Exercise Physiologist - First Responders

Position Title: Clinical Exercise Physiologist – First Responder Occupational Health

Company: Reserve Health

About Reserve Health

At Reserve Health, we specialize in occupational health dedicated to those who serve and protect our community. As a key partner to the City of Charlotte, we provide specialized medical evaluations and physiological testing for the Charlotte Fire Department (CFD), Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), and other regional first responders. We are looking for a dedicated Clinical Exercise Physiologist to join our multidisciplinary team and directly impact the health, safety, and readiness of our local heroes.

Position Overview

As a Clinical Exercise Physiologist at Reserve Health, you will lead the screening, administration, and interpretation of cardiopulmonary fitness testing and spirometry. Working directly with police officers and firefighters, you will evaluate cardiac and pulmonary function, run stress testing protocols, analyze 12-lead ECGs, and deliver actionable health data to help safely clear and optimize our first responders for duty.

Key Responsibilities

• Cardiopulmonary & Stress Testing: Conduct advanced cardiopulmonary fitness tests, exercise stress testing (treadmill), and resting/dynamic 12-lead ECG monitoring and interpretation.


• Pulmonary Screening: Administer NIOSH-compliant spirometry assessments to evaluate pulmonary health.


• Patient Assessment & Risk Stratification: Abstract medical records from the EMR, review health histories, measure vital signs, and identify contraindications prior to testing.


• Monitoring & Safety: Continuously monitor REST and STRESS vitals (blood pressure, heart rate/rhythms, SpO2) and recognize physiologic signs of cardiopulmonary decompensation; execute emergency support (BCLS) if needed.


• Equipment & Room Management: Calibrate, maintain, and sanitize specialized testing equipment and rooms in accordance with OSHA and practice infection control standards.


• Team Collaboration: Work alongside a multidisciplinary medical team, participate in provider reviews, and assist with patient care coordination and team orientation as needed.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology or Kinesiology required; Master’s degree preferred.


• Experience: Minimum of 3 months in a clinical rotation, internship, or professional clinical setting.


• Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in 12-lead ECG interpretation (resting and stress) and treadmill protocol selection.


• Experience with NIOSH-compliant spirometry testing.


• Solid understanding of medical terminology, EMR usage, and HIPAA/OSHA compliance.

• Certifications: Current BCLS/CPR certification required. ACSM-CEP or similar clinical certification preferred.


• Core Competencies: Exceptional interpersonal skills, strong attention to detail, and a commitment to serving a diverse patient population within an inclusive environment.

Why Join Us?

• Mission-Driven Work: Serve the firefighters and police officers who keep Charlotte safe.


• Predictable Schedule: Monday - Friday; Enjoy occupational health hours with greater work-life balance compared to typical hospital shifts.


• Collaborative Culture: Work in a supportive, interdisciplinary environment that values diversity, professional growth, and high-quality patient care.