clothing as necessary.
  • May be exposed to blood or body fluids and thus appropriate protective clothing must be worn as necessary (gloves, mask, etc.).


This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.

#LI- ExersiceScience

#LI- Cardiacdiagnostic

#LI- StressTest

#LI- ADVOCATEHEALTH


What Advocate Aurora Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Advocate Health logo

About Advocate Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Advocate Healthcare, based in Oak Lawn, Illinois, United States, is a leading figure in the health care industry. Accessible via their official website, 'advocatehealth.com', this organization provides a wide variety of medical services and treatment options. Founded in 1995 through a merger of Evangelical Health Systems Corporation and Lutheran General HealthSystem, Advocate Healthcare has grown exponentially over the years. Now, it operates more than 400 sites of care, including 12 hospitals that encompass 11 acute care hospitals, the state’s largest integrated children’s network, five Level I trauma centers, and three Level II trauma centers. Upholding their values of equality, compassion, excellence, partnership and stewardship, Advocate Healthcare's mission is centered on building lifelong relationships with patients by delivering the best health outcomes and highest level of service through an integrated approach to care and wellness.

Industry

Hospitals and health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US