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Entry Level Student Respiratory Therapist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UW Health

Student Respiratory Therapist

Madison, WI · On-site

We are seeking a Student Respiratory Therapist to: * Assist licensed respiratory therapists by providing basic respiratory therapy treatments and procedures. * Perform airway clearance, administer ...

UW Health

Student Respiratory Therapist

Madison, WI · On-site

We are seeking a Student Respiratory Therapist to: * Assist licensed respiratory therapists by providing basic respiratory therapy treatments and procedures. * Perform airway clearance, administer ...

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How much do entry level student respiratory therapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level student 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 does an entry level student respiratory therapist do?

An entry level student respiratory therapist assists in the care and treatment of patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders under the supervision of licensed respiratory therapists. Their responsibilities typically include administering oxygen therapy, monitoring patient vital signs, performing basic diagnostic tests, and helping with patient education. They are usually still in training or recently graduated, gaining hands-on experience in a hospital or clinical setting. Their work is crucial in supporting patient recovery, especially for those with conditions like asthma, COPD, or respiratory infections.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level student respiratory therapist?

Success as an Entry Level Student Respiratory Therapist requires foundational knowledge of respiratory care principles, basic patient assessment skills, and completion of an accredited respiratory therapy program or enrollment therein. Familiarity with respiratory therapy equipment, electronic health records (EHRs), and basic life support (BLS) certification are typically expected. Strong attention to detail, empathy, and effective communication are vital soft skills for interacting with patients and collaborating with healthcare teams. These abilities ensure safe, effective treatment and support optimal patient outcomes in clinical settings.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level student respiratory therapists during their initial clinical rotations?

Entry level student respiratory therapists often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced hospital environments, managing multiple patients with varying respiratory needs, and learning to use complex medical equipment under supervision. Balancing classroom knowledge with hands-on clinical practice can be demanding, especially when handling emergency situations or working night shifts. However, these challenges are valuable learning experiences and are usually supported by mentorship from experienced staff, regular feedback, and structured training programs.

What is the difference between Entry Level Student Respiratory Therapist vs Respiratory Therapist?

AspectEntry Level Student Respiratory TherapistRespiratory Therapist
CredentialsEnrolled in respiratory therapy program, clinical internshipLicensed, registered (e.g., RRT credential)
Work EnvironmentClinical rotations, supervised settingsFull responsibilities in hospitals, clinics
Job RoleAssists with patient care under supervisionPerforms assessments, treatments independently

The main difference is that Entry Level Student Respiratory Therapists are students gaining hands-on experience under supervision, while Respiratory Therapists are licensed professionals performing independent patient care. Students are in training, whereas licensed therapists have completed certification and can work autonomously.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Student Respiratory Therapist jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Student Respiratory Therapist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Student Respiratory Therapist jobs?

The most popular types of Student Respiratory Therapist jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Student Respiratory Therapist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Student Respiratory Therapist jobs include:

Entry Level Student Respiratory Therapist jobs near you

Student Respiratory Therapist

Riverview Regional Medical Center

Gadsden, AL • On-site

Per diem

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Overview
Shifts Available: Variable (Flexible for student schedule)
Employment Type: Per Diem (PD / PRN)
Location: Riverview Regional Medical Center - Gadsden, AL
We are seeking a Student Respiratory Therapist, sometimes referred to as our Respiratory Therapy Clinical Student. The Student Respiratory Therapist (Student RT) works under the direct supervision of a Respiratory Therapist. This role focuses on learning and assisting with a range of respiratory care procedures and treatments, providing hands-on experience while maintaining patient safety. Typically, the Student RT is enrolled in a respiratory therapy program and participates in clinical rotations within the hospital as part of their education. This position is on a per diem basis, meaning PD/PRN as needed.
Responsibilities
Essential Duties and Responsibilities (includes, but not limited to):
  • Administer respiratory treatments such as oxygen therapy, aerosol medications, chest physiotherapy or other related respiratory tasks
    • Oxygen Therapy: administer oxygen to patients with respiratory distress or low oxygen levels
    • Aerosol Medications: deliver medications via nebulizers or inhalers to help treat conditions like asthma or COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
    • Chest Physiotherapy: assist in techniques to help patients clear mucus from their lungs
  • Monitor patients' respiratory rates, oxygen levels (using pulse oximeters), and breathing patterns
  • Assist in the drawing and analyzing of blood samples to assess levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH in the blood - Arterial Blood Gases (ABG)
  • Observe and adjust mechanical ventilators for patients who are unable to breathe independently, ensuring settings are appropriate based on the patient's condition
  • Enhance your skills on initial assessments of patients with breathing problems, which includes listening to lung sounds and assessing symptoms; report findings to supervising RTs or doctors to adjust treatment plans as needed
  • Assist with some respiratory procedures, for example:
    • Intubation and Extubation: assist in the placement or removal of endotracheal tubes, which help patients breathe in critical situations
    • Suctioning: Help to remove secretions from a patient's airway to maintain a clear passage for breathing

Qualifications
Before we go any further, we do have some deal-breakers. You must have:
  • Must be approved with State Respiratory Therapy board to work as a Student Respiratory Therapist
  • Current BLS (AHA) certificate upon hire and maintain current
  • At the minimum, the student must be enrolled in an accredited respiratory program and completed first semester of clinical rotations
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Will not be able to work as a Student Respiratory Therapist if for any reason may become not eligible for an accredited respiratory therapy program

Additional Qualifications That Are a Plus:
  • Preferred, is a student who has completed more than one semester and/or other medical experience

Full benefits at Prime Healthcare: https://www.primehealthcare.com/careers/benefits/
#LI-MP1
Employment Status
Per Diem
Shift
Variable
Equal Employment Opportunity
Company is an equal employment opportunity employer. Company prohibits discrimination against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (subject to applicable law), disability, military status, genetic information or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. Know Your Rights: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf

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