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Associate Respiratory Therapist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Associate Respiratory Therapist information

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$43

$72

How much do associate respiratory therapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate respiratory therapist in the United States is $43.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.29 and $53.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What other jobs can I do as a respiratory therapist?

Respiratory therapists can transition into roles such as respiratory care managers, clinical educators, or sales representatives for medical equipment. They may also work in home healthcare, medical device development, or pursue advanced certifications to move into specialized or supervisory positions within healthcare settings.

Where do RTs make the most money?

Respiratory therapists tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a high cost of living and strong healthcare industries, such as metropolitan areas or states with advanced medical facilities. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in specialized settings can also influence earning potential.

Is an associate's in respiratory therapy worth it?

An associate's degree in respiratory therapy prepares individuals to become respiratory therapists, a role that typically requires passing a certification exam and offers a median salary around $62,000. The degree provides foundational knowledge and skills needed for entry-level positions in healthcare settings such as hospitals and clinics, making it a valuable credential for those pursuing a career in respiratory care.

What can you do with an associate's in respiratory therapy?

An associate's degree in respiratory therapy qualifies individuals to work as respiratory therapists, providing patient care in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. Respiratory therapists perform diagnostic tests, manage ventilators, and assist with breathing treatments, often requiring certification and familiarity with medical equipment. The role typically involves working in a team environment and may require shift work or on-call hours.

What are some common challenges Associate Respiratory Therapists face when working in a fast-paced hospital environment?

Associate Respiratory Therapists often encounter challenging situations such as managing multiple patients with varying degrees of respiratory distress, adapting quickly to changes in patient conditions, and collaborating with physicians and nurses during emergency situations. Time management and prioritization are essential, especially when responding to code blue calls or assisting in critical care units. Building strong communication skills and staying up-to-date with the latest respiratory therapy protocols can help navigate these challenges effectively while providing high-quality patient care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Respiratory Therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Respiratory Therapist, you need a solid understanding of respiratory care principles, patient assessment, and clinical procedures, typically supported by an associate degree in respiratory therapy and state licensure or certification (such as CRT). Familiarity with respiratory therapy equipment, ventilators, and electronic medical records (EMR) systems is essential. Strong communication, teamwork, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for working effectively with patients and healthcare teams. These abilities ensure safe, accurate respiratory care and positive patient outcomes in clinical settings.

What is the difference between Associate Respiratory Therapist vs Respiratory Therapist?

AspectAssociate Respiratory TherapistRespiratory Therapist
CredentialsAssociate degree, licensure requiredBachelor's degree or associate degree, licensure required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, home careHospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level to mid-level roles in healthcareBroader roles, often with more responsibilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level positions and certificationsMore advanced roles, higher qualifications

The main difference between an Associate Respiratory Therapist and a Respiratory Therapist lies in their educational background and experience level. An Associate Respiratory Therapist typically holds an associate degree and is suited for entry-level roles, while a Respiratory Therapist may have a bachelor's degree and take on more advanced responsibilities. Both roles work in similar healthcare settings, providing vital respiratory care to patients.

What is an Associate Respiratory Therapist?

An Associate Respiratory Therapist is a healthcare professional who assists in evaluating, treating, and caring for patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. They work under the supervision of senior respiratory therapists and physicians, performing tasks such as administering respiratory treatments, monitoring patient progress, and maintaining respiratory equipment. Typically, this role requires an associate degree in respiratory therapy and state licensure or certification. Associate Respiratory Therapists play a vital role in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings, supporting patients with conditions like asthma, COPD, and pneumonia.
More about Associate Respiratory Therapist jobs
What cities are hiring for Associate Respiratory Therapist jobs? Cities with the most Associate Respiratory Therapist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Respiratory Therapist jobs? The most popular types of Respiratory Therapist jobs are:
What states have the most Associate Respiratory Therapist jobs? States with the most job openings for Associate Respiratory Therapist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Associate Respiratory Therapist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,915 per year, or $43.2 per hour.
Reg Respiratory Therapist

Reg Respiratory Therapist

BayCare Health System

Bartow, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


BayCare Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 398 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

230th of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

BayCare Health System is currently in search of our newest Respiratory Therapist who is passionate about providing outstanding customer service to our community within Bartow at our new free standing ED.
Position Details:
  • Facility: BayCare Health System - Respiratory Care Services
  • Location: Free Standing ED - Bartow Medical Center
  • Status: Full Time, Exempt: No
  • Shift Hours: 6:30AM - 7:00PM
  • Shift: Days
  • Weekend Work: Every Other
  • On Call: No

The Respiratory Therapist is a clinical professional who utilizes the department's scope of services to access, plan, implement, and evaluate patient care as an integral member of the healthcare team.
Responsibilities Include:
  • Delivers Respiratory Care Services under the order of the physician and in accordance with protocols established by the hospital, other health care providers, or the board and functions in situations of unsupervised patient contact requiring individual judgment.
  • Performs noninvasive and invasive procedures with minimal oversight.
  • Perform diagnostic testing; and Emergency care/Adult critical care

Certifications and Licensures Required:
  • RRT (Respiratory Therapy License)
  • Active NBRC Credential for RRT
  • CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
  • NRP (Neonatal) - within 6 months
  • ACLS (Cardiovascular)
  • PALS (Pediatric) - Preferred

Education Required:
  • Technical Respiratory Therapy
  • Associate's Respiratory Therapy - Preferred

Experience Required:
  • 6 Months Respiratory

Specific Skills Required:
  • Clinical skills appropriate to position
  • Computer skills appropriate to position
  • Collaborate and work with a team
  • Critical thinking skills
  • Advanced Respiratory Assessment and Evaluations

Please apply if you are looking for an amazing career opportunity, the chance to be part of an amazing team, and a great place to work!
Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled

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