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Exercise Testing Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Demonstrate working knowledge of all aspects of fitness testing. QUALIFICATIONS * Preferred Bachelor's Degree Exercise/Health related field * Required High School Diploma/GED * 1 year Exercise ...

Demonstrate working knowledge of all aspects of fitness testing. QUALIFICATIONS * Preferred Bachelor's Degree Exercise/Health related field * Required High School Diploma/GED * 1 year Exercise ...

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Exercise Testing information

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How much do exercise testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise testing in Chicago, IL is $29.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.30 and $34.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Exercise Testing job?

An Exercise Testing job involves conducting fitness and medical assessments to evaluate a person's cardiovascular and respiratory response to physical activity. Professionals in this role typically work in healthcare, sports science, or rehabilitation settings, using specialized equipment to measure heart rate, oxygen consumption, and other physiological parameters. They collaborate with doctors, physiologists, or trainers to interpret results and provide recommendations for health improvement or athletic performance. Strong knowledge of physiology, exercise science, and medical protocols is essential for success in this field.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in Exercise Testing?

A typical day in Exercise Testing involves preparing clients or patients for stress tests, conducting and monitoring exercise protocols, and collecting physiological data such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen consumption. You will interpret test results, document findings, and often communicate outcomes to physicians or other healthcare providers. The role requires close interaction with both patients and multidisciplinary teams, meaning strong collaboration and communication are key to success. Many professionals in this field work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, or specialized labs, supporting both diagnostic and preventive healthcare.

What jobs pay you to exercise?

Exercise testing jobs, such as exercise physiologists or fitness trainers, often pay individuals to perform physical activities as part of health assessments or training programs. These roles typically require certifications, knowledge of exercise science, and working in gyms, clinics, or research settings where physical activity is central to the job tasks.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In exercise testing, high-paying roles such as specialized fitness consultants or sports performance coaches can earn around $10,000 per month, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and a strong client base. These positions often require expertise in exercise science, personal training, or related fields, but may not always require a formal degree if skills and reputation are established.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Exercise Testing position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Exercise Testing, you need a solid background in exercise physiology, health sciences, or a related field, often supplemented by clinical experience and relevant certifications such as ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist or similar. Familiarity with stress testing protocols, ECG machines, metabolic carts, and other cardiac or pulmonary assessment tools is essential. Excellent attention to detail, interpersonal communication, and analytical skills are important soft skills for accurate data collection and patient interaction. These abilities ensure that you can safely conduct reliable tests, interpret results, and provide high-quality care to patients in healthcare or fitness settings.

How to become a certified exercise specialist?

To become a certified exercise specialist, individuals typically need to complete a relevant degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field, and obtain certification from recognized organizations such as the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) or the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Certification requires passing an exam and maintaining continuing education credits to stay current in the field. Practical experience and knowledge of exercise programming and health assessment are also important.

Is it worth becoming an exercise physiologist?

Exercise physiologists assess and develop fitness and rehabilitation programs, often working in healthcare, fitness, or sports settings. The profession typically requires a bachelor's degree and certification, with job growth driven by increasing health awareness and chronic disease management. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in health sciences and helping others improve their physical well-being.
What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Testing jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Exercise Testing jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Exercise Testing job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,752 per year, or $29.2 per hour.
Exercise Physiologist- Part Time Days

Exercise Physiologist- Part Time Days

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare

Lake Forest, IL

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 21 days ago


Northwestern Medicine rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 383 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 875 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Company Description

At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better health care, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. We pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, our goal is to take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?

Job Description

The Exercise Physiologist reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

  • A competent, licensed clinical professional who administers care to cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation patients in the Phase II Outpatient Setting. Effectively interacts with patient, significant others, and other health team members, while providing care within the scope of his/her training. Performs stress testing as ordered by the physician. Also performs other cardiology procedures within the department: EKG, Event & Holter Monitor procedures.

Responsibilities:

  • Uses organizational and unit/department resources efficiently.
  • Manages work schedule efficiently, completing tasks and assignments on time.
  • Contributes to opportunities and processes for continuous improvement.
  • Participates in efforts to reduce costs, streamline work processes, improve and grow services we provide
  • Performs stress test procedures per policy & procedure.
  • Performs EKG procedures: 12 lead EKG, EKG Rhythm Strip, Signal Average EKG, Holter & Event Monitor testing.
  • Interprets 12 lead EKG.
  • Performs patient screening / assessment within scope of position.
  • Communicates patient status & critical results to supervising/interpreting physician.
  • Performs all aspects of patient care in a manner which optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of medications and their correct administration based on age of the patient and their clinical condition.
  • Identifies learning needs, abilities, preferences and readiness; also identifies support systems, coping mechanisms and barriers to learning. Makes referral for follow up as appropriate, and as evidenced by chart review.
  • Explains procedures, therapies and treatments to patient and family, evaluates and documents patient and family response to teaching. Uses appropriate resources to provide education.
  • Meets current standards and policies for documentation. Provides documentation that is timely, accurate, up to date, complete and legible
  • Collaborates with the physician and team to review and evaluate the plan of care.
  • Communicates effectively and works cooperatively with other team members. Has respect for and understanding of other clinical disciplines. (As evidenced by STAR Citations, BRAVO Acknowledgements, Thank You notes).
  • Coordinates the care of the patient by including members of the health care team and other departments to plan, deliver, and evaluate patient care.
  • Maintains current knowledge base in cardiac diagnostic testing
  • Fosters learning experiences of nursing students, float pool staff, and new team members.
  • Participates in professional growth and development activities and shares knowledge from continuing education programs with co-workers
  • Performs other duties as assigned
Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science
  • BLS Certified
  • ACLS within 90 days of hire

Preferred:

  • 1 year Stress Testing Experience
  • Master’s degree in Exercise Science Physiology

Additional Information

Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.

Background Check

Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check.  Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person. 

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.

Sign-on Bonus Eligibility (if sign-on bonus offered for position): Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family. 


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