Nursing & Midwifery

Cardiac Physiologist

SOC 29-2031.00 · ESCO 3211 · OSCA 263932

REA INV ART SOC ENT CON This role See your match →

Role snapshot

Overview

Performs and interprets a wide range of diagnostic heart tests, including electrocardiograms (ECGs), echocardiograms, and cardiac stress tests. This role is crucial in helping cardiologists accurately diagnose and manage various cardiac conditions. Cardiac physiologists operate sophisticated monitoring equipment, analyse data, and report their findings, while also providing essential support and reassurance to patients throughout their procedures.

Directly contributes to the early and accurate diagnosis of heart conditions, enabling timely treatment and improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Plays a vital role in cardiac disease management.

On the job

  • Perform and analyse 12-lead ECGs and set up Holter monitoring devices.
  • Conduct comprehensive transthoracic echocardiograms and stress echocardiograms.
  • Set up and manage cardiac stress tests, monitoring patient physiological responses.
  • Prepare detailed technical reports of findings for review and interpretation by cardiologists.
  • Provide patient education and emotional support during diagnostic procedures, explaining tests and addressing concerns.
Cardiac Physiologist at work

Tools & technology

Echocardiography machines (e.g., Philips, GE, Siemens)ECG machines and Holter monitorsCardiac stress test equipment (treadmills, ergometers)Pacemaker/ICD programmers (in some specialized roles)Electronic health record (EHR) systems

Average salary

$85K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$65K Bottom 10%
$110K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

A Bachelor's degree in Cardiac Physiology, Clinical Physiology, or a related science field, or an advanced diploma in cardiovascular technology is typically required.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Cardiac Physiologist
Cardiac Sonography Supervisor

CURRENT ROLE

Cardiac Physiologist

Nursing & Midwifery

ADJACENT MOVES

Clinical Research Coordinator
Junior Cardiac Physiologist
Student Cardiac Physiologist
Medical Assistant Cardiology

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

I

investigative · RIC

People who enjoy working with specialized medical equipment, meticulously analyzing diagnostic data, and following structured clinical protocols to support patient care often thrive in this role.

Personality characteristics

Detail-oriented

Ensures accuracy and precision in diagnostic testing and reporting, which is crucial for patient safety and effective treatment.

Empathetic

Provides comfort, clear explanations, and reassurance to patients who may be anxious or unwell during medical procedures.

Composed

Maintains calm and focus when performing complex procedures, interpreting critical data, or dealing with urgent clinical situations.

Analytical

Thoroughly interprets complex physiological data, cardiac imaging results, and patient symptoms to aid in diagnosis.

Reliable

Adheres strictly to clinical protocols, equipment operation standards, and reporting guidelines to ensure consistent, high-quality care.

Best for

  • Individuals who are methodical, analytical, and dedicated to precision and patient care in a clinical setting.
  • Those who enjoy using advanced medical technology and scientific principles to directly contribute to patient health and diagnosis.

Watch out for

  • The work is highly structured and protocol-driven, offering limited scope for creative or entrepreneurial approaches to tasks.
  • Requires maintaining composure and accuracy under pressure, especially when dealing with urgent clinical situations or complex patient cases.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Cardiac Physiologist — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Team handover and schedule review
Perform transthoracic echocardiograms
Conduct cardiac stress tests
Tue
Perform inpatient ECGs and urgent echoes
Consult with cardiologists on complex cases
Write and review diagnostic reports
Wed
Equipment calibration and maintenance checks
Perform routine outpatient echocardiograms
Continuing professional development (CPD)
Thu
Perform specialized cardiac tests (e.g., bubble studies)
Departmental meeting or case review
Prepare for upcoming clinics and stock supplies
Fri
Routine outpatient ECGs and Holter monitor removals
Finalize pending reports and prepare weekend handover
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

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