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Associate Respiratory Therapist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate's Respiratory Therapy - Preferred Experience Required: * 6 Months Respiratory Specific Skills Required: * Clinical skills appropriate to position * Computer skills appropriate to position

Associate's Respiratory Therapy - Preferred Experience Required: * 6 Months Respiratory Specific Skills Required: * Clinical skills appropriate to position * Computer skills appropriate to position

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Associate Respiratory Therapist information

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$72

How much do associate respiratory therapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate respiratory therapist?

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 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 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.

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 involves working in healthcare settings such as hospitals. The degree can lead to job opportunities with competitive salaries and the potential for career advancement in respiratory care.
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Infographic showing various Associate Respiratory Therapist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,915 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Respiratory Therapist

Shriners Children's Chicago

Galveston, TX โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Respiratory Therapist

The Respiratory Therapist gets the opportunity to participate in daily planning via patient rounds. You'll work as part of the interdisciplinary team for the plan of care for our burn and orthopaedic patients. You'll be able to increase your knowledge in burn and orthopaedic care to improve outcomes for our amazing patients and families. Our Respiratory Therapists have the opportunity for academic growth through participation in research projects.

Hours: This night shift position will work 12-hour shift with rotating weekends and holidays.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provides primary respiratory care to patients from admission through their discharge under a physician's order
  • Communicates verbal and/or written patient and departmental information/special needs to pertinent persons in a timely and appropriate manner (i.e. rounds)
  • Documents accurate, specific, complete patient care data according to policy and procedure guidelines
  • Assures safe, cost effective operation and function of pertinent equipment and utilizes appropriate infection control techniques in all areas

Required Qualifications:

  • Associate Respiratory Therapy
  • RT license in state of practice
  • CRT

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 2 Years Respiratory Therapy experience in an ICU setting
  • 2 Year Pediatric experience
  • RRT

Compensation is determined based on years of relevant experience and departmental equity.