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Pulmonary Function Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sutter Health

Pulmonary Function Specialist

Roseville, CA · On-site

$63.40 - $88.75/hr

Graduation from an accredited formal Respiratory Therapy or Cardio-Pulmonary Technology Program ... In-depth knowledge of pulmonary function testing, mechanics and equipment. Ability to interpret a ...

Sutter Health

Pulmonary Function Specialist

Roseville, CA · On-site

$63.40 - $88.75/hr

Graduation from an accredited formal Respiratory Therapy or Cardio-Pulmonary Technology Program ... In-depth knowledge of pulmonary function testing, mechanics and equipment. Ability to interpret a ...

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All JobsPulmonary Function Tech JobsPulmonary Function Tech Jobs in California

Pulmonary Function Tech information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$63.2K

$124.8K

How much do pulmonary function tech jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for pulmonary function tech in California is $63,227.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pulmonary function tech?

To thrive as a Pulmonary Function Tech, you need a solid understanding of respiratory therapy, human physiology, and pulmonary function testing, typically supported by an associate’s degree or relevant certification (such as CPFT or RPFT). Familiarity with spirometry, plethysmography, and related diagnostic equipment, as well as electronic medical record (EMR) systems, is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and compassion help you accurately perform tests and provide comfort to patients. These skills ensure precise test results, effective patient care, and collaboration with healthcare teams for optimal respiratory health outcomes.

What is the difference between Pulmonary Function Tech vs Respiratory Therapist?

AspectPulmonary Function TechRespiratory Therapist
CredentialsCertification (e.g., CPFT), specialized trainingAssociate's degree, state licensure, certification (e.g., RRT)
Work EnvironmentPulmonary labs, diagnostic testing centersHospitals, clinics, emergency settings
Job ResponsibilitiesPerforming pulmonary function tests, data collectionAssessing and treating respiratory conditions, managing ventilators

While both roles focus on respiratory health, Pulmonary Function Techs primarily conduct diagnostic tests to assess lung function, whereas Respiratory Therapists provide treatment and manage respiratory care. The roles often overlap in work environments and require similar certifications, but their core responsibilities differ, with Respiratory Therapists having a broader scope of patient care.

What are some common challenges faced by pulmonary function techs during testing procedures, and how can they be managed?

Pulmonary Function Technicians often encounter challenges such as patients having difficulty understanding instructions, anxiety during breathing tests, or physical limitations that affect test performance. To manage these issues, techs use clear, supportive communication to guide patients step by step, adapt procedures for those with mobility or cognitive limitations, and work closely with respiratory therapists and physicians to ensure accurate results. Building rapport and creating a calm, encouraging environment can significantly improve patient cooperation and test quality.

What is a pulmonary function tech?

Pulmonary function techs, also known as pulmonary function technologists, are healthcare professionals who perform tests to assess how well a patient’s lungs are working. They administer breathing tests, such as spirometry and lung volume measurements, to help diagnose and monitor respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, and other lung diseases. These techs work closely with physicians and respiratory therapists, ensuring that test results are accurate and patients are comfortable during procedures. They also maintain equipment and ensure a safe, sterile testing environment.
What are popular job titles related to Pulmonary Function Tech jobs in California? For Pulmonary Function Tech jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pulmonary Function Tech jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Pulmonary Function Tech jobs in California are:
Pulmonary Function Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pulmonary Function Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,227 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Respiratory Therapist I (Pulmonary Function Lab)

University of California

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$50.96 - $67.23/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

University Of California rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 616 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description Join our dedicated team of healthcare professionals supporting the diagnosis and treatment of cardiopulmonary disease through advanced pulmonary diagnostic testing. As a Respiratory Therapist you will perform a variety of pulmonary function and exercise studies while contributing to quality improvement, staff education, and research initiatives across the Health System. Key responsibilities:
  • Perform routine pulmonary function testing, including spirometry, lung volumes, and diffusion studies
  • Conduct advanced diagnostic procedures, including Resting Energy Expenditure (REE) studies and Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET)
  • Assist with quality control procedures, preventative maintenance, and equipment troubleshooting
  • Participate in personnel training and competency development
  • Support the implementation of new testing procedures and protocols
  • Assist with coordinating daily operations and shift activities
  • Collaborate with physicians, researchers, and interdisciplinary teams
  • Monitory quality assurance activities and maintain accurate documentation
May include rotating day, night, and weekend shifts Must be flexible to work throughout the Health system as needed
Salary range: $50.96/hr - $67.23/hr Qualifications Required Associate's degree in Respiratory Therapy or related field. Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential through the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). Current California Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) License. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
Preferred Bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy or related field. Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS). Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) or Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT) certification from the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of biological sciences and cardiopulmonary physiology sufficient to perform pulmonary function testing. Experience performing routine pulmonary function studies. Familiarity with pulmonary laboratory equipment, including blood gas analyzers, exercise testing systems, and related diagnostic equipment. Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills. Ability to effectively interact with patients, providers, staff, and research personnel. Physical Requirements Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds. Ability to assist in moving patients weighing up to 100 pounds. Ability to stand and/or walk for up to 75% of a 12-hour shift. Ability to sit, kneel, crouch, push, pull, and reach as needed throughout the workday. Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with patients, families, physicians, faculty, staff, and visitors.

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