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Entry Level Respiratory Therapy Jobs in Riverside, CA

Entry Level Respiratory Therapy information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$18

$45

$75

How much do entry level respiratory therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level respiratory therapy in Riverside, CA is $45.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.59 and $55.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level respiratory therapists, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level respiratory therapists often face challenges such as adapting to fast-paced clinical settings, managing multiple patients with varying needs, and becoming proficient with specialized equipment. Building strong communication skills and seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues can help ease the transition. Staying organized and being open to continuous learning are also essential for success and professional growth in this role.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Respiratory Therapist, you need a foundational knowledge of respiratory care, human anatomy, and physiology, typically achieved with an associate degree in respiratory therapy and state licensure or certification (such as CRT or RRT). Familiarity with ventilators, pulmonary function testing equipment, and electronic medical records systems is crucial. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, accurate patient care and effective collaboration within healthcare teams.

What is the difference between Entry Level Respiratory Therapy vs Respiratory Therapy Technician?

AspectEntry Level Respiratory TherapyRespiratory Therapy Technician
CredentialsAssociate's degree, CRT certificationUsually certification, less formal education
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, healthcare facilitiesHospitals, outpatient clinics, home care
Job ResponsibilitiesPatient assessment, therapy administration, ventilator managementAssist with equipment setup, patient monitoring, basic procedures
Industry UsageCommonly used in healthcare settings requiring licensed therapistsOften used for supportive roles alongside licensed therapists

Entry Level Respiratory Therapy professionals typically hold formal certifications and work as licensed therapists, performing comprehensive patient care. Respiratory Therapy Technicians usually assist licensed therapists, focusing on equipment and basic patient support. Both roles are vital in healthcare but differ in responsibilities and credentials.

What is an Entry Level Respiratory Therapist?

An Entry Level Respiratory Therapist is a healthcare professional who provides care for patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders, typically under the supervision of senior therapists or physicians. They perform diagnostic tests, administer treatments such as oxygen therapy or inhaled medications, and monitor patient progress. Entry level therapists usually hold an associate's degree in respiratory therapy and have obtained state licensure and certification. This role is crucial in hospitals, clinics, and home care settings, supporting patients of all ages with respiratory issues.
What are the most commonly searched types of Respiratory Therapy jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Respiratory Therapy jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Respiratory Therapy jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Respiratory Therapy job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Respiratory Therapy job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,806 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Respiratory Therapy Instructor, Adjunct

American Career College

Ontario, CA • On-site

$33.73 - $48.91/hr

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Job Posting TitleRespiratory Therapy Instructor, AdjunctChoose To Make A Difference

Come care with us at American Career College! As a Respiratory Therapist faculty member for a certified Great Place to Work, you willguide our respiratory therapy students to do more than change their own lives - you will help change the lives of every patient they treat throughout their career in healthcare. At American Career College you will have the opportunity to share your success story with the next generation of respiratory therapist!

You will make an impact by:

  • Delivering class and/or clinical instruction according to an approved course syllabus using accepted and effective teaching methods
  • Developing daily lesson plan
  • Advising and tutoring students
  • Maintaining current and accurate attendance and grade records
  • Remaining current in applicable program teaching field
  • Participating in faculty meetings, professional growth activities in the respective field and two (2) in-service training sessions annually.
  • Participating in college activities such as in-services, faculty meetings, student functions, graduation exercises, open houses, new student orientations, and advisory board meetings.
  • Striving for student success by providing quality instruction that results in students' achievement of course and program objectives, retention of students, and prepares students for entry-level positions in the healthcare field.

Your Experience Includes:

  • Three (3) years of occupational (i.e. practical) experience in the subject field in which they teach. 

Preferred:

  • One (1) year of teaching experience in the subject areas taught or demonstrate prior training in instructional methodology and teaching skills from a formal teacher educational program or any comparable training program or formal in-house training program.

Education:

  • At least an associate degree with the appropriate coursework in the subject required.
  • Must be a graduate from a program accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) in the specialty field or the subject area in which they teach.
  • Bachelor's degree in the healthcare field preferred

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:

  • Current Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) license to practice in California.
  • Current CPR Card.
CA Salary RangeUSD $33.73 - USD $48.91 /Hr.Bonus EligibleNoACC Company Overview

Do you want a career that allows you to make a difference in other people's lives? Discover what it means to truly believe in the work that you do at American Career College.

For more than 40 years American Career College has had the privilege of educating students seeking careers in healthcare-guiding them through their transformational journey from student to caregiver. Our associates are united behind that purpose and share a deep commitment to our values of teamwork, collegiality, transparency, and a student-centric approach to all we do. This focus creates an aligned, nimble, and consensus-driven culture that is solution-oriented and supports our associates' professional growth.

ACC EEO Statement

American Career College is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all associates.

Employment Type: OTHER