ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Medical Exercise Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sports Physical Therapy

Exercise Specialist

Bothell, WA · On-site

Exercise Specialist Exercise Specialist - Outpatient Orthopedic & Sports Physical Therapy Location ... Prior experience in a medical or fitness setting preferred * Strong communication and interpersonal ...

Sports Physical Therapy

Exercise Specialist

Bellevue, WA · On-site

Exercise Specialist Exercise Specialist - Outpatient Orthopedic & Sports Physical Therapy Location ... Prior experience in a medical or fitness setting preferred * Strong communication and interpersonal ...

U.S. Physical Therapy

Exercise Specialist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Our Exercise Specialists Enjoy the following: * Competitive compensation: $18 - $21/hr depending on ... Prior medical clinic experience preferred but not required. We provide extensive clinical training ...

Sports Physical Therapy

Exercise Specialist

Ferndale, WA · On-site

Exercise Specialist Exercise Specialist - Outpatient Orthopedic & Sports Physical Therapy Location ... Prior experience in a medical or fitness setting preferred * Strong communication and interpersonal ...

U.S. Physical Therapy

Exercise Specialist

Manassas, VA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Our Exercise Specialists Enjoy the following : * Competitive compensation: $18 - $21/hr depending ... Prior medical clinic experience preferred but not required. We provide extensive clinical training ...

U.S. Physical Therapy

Exercise Specialist

Hamilton, VA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Our Exercise Specialists Enjoy the following : * Competitive compensation: $18 - $21/hr depending ... Prior medical clinic experience preferred but not required. We provide extensive clinical training ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHealthcare JobsHospital JobsWeight Loss Counselor JobsMedical Exercise Specialist Jobs

Medical Exercise Specialist information

See salary details

$14

$30

$51

How much do medical exercise specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical exercise specialist in the United States is $30.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $41.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a medical exercise specialist?

A Medical Exercise Specialist is a fitness professional trained to design and implement exercise programs for individuals with medical conditions, injuries, or chronic diseases. They work alongside healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective exercise tailored to each client's unique health needs. Their primary goal is to improve function, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life through therapeutic exercise. Medical Exercise Specialists commonly assist clients recovering from surgery, managing diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, or other health concerns. They bridge the gap between healthcare and fitness, providing supervised, evidence-based programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a medical exercise specialist?

A Medical Exercise Specialist needs a solid background in exercise science, anatomy, and chronic disease management, often supported by certification such as ACSM or ACE. Competence with assessment tools, fitness tracking software, and knowledge of medical documentation systems is crucial. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to motivate clients set top professionals apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are vital to safely designing effective exercise programs tailored to individuals with medical conditions, ensuring both safety and positive health outcomes.

How does a medical exercise specialist typically collaborate with healthcare providers to develop client programs?

Medical Exercise Specialists frequently work in tandem with physicians, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to design and implement safe, effective exercise programs for clients with medical conditions. This collaboration often involves interpreting physician referrals, communicating regularly about client progress, and adjusting exercise plans based on medical feedback. Building strong professional relationships and maintaining clear documentation are key to ensuring that client care is cohesive and aligned with medical recommendations. This interdisciplinary approach not only supports client outcomes but also enhances the specialist’s professional growth.

What is the difference between Medical Exercise Specialist vs Physical Therapist?

AspectMedical Exercise SpecialistPhysical Therapist
CredentialsCertification in medical exercise or related fieldsDoctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) license
Work EnvironmentClinics, gyms, rehab centers focusing on exercise therapyHospitals, clinics, outpatient rehab centers
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, fitness, wellness industriesHealthcare, rehabilitation services
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for rehab and exercise programsCompared for injury recovery and mobility improvement

The Medical Exercise Specialist focuses on designing and implementing exercise programs for clients with chronic conditions or recovery needs, often working in fitness or rehab settings. Physical Therapists are licensed healthcare professionals who diagnose and treat a wide range of physical impairments, often providing more comprehensive medical care. While both roles aim to improve physical health, the Physical Therapist has a broader scope and clinical authority.

Do you need a degree to be a Medical Exercise Specialist?

A degree is not always required to become a Medical Exercise Specialist, but many employers prefer candidates with a background in exercise science, kinesiology, or related fields. Certification from organizations like the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) or the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) is often necessary and can enhance job prospects. Practical experience and specialized training in medical or clinical exercise are also important for this role.

How to become a medical exercise specialist?

To become a medical exercise specialist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field, along with certification such as the Certified Medical Exercise Specialist (CMES) or similar credentials. Gaining experience in clinical or rehabilitation settings and developing knowledge of medical conditions and exercise programming are also important steps in this career path.
More about Medical Exercise Specialist jobs

What cities are hiring for Medical Exercise Specialist jobs?

Cities with the most Medical Exercise Specialist job openings:

What states have the most Medical Exercise Specialist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Medical Exercise Specialist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Medical Exercise Specialist jobs?

For Medical Exercise Specialist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Medical Exercise Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Medical Exercise Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,778 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Exercise Specialist

Manassas, VA • On-site

The Jackson Clinics Physical Therapy
See more jobs at The Jackson Clinics Physical Therapyexternal

$18 - $21/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Exercise Specialist

The Jackson Clinics is a physical therapist-owned outpatient physical therapy group committed to providing a level of care and a patient experience, unlike the "average physical therapy clinic." We provide care for our patients specific to their individual needs and presentations. We have an innovative treatment model that allows you to truly focus on each patient every visit and for patients to receive more individualized attention and care. Reach out to learn more about our "Complete Care Initiative," which is intended to help our patients fully recover, not just for the moment but for all the moments to come.

At The Jackson Clinics, we also believe that education makes a difference. That is why our new hire package includes a 2-week new hire orientation program.

Our Exercise Specialists Enjoy the following :

  • Competitive compensation: $18 - $21/hr depending on experience
  • Continuing education opportunities
  • Excellent benefits package, including 401k
  • Health, dental, and RX benefits
  • Paid time off, plus major holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Get to interact with a great team and support staff, and so much more!
Job Description

We are seeking a driven and energetic Exercise Specialist to join our team of highly skilled clinicians. This position is Part-Time WITH Benefits (30-39 hrs/wk).

Our clinics provide a fast-paced and highly rewarding work environment, in which you can grow, learn.

Our Ideal Candidate:

  • We believe in- hiring Exercise Specialists who strive to grow and develop their skills
  • Experts who are eager to acquire advanced clinical skills in orthopedics and sports medicine through our Continuing Education courses.
  • Exercise Specialists who enjoy our patient-centric model and having ample face time with each patient.
Qualifications
  • This position requires excellent customer service interaction with patients, clinicians, and staff
  • CSCS/NASM/ACSM/ISSA – required within 1 year of hire
  • Experience in personal training
  • A degree in Exercise Science and a kinesiology background preferred, but not required
  • Prior medical clinic experience preferred but not required. We provide extensive clinical training, including workshops and seminars.
  • Ability to multitask
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to build rapport with the patient

Apply