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Pulmonary Function Testing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Procedures & Testing: * Assist with skin testing, patch testing, and pulmonary function testing * Calibrate and operate PFT equipment (Pulmonary Function Testing) * Support clinical team during peak ...

Medical Assistant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Procedures & Testing: * Assist with skin testing, patch testing, and pulmonary function testing * Calibrate and operate PFT equipment (Pulmonary Function Testing) * Support clinical team during peak ...

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Pulmonary Function Testing information

See California salary details

$113.5K

$336.7K

$394.8K

How much do pulmonary function testing jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for pulmonary function testing in California is $336,719.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $296,100.00 and $394,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pulmonary Function Technologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pulmonary Function Technologist, you need a solid background in respiratory care or allied health, typically with a relevant associate degree or certification such as Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) or Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT). Proficiency in operating pulmonary function testing equipment, spirometers, and related diagnostic software is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication, and patient-focused interpersonal skills help ensure accurate results and a positive patient experience. These skills and qualifications are vital for providing reliable diagnostic data that guides effective respiratory care and treatment.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Pulmonary Function Testing, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in Pulmonary Function Testing often encounter challenges such as ensuring accurate patient cooperation during tests, maintaining and calibrating sensitive equipment, and adapting to a fast-paced clinical environment. Clear communication with patients is crucial, as some may have anxiety or difficulty understanding instructions, which can impact test results. Staying updated with evolving testing protocols and collaborating closely with respiratory therapists, physicians, and other healthcare staff helps maintain high-quality care and supports continuous professional development.

What are pulmonary function testing (PFT) and what do they measure?

Pulmonary function testing (PFT) refers to a group of noninvasive tests that measure how well your lungs are working. These tests evaluate lung volume, capacity, rates of flow, and gas exchange to help diagnose and monitor various lung conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory disorders. PFTs can help your doctor determine the severity of lung problems and how well treatments are working, providing essential information for ongoing care.

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

AspectPulmonary Function TestingRespiratory Therapist
CredentialsOften requires specialized certification in pulmonary testingRequires respiratory therapy license and certification
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, pulmonary labsHospitals, clinics, emergency settings
Job FocusAdministering and interpreting pulmonary testsManaging patient airway, ventilator support
Industry UsageUsed mainly in diagnostic settingsUsed in patient care and respiratory management

While both roles involve respiratory health, Pulmonary Function Testing specialists focus on conducting and analyzing lung function tests, whereas Respiratory Therapists provide broader patient respiratory care and support. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What cities in California are hiring for Pulmonary Function Testing jobs? Cities in California with the most Pulmonary Function Testing job openings:
Respiratory Therapist I (Pulmonary Clinic RT)

Respiratory Therapist I (Pulmonary Clinic RT)

University of California

Los Angeles, CA

$48.53 - $64.03/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


University Of California rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 532 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Title

Respiratory Therapist

Work Location

Santa Monica, CA, USA

Work Schedule

Onsite or Remote Fully On-Site Work Schedule Hours/schedule may vary depending on staffing needs; 8-10 hour shifts; 3-5 days a week; May pickup additional shifts as needed

Salary Range

$48.53 – $64.03 per hour

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Deliver high-quality respiratory therapy services primarily at the Pediatric and Peds Allergy Pulmonary Clinics, with additional coverage at various Adult and Pulmonary Clinics and Pulmonary Function Laboratories across the health system as needed.

Conduct routine and advanced pulmonary function testing in both ambulatory and laboratory settings, ensuring strict adherence to established protocols and quality standards.

Provide patient and caregiver education on respiratory medications, airway clearance techniques (ACT), and the safe, effective use of durable medical equipment—including nebulizers, home ventilators, and CPAP/BiPAP devices—for both adult and pediatric populations.

Maintain expertise in respiratory devices, ensuring proper usage and troubleshooting during clinical practice.

Accurately generate and route pulmonary function reports using standardized documentation procedures and electronic health record systems.

Support the calibration and maintenance of pulmonary function laboratory equipment and actively participate in performance improvement and quality assurance initiatives.

Assist with clinic operations and contribute to the development and expansion of pulmonary programs, including potential involvement in research and quality improvement projects.

Demonstrate flexibility in work assignments, including rotating clinic locations and workdays, and provide coverage across the health system as needed.

Work under the general supervision of designated leadership, which may include the Respiratory Therapy Directors, Clinic Manager, Pediatric Pulmonary Clinic Manager, Relief Pulmonary Clinic Supervisor (RCP II), or Pulmonary Function Lab Manager, depending on assignment.

Perform additional duties as assigned to support patient care and departmental objectives.

Job Qualifications

Required:

  • Valid California Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) License
  • Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) certification from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC)
  • American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification
  • Associate's degree in Respiratory Therapy or a related field

Preferred:

  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) Certification
  • Prior experience performing Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT) with both adult and pediatric populations

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

  • Comprehensive knowledge of current respiratory therapy theories, practices, and procedures
  • Proficiency in organizing and prioritizing work efficiently and independently
  • Ability to interpret physician care plans and determine appropriate respiratory care modalities
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills; able to listen attentively and convey information clearly
  • Expertise in setting up, monitoring, and troubleshooting respiratory equipment
  • Ability to build and maintain cooperative working relationships with clinical and ancillary staff
  • Demonstrated professionalism and compassion when interacting with a diverse patient population, families, and healthcare team members
  • Capacity to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and adapt to changes in work schedules or assignments
  • Commitment to delivering excellent service, promoting patient satisfaction, and maintaining confidentiality at all times
  • Physical ability to:
    • Stand and/or walk for up to 75% of a 12-hour shift
    • Sit, push, kneel, crouch, and reach for extended periods
    • Safely transfer patients weighing at least 100 lbs. using equipment or assistance
    • Lift, push, pull, and carry a minimum of 35 lbs.
  • Dedication to teamwork and quality, with attention to detail, accuracy, and timeliness in all responsibilities

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