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Lead Exercise Physiologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

What the Exercise Physiologist will do: * Demonstrates knowledge and indications for different ... often lead to innovative solutions. Our dedication to diversity includes a unified workforce ...

Exercise Physiologist

Oak Park, IL · On-site

$25.20 - $35.60/hr

Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) Department plays a vital role in the assessment ... lead ECG and document any abnormalities • Reports critical findings promptly interpreting ...

Provides a full range of exercise physiology services, including assessment, treatment planning and ... Lead Essential Functions and Responsibilities (If classified in a Lead Role): 1. Assists in quality ...

Exercise Physiologist Work Arrangement: Regular Location: Mooresville, NC, US, 28117 Personnel Area ... Lead Process Improvement initiatives and benchmark responsibilities for program changes. Level II - ...

Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist Responsible for the provision of services for cardiac ... that lead to maintenance of healthy and social independence. Responsible for evaluating and ...

Exercise Physiologist

Providence, RI · On-site

$53K - $87K/yr

Performs 12-lead EKGs. Recognizes absolute and relative contraindications for stress testing as ... Knowledge of exercise physiology and exercise prescription. Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support ...

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Lead Exercise Physiologist information

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How much do lead exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead exercise physiologist in the United States is $28.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $33.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead exercise physiologist?

A Lead Exercise Physiologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in designing, implementing, and supervising exercise programs for individuals with various health conditions, often within a clinical or rehabilitation setting. They are responsible for leading a team of exercise physiologists, overseeing program development, monitoring patient progress, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols. The role often involves collaborating with physicians and other healthcare providers to develop personalized exercise prescriptions that promote recovery, improve health outcomes, and enhance quality of life.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead exercise physiologist?

To thrive as a Lead Exercise Physiologist, you need in-depth knowledge of exercise science, advanced assessment skills, and usually a degree in exercise physiology or a related field, often with ACSM or equivalent certification. Familiarity with exercise testing equipment, metabolic carts, ECG monitoring systems, and health data management software is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and motivational skills set you apart, enabling you to guide teams and support diverse client populations. These competencies ensure effective program design, safe exercise prescription, and optimal health outcomes for clients and staff.

What are some common challenges lead exercise physiologists face when managing a multidisciplinary team?

Lead Exercise Physiologists often coordinate care with physicians, physical therapists, and other health professionals, which requires strong communication and organizational skills. Balancing administrative duties with direct patient care can be challenging, as can ensuring consistency in exercise protocols across the team. Additionally, staying current with evolving research and integrating new best practices into the team's workflow is essential. Effective leadership and adaptability are key to overcoming these challenges and fostering a collaborative environment.

What is the difference between Lead Exercise Physiologist vs Exercise Physiologist?

AspectLead Exercise PhysiologistExercise Physiologist
CredentialsCertified Exercise Physiologist (CEP), advanced certifications often preferredCertified Exercise Physiologist (CEP), entry to mid-level certifications
Work EnvironmentSupervisory roles in clinics, hospitals, or rehab centersPatient care, assessment, and program development in similar settings
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, sports medicine, rehab facilities, often with leadership dutiesHealthcare, wellness programs, cardiac rehab, outpatient clinics

The main difference is that a Lead Exercise Physiologist typically holds a supervisory role with advanced certifications and oversees other physiologists, while an Exercise Physiologist focuses on patient assessment and program implementation. Both roles work in similar environments, but the lead position involves additional responsibilities and leadership duties.

Is exercise physiology in high demand?

Exercise physiologists are in growing demand due to increasing awareness of chronic disease management and the emphasis on preventive healthcare. Employment opportunities are expected to expand as healthcare providers and fitness facilities seek professionals with specialized knowledge in exercise testing, prescription, and rehabilitation. Certification and advanced skills can enhance job prospects in this field.

Is it hard to find a job as a lead exercise physiologist?

Finding a job as a lead exercise physiologist can be competitive, but opportunities are available in healthcare, rehabilitation, and fitness settings. Strong credentials, such as certification from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) or the American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP), and experience in clinical or fitness environments improve job prospects.

Is there a demand for lead exercise physiologists?

Lead exercise physiologists are in demand due to the growing focus on preventive healthcare and rehabilitation services. They often work in hospitals, clinics, or fitness centers, and certifications such as ACSM or NSCA can enhance job prospects. The healthcare industry’s emphasis on chronic disease management supports steady employment opportunities for this role.

Where do lead exercise physiologists make the most money?

Lead exercise physiologists tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a high cost of living and strong healthcare or sports industries, such as metropolitan areas or states with robust healthcare systems. Salaries are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the setting, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or sports organizations.
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What states have the most Lead Exercise Physiologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lead Exercise Physiologist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Lead Exercise Physiologist jobs?

For Lead Exercise Physiologist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lead Exercise Physiologist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,974 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Research Fellow - Exercise Physiology & Human Performance

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

University of Michigan
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


University Of Michigan rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should include the job posting ID 282005 and address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.
Mission Statement
Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally. Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.
Job Summary
The ASICS x Michigan Sport Innovation Center (AMSI) is a groundbreaking partnership dedicated to redefining the boundaries of athletic performance and sport science. By uniting ASICS? global leadership in footwear and apparel with the University of Michigan?s world-class research ecosystem, AMSI creates a unique environment for discovery?where art, science, and engineering converge to spark transformative breakthroughs.
AMSI, in collaboration with the High Performance Athlete Innovation Laboratory (HAIL), has an immediate opportunity for an exceptional Postdoctoral Fellow to join our team as a Lead Exercise Physiologist. This is a unique, split-responsibility role supports two high-impact pipelines: driving performance optimization and footwear energetics for AMSI, and supporting anNIH-funded study evaluating the interaction between aerobic exercise and bone health.
We are seeking an independent, highly motivated, scholarly investigator to administer lab- and field-based metabolic assessments, participate in athlete performance-based research studies, and work with a multi-disciplinary team of investigators and engineers and designers to translate high-level science into real-world innovation and clinical impact.
Responsibilities*
  • Lab Setup & Technical Management: Lead the technical setup, integration, calibration, and routine troubleshooting of advanced physiology equipment. This includes Cosmed metabolic carts/indirect calorimetry (Quark, K5), wireless 12-lead ECG systems, lactate testing, and other relevant exercise physiology equipment
  • Data Collection & Analysis: Collect and analyze exercise testing data in-lab and in-field with a heavy emphasis on distance running. Execute maximum and sub-maximum exercise protocols (VO2max, threshold testing, running economy testing) across elite athletes and research cohorts. Handle blood sampling testing including lactate (required) and phlebotomy/blood draw (preferred) processing.
  • Dissemination and Translation: Author high-impact manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, present research findings at national/international professional conferences, and translate complex scientific data into actionable insights for corporate design partners and federal grant reporting.
  • Mentorship & Project Operations: Oversee the day-to-day project and operational workflows. Supervise, mentor, and review the work of undergraduate and graduate students working on AMSI and NIH projects.

Required Qualifications*
  • Education: Ph.D. in Kinesiology, Exercise Physiology, Clinical Physiology, or a closely related discipline.
  • Expertise in Human Energetics: Extensive hands-on experience independently executing metabolic testing, indirect calorimetry calibration, and advanced data processing ( kinetics, substrate oxidation formulas).
  • Clinical Monitoring Skills: Complete competency in running, reading, and evaluating 12-lead Electrocardiograms (ECG/EKG) during maximal exertion, sub-maximum exercise testing, and resting metabolic testing.
  • Autonomy: Proven ability to operate with a high degree of independence, solve complex technical/equipment problems without direct supervision, and manage multiple study timelines concurrently.
  • Scientific Communication: A strong peer-reviewed publication footprint and demonstrated experience in abstract and manuscript preparation.
  • Passion for Sport & Performance Innovation: A deep, intrinsic passion for sports, athletic culture, and human performance science. The ideal candidate must be highly driven by real-world athletic outcomes, showing a genuine motivation to help athletes optimize their physiology and achieve their highest competitive potential while seeing their research directly translate into cutting-edge product development.

Desired Qualifications*
  • Phlebotomy Experience: Active certification or clear demonstrated experience with venipuncture/phlebotomy.
  • Clinical Certifications: Active certification as an ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP), Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist (RCEP) or equivalent clinical exercise credential.

Why Join Michigan Medicine?
Michigan Medicine is one of the largest health care complexes in the world and has been the site of many groundbreaking medical and technological advancements since the opening of the U-M Medical School in 1850. Michigan Medicine is comprised of over 30,000 employees and our vision is to attract, inspire, and develop outstanding people in medicine, sciences, and healthcare to become one of the world?s most distinguished academic health systems. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. Work at Michigan Medicine and become a victor for the greater good.
What Benefits can you Look Forward to?
  • Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage effective on your very first day
  • 2:1 Match on retirement savings

Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .
Additional Information
The position is available immediately with compensation adhering to the NIH stipend guidelines.
Contact Information
Questions about the position should be directed to:
Ken Kozloff, PhD
Steven A. Goldstein Collegiate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery
Co-Director, ASICS x Michigan Sport Innovation Center
Co-Director, University of Michigan Human Performance & Sport Science Center
[email protected]
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
282005
Working Title
Research Fellow - Exercise Physiology & Human Performance
Job Title
RESEARCH FELLOW
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Exempt
Organizational Group
Medical School
Department
MM Orthopaedic Surgery
Posting Begin/End Date
8/20/2026 - 9/20/2026
Career Interest
Research Fellows

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About University of Michigan

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Michigan (U-M), based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is one of America's most esteemed institutions in higher education. Established in 1817, it presides in the industry of education and research, providing a range of services including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. Complementing this is an extensive research activity that has significantly contributed to various fields, from healthcare to engineering, humanities to sports. Upholding its mission "to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values", U-M consistently ranks among the top universities globally, a testament to its tradition of excellence in learning and research, and a deep commitment to innovation and discovery.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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