OPT Clinical Exercise Physiologist Jobs
Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs on OPT are available at hospitals, cardiac rehab centers, and university wellness programs. Most roles require ACSM-CEP or RCEP certification alongside your exercise science degree. With 12 months of OPT authorization, and up to 36 months on STEM OPT, you have real runway to build clinical experience and pursue H-1B visa sponsorship.
Find OPT Clinical Exercise Physiologist JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 72+ Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs
See all 72+ Clinical Exercise Physiologist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Clinical Exercise Physiologist roles.
Get Access To All JobsDepartment:
36115 Atrium Health Pineville - Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Status:
Part time
Benefits Eligible:
Yes
Hours Per Week:
24
Schedule Details/Additional Information:
Monday through Friday days (variable days). Will be three 8-hour shifts. No weekends. Closed on holidays that Physician's offices are closed.
Pay Range:
$28.55 - $42.85
Atrium Health Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a multidisciplinary program dedicated to improving the health, function, and quality of life of individuals with chronic respiratory conditions. The team provides evidence-based exercise training, patient education, breathing techniques, and disease management strategies to help patients increase endurance, reduce symptoms, and achieve greater independence. The Lead Exercise Physiologist plays a key role in program coordination, clinical leadership, and the development of individualized exercise plans while collaborating closely with physicians, respiratory therapists, nurses, registered dietitians, and rehabilitation professionals to deliver exceptional patient-centered care.
Job Description:
The position is responsible for evaluating and treating complex patient populations across both inpatient and outpatient settings, following a referral from appropriate medical personnel. The role involves developing tailored exercise prescriptions for a diverse range of clinical populations, utilizing clinical judgment and adhering to each patient's individualized treatment plan. In addition to direct patient care, the position serves as a resource and mentor to other staff members, providing guidance and support to foster professional growth and ensure high standards of care.
Major Responsibilities:
- Evaluate complex physiological data to design and implement individualized exercise prescriptions in accordance with established clinical guidelines
- Modify exercise prescriptions based on patient response, clinical presentation, and documented medical or musculoskeletal conditions
- Lead the planning, development, implementation, promotion, and evaluation of exercise programming
- Monitor exercise sessions and group activities to ensure safety, quality, and adherence to program standards
- Provide training, orientation, and ongoing work direction to exercise staff; serve as a clinical resource and professional role model
- Assign and review staff work; monitor productivity and ensure appropriate staffing levels
- Participate in recruitment and selection activities; support staff development; provide performance feedback and assist with resolution of employee concerns
Licensure, Registration, and/or Certification Required:
- Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP) or Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), based on area of responsibility and scope of practice. Roles focused on non-acute, preventive, or wellness-based programming may be filled by an ACSM Certified Exercise physiologist (EP)
- Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers
Education Required:
- Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent knowledge) in Exercise Physiology or Kinesiology
Experience Required:
- 2-3 years of relevant clinical experience
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:
- Excellent communication skills to work effectively with physicians, patients, and other staff members
- Excellent organization, decision making, and problem solving skills
- Strong computer skills
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
- Must be able to give and receive verbal communications on a continuous basis. Must be able to read written communications on a continuous basis both hard copy and on a computer screen. Able to compose written communications frequently. Able to lift and carry objects weighing 25 pounds or less occasionally. Able to perform motor skills as reaching out/up. Frequent periods of walking, standing, sitting. Infrequently squatting, twisting, and bending.
Preferred Job Requirements:
- Masters’ degree in Health and Exercise Science or related field
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.
Our Commitment to You:
Advocate Health offers a comprehensive suite of Total Rewards: benefits and well-being programs, competitive compensation, generous retirement offerings, programs that invest in your career development and so much more – so you can live fully at and away from work, including:
Compensation
- Base compensation listed within the listed pay range based on factors such as qualifications, skills, relevant experience, and/or training
- Premium pay such as shift, on call, and more based on a teammate's job
- Incentive pay for select positions
- Opportunity for annual increases based on performance
Benefits and more
- Paid Time Off programs
- Health and welfare benefits such as medical, dental, vision, life, and Short- and Long-Term Disability
- Flexible Spending Accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses
- Family benefits such as adoption assistance and paid parental leave
- Defined contribution retirement plans with employer match and other financial wellness programs
- Educational Assistance Program
Note: Eligibility for programs listed above may depend on your FTE or status (e.g., full-time, part-time, per diem, temporary, etc.); please ask a Recruiter for more information during an interview.
About Advocate Health
Advocate Health is the third-largest nonprofit, integrated health system in the United States, created from the combination of Advocate Aurora Health and Atrium Health. Providing care under the names Advocate Health Care in Illinois; Atrium Health in the Carolinas, Georgia and Alabama; and Aurora Health Care in Wisconsin, Advocate Health is a national leader in clinical innovation, health outcomes, consumer experience and value-based care. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Advocate Health services nearly 6 million patients and is engaged in hundreds of clinical trials and research studies, with Wake Forest University School of Medicine serving as the academic core of the enterprise. It is nationally recognized for its expertise in cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, pediatrics and rehabilitation, as well as organ transplants, burn treatments and specialized musculoskeletal programs. Advocate Health employs 155,000 teammates across 69 hospitals and over 1,000 care locations, and offers one of the nation’s largest graduate medical education programs with over 2,000 residents and fellows across more than 200 programs. Committed to providing equitable care for all, Advocate Health provides more than $6 billion in annual community benefits.
Department:
36115 Atrium Health Pineville - Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Status:
Part time
Benefits Eligible:
Yes
Hours Per Week:
24
Schedule Details/Additional Information:
Monday through Friday days (variable days). Will be three 8-hour shifts. No weekends. Closed on holidays that Physician's offices are closed.
Pay Range:
$28.55 - $42.85
Atrium Health Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a multidisciplinary program dedicated to improving the health, function, and quality of life of individuals with chronic respiratory conditions. The team provides evidence-based exercise training, patient education, breathing techniques, and disease management strategies to help patients increase endurance, reduce symptoms, and achieve greater independence. The Lead Exercise Physiologist plays a key role in program coordination, clinical leadership, and the development of individualized exercise plans while collaborating closely with physicians, respiratory therapists, nurses, registered dietitians, and rehabilitation professionals to deliver exceptional patient-centered care.
Job Description:
The position is responsible for evaluating and treating complex patient populations across both inpatient and outpatient settings, following a referral from appropriate medical personnel. The role involves developing tailored exercise prescriptions for a diverse range of clinical populations, utilizing clinical judgment and adhering to each patient's individualized treatment plan. In addition to direct patient care, the position serves as a resource and mentor to other staff members, providing guidance and support to foster professional growth and ensure high standards of care.
Major Responsibilities:
- Evaluate complex physiological data to design and implement individualized exercise prescriptions in accordance with established clinical guidelines
- Modify exercise prescriptions based on patient response, clinical presentation, and documented medical or musculoskeletal conditions
- Lead the planning, development, implementation, promotion, and evaluation of exercise programming
- Monitor exercise sessions and group activities to ensure safety, quality, and adherence to program standards
- Provide training, orientation, and ongoing work direction to exercise staff; serve as a clinical resource and professional role model
- Assign and review staff work; monitor productivity and ensure appropriate staffing levels
- Participate in recruitment and selection activities; support staff development; provide performance feedback and assist with resolution of employee concerns
Licensure, Registration, and/or Certification Required:
- Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP) or Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), based on area of responsibility and scope of practice. Roles focused on non-acute, preventive, or wellness-based programming may be filled by an ACSM Certified Exercise physiologist (EP)
- Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers
Education Required:
- Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent knowledge) in Exercise Physiology or Kinesiology
Experience Required:
- 2-3 years of relevant clinical experience
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:
- Excellent communication skills to work effectively with physicians, patients, and other staff members
- Excellent organization, decision making, and problem solving skills
- Strong computer skills
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
- Must be able to give and receive verbal communications on a continuous basis. Must be able to read written communications on a continuous basis both hard copy and on a computer screen. Able to compose written communications frequently. Able to lift and carry objects weighing 25 pounds or less occasionally. Able to perform motor skills as reaching out/up. Frequent periods of walking, standing, sitting. Infrequently squatting, twisting, and bending.
Preferred Job Requirements:
- Masters’ degree in Health and Exercise Science or related field
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.
Our Commitment to You:
Advocate Health offers a comprehensive suite of Total Rewards: benefits and well-being programs, competitive compensation, generous retirement offerings, programs that invest in your career development and so much more – so you can live fully at and away from work, including:
Compensation
- Base compensation listed within the listed pay range based on factors such as qualifications, skills, relevant experience, and/or training
- Premium pay such as shift, on call, and more based on a teammate's job
- Incentive pay for select positions
- Opportunity for annual increases based on performance
Benefits and more
- Paid Time Off programs
- Health and welfare benefits such as medical, dental, vision, life, and Short- and Long-Term Disability
- Flexible Spending Accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses
- Family benefits such as adoption assistance and paid parental leave
- Defined contribution retirement plans with employer match and other financial wellness programs
- Educational Assistance Program
Note: Eligibility for programs listed above may depend on your FTE or status (e.g., full-time, part-time, per diem, temporary, etc.); please ask a Recruiter for more information during an interview.
About Advocate Health
Advocate Health is the third-largest nonprofit, integrated health system in the United States, created from the combination of Advocate Aurora Health and Atrium Health. Providing care under the names Advocate Health Care in Illinois; Atrium Health in the Carolinas, Georgia and Alabama; and Aurora Health Care in Wisconsin, Advocate Health is a national leader in clinical innovation, health outcomes, consumer experience and value-based care. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Advocate Health services nearly 6 million patients and is engaged in hundreds of clinical trials and research studies, with Wake Forest University School of Medicine serving as the academic core of the enterprise. It is nationally recognized for its expertise in cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, pediatrics and rehabilitation, as well as organ transplants, burn treatments and specialized musculoskeletal programs. Advocate Health employs 155,000 teammates across 69 hospitals and over 1,000 care locations, and offers one of the nation’s largest graduate medical education programs with over 2,000 residents and fellows across more than 200 programs. Committed to providing equitable care for all, Advocate Health provides more than $6 billion in annual community benefits.
See all 72+ OPT Clinical Exercise Physiologist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Clinical Exercise Physiologist Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Clinical Exercise Physiologist
Target hospital systems and large health networks
Large hospital systems like academic medical centers and integrated health networks are more likely to have HR infrastructure for sponsoring work visas. Smaller outpatient clinics rarely have experience navigating H-1B visa petitions for allied health roles.
Get your ACSM-CEP certification before you graduate
The ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist credential signals clinical readiness and satisfies many job postings' licensure requirements. Employers are more willing to invest in sponsorship when you arrive credentialed, not when they have to wait for you to test.
Frame your OPT timeline clearly in interviews
Tell employers upfront how much OPT time you have remaining and whether you qualify for STEM OPT extension. Hiring managers in clinical settings appreciate transparency so they can plan sponsorship timelines around your authorization window.
Prioritize roles tied to a specific STEM CIP code
Exercise physiology and kinesiology programs frequently qualify for STEM OPT under approved CIP codes. Confirm your degree's CIP code with your DSO before applying so you can confidently tell employers you're eligible for 24 additional months of work authorization.
Seek out roles in cardiac rehab and pulmonary programs
Cardiac and pulmonary rehab positions sit inside hospital billing structures, making H-1B sponsorship more straightforward than community wellness roles. These departments also have documented specialty occupation precedent, which strengthens your eventual H-1B petition.
Connect with exercise physiologists who navigated sponsorship
Professionals in your field who have gone through H-1B sponsorship can tell you which employers followed through and which ones stalled. Those firsthand accounts are more reliable than job postings and can save you from pursuing dead ends.
Clinical Exercise Physiologist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Clinical Exercise Physiologist role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B purposes?
Clinical Exercise Physiologist positions generally qualify as specialty occupations because they typically require at minimum a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a closely related field. Roles embedded in hospital-based cardiac rehab or clinical research settings have the strongest precedent. Positions at general wellness centers may face more scrutiny, so the clinical setting matters when building your H-1B case.
Can I work as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist on OPT without ACSM certification?
You can begin applying on OPT without the ACSM-CEP, but most hospital and clinical employers list it as a required or preferred credential. Some employers will hire a candidate who is certification-eligible and set a target date, but that flexibility is less common at large health systems. Sitting for the exam before your job search puts you in a significantly stronger position.
Where can I find Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs that are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 students on OPT and filters roles by visa sponsorship compatibility, so you are not sorting through listings that will not consider work-authorized candidates. Browsing on Migrate Mate saves time and surfaces employers who have actively hired international candidates in clinical and exercise physiology roles before.
Does my exercise science degree qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on the specific CIP code your program was classified under at your institution. Exercise Physiology (CIP 31.0505) and Kinesiology (CIP 31.0505 and related codes) frequently appear on the STEM Designated Degree Program list, but you must verify with your DSO. If your degree qualifies, you can apply for a 24-month extension, giving you up to 36 months of total OPT authorization.
What happens to my OPT status if a clinical employer puts my start date on hold?
Your OPT clock runs from your authorized start date regardless of whether you are actively working. A delayed start does not pause your authorization period. If you are in a gap between positions, you are permitted up to 90 days of unemployment on standard OPT, or 150 days total if you have an approved STEM OPT extension. Contact your DSO immediately if a start date shifts significantly.