Fall 2026 Exercise Physiologist Intern

The Intern will assist in assessing the physical fitness of patients, who have a spinal cord injury (SCI), acquired brain injury (ABI), and/or other acute and chronic conditions, including wellness members, to determine current strength and endurance, and devise individualized exercise programs tailored to meet needs of specific goals

Job Responsibilities:

• Assisting in set up and break down of equipment for patient sessions.
• Assisting in supervision and instruction of fitness and wellness programs for special populations in a healthcare setting. 
• Performing fitness evaluations, developing short- and long-term goals and tracking progression of individuals in the program. 
• Developing individualized and specific exercise prescriptions for persons with SCI, ABI, and other neuromuscular conditions. 
• Providing submaximal exercise testing, metabolic testing, and functional strength testing.
• Administering consultations on safe and effective exercise within the guidelines established by governing bodies, such as ACSM and NSCA, for both able-bodied and special populations.
• Demonstrating and promoting healthy lifestyle choices and educating individuals on the benefits of physical activity and healthy eating.
• You are also responsible for promoting and maintaining a safe and clean environment and adhering to Shepherd Center’s standards of behavior.

Required Minimum Education: 

• Currently attending a post-secondary program
• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate exercise science or related major program at an accredited college or university (sports medicine, kinesiology, athletic training, etc.)
• Junior or senior student that has met their requirements to engage in an internship. Must be for school credit.

Required Minimum Certification:

• CPR certification.

​Required Minimum Experience:

• N/A

Required Minimum Skills:

• Communication
• Organization
• Attention to detail
• Self-motivated

​Preferred Qualifications:

• Nationally accredited fitness certification (ACSM, NSCA, CSCS, ACE, NASM)
• Previous experience with patients with Spinal Cord Injury, Traumatic Brain Injury Stroke, Concussion and Vestibular Disorders
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, organizational skills, and attention to detail

Physical Demands:

• Ability to and consistent with lifting 50 lbs or more.
• Repetitive lifting, moving, squatting, kneeling, and crawling physical requirements.

Working Conditions:  

• Some potential for exposure to blood and body fluids.

Housing/Stipend

• Housing or any form of compensation will not be provided.
• Students will be required to secure housing prior to starting an internship if they are not able to commute from their current residence.