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Pulmonary Function Testing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

destinationone Consulting

Pulmonologists

Los Angeles, CA

$323K - $431K/yr

Conduct pulmonary function tests and manage ventilatory support. Educate patients on respiratory ... Strong analytical skills for diagnostic testing. Excellent communication skills. Disclaimer: We're ...

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All JobsPulmonary Function Testing JobsPulmonary Function Testing Jobs in California

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 Jul 15, 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.

Is RT a stressful job?

Pulmonary Function Testing technicians, or respiratory therapists, often work in clinical settings where they perform diagnostic tests and assist patients with respiratory issues. The job can be physically demanding and requires attention to detail, but it generally involves regular hours and a controlled environment, making it moderately stressful depending on workload and patient needs.

How much does a pulmonary technician make?

Pulmonary function testing technicians, also known as respiratory therapists or pulmonary technicians, typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $65,000, depending on experience, certification, and location. They often work in healthcare settings such as hospitals and clinics, performing diagnostic tests to assess lung function.

How to become a PFT technician?

To become a pulmonary function testing (PFT) technician, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete specialized training or certification in pulmonary function testing. Certification from organizations like the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) can enhance job prospects and demonstrate competence. PFT technicians often work under the supervision of respiratory therapists or physicians and should have good technical skills and attention to detail.

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.

Where do RT's make the most money?

Pulmonary Function Testing Respiratory Therapists (RTs) tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as urban areas or states with advanced healthcare infrastructure. Salaries can also increase with experience, certifications, and working in specialized or hospital settings.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Pulmonary Function Testing jobs in California? For Pulmonary Function Testing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pulmonary Function Testing jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Pulmonary Function Testing jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Pulmonary Function Testing jobs? Cities in California with the most Pulmonary Function Testing job openings:
Pulmonary Function Testing jobs near you
Respiratory Care Practitioner II - Per Diem - 12 hour shifts - Nights Variable

Respiratory Care Practitioner II - Per Diem - 12 hour shifts - Nights Variable

Washington Hospital

Fremont, CA

Full-time, Per diem

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Respiratory Care Practitioner RCP II  
Job Code: 2RC  
Salary Range:  $62.39 to $79.63 plus applicable per diem differential
Job Summary
Administers routine and advanced respiratory therapy procedures to patients of all ages in all areas of the hospital, as prescribed by a physician, and under the direction of the Director or Shift Leader. Performs other related duties as assigned, including EKG. In addition to performing the essential functions listed below, may also be assigned other duties as required. 

Qualifications 
• Education 
•  Licensure 
• Work  Experience 
• Skills/computer/  specific technical 
•  Other qualifications, miscellaneous 
 
Specify if qualifications are Required or Preferred 
 
 
 
 
- -- 
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 
Education: 
1.            High school graduate or equivalent 
2.            Associate  Degree from a recognized JRCRTE/AMA approved two  (2) year Respiratory Therapy  program. 
 
 
Licensure: 
1.          Valid  California  Respiratory  Care Practitioner (RCP) License by the Respiratory Care Board of the State 
of California 
 
Certification: 
1.                    Valid Basic Life Support (BLS) From American Heart Association (AHA) 
2.                    Valid Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) from American Heart Association (AHA) within 12 months of implementation of Respiratory Care Professional Development Career Ladder 
3.           Valid Pediatric Advanced  Life Support (PALS) 
From American Heart Association  (AHA) within 12 months of implementation of 
Respiratory Care Professional Development Career Ladder (not required for those 
who work exclusively in Pulmonary Rehab or PFT's) 
4.          Valid Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) from AHA/AAP within 60 days of hire or 12 months of implementation of Respiratory Care Professional Development Career Ladder (not required for those who work exclusively in Pulmonary Rehab or PFT's) 
5.               Actively credentialed as a, "Registered Respiratory Therapist"  from the National Board of 
Respiratory Care or 5 years recent experience as a Respiratory Care practitioner at WHHS 
 
Work Experience for Respiratory Care Dept: 
1.            Meets all RCP I requirements 
2.            Completed 1000 hours of acute care experience 
3.                   NICU II or assists with Therapeutic Bronchoscopy 
4.                   ICU/IMC 
5.         ED/Trauma 

 
 
 
 
6.         Med/Surg Units
7.                  Onc/Tele/Neuro/Ortho  units
8.                   Pediatrics
9.                  Advanced Care, including but not limited to: intubation assist, artificial airway management, ventilator management, critical care transports
10.              Proficient in Respiratory Therapy driven protocols and
strategies, including but not limited to: Flolan therapy, ICU Ventilator management and Weaning protocols, Bronchodilator protocol, Pediatric Asthma protocol, Lung Protection Strategies (ARDSnet)
11.              Mentor and orientate new Respiratory Care
Practitioners
12.              Performs other related duties as assigned, including  EKG
 
Work Experience for Pulmonary Rehab/PFT Dept:
1.  Meets all RCP I requirements
2.   Completed 1000 hours in either Pulmonary Rehab program or Pulmonary Function Testing at WHHS
 
Technical Knowledge:
1.            Understand patient's condition and changes in condition, by classifying the patient according to stability levels.
2.            Knowledge of normal and abnormal physiology related to the respiratory system.
3.            Understanding  of  the indications, appropriateness, contraindications,  and side effects of various medications  and treatment techniques
4.            Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
5.     Ability to organize work, set priorities and perform detailed work
 
PREFERRED/DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 
EDUCATION:
1.       Bachelor Degree in Respiratory or related health sciences/Healthcare
 
WORK EXPERIENCE:
1.       One to two years of experience in an acute care setting or Pulmonary Rehab Program
 
TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS: 
Respiratory Care Dept 
1.     Administers routine respiratory therapy procedures to patients of all ages in the following  units, including but not limited to General Floors (Medical/Surgical/Tele/Ortho/Oncology/Neuro), Pediatrics, Emergency Room/Trauma, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and Intermediate Care Unit (IMC), as prescribed by a physician, and under the Director or Shift Leader
2.      Displays competency, knowledge and proficiency with

 
 
 
 
ventilator patients, ABG's, Bipap and bedside spirometry
3.   Assists patients with education and health promotion
4.       Performs other related duties as assigned, including EKG
 
PulmonaQ! Rehab/PFT  De12t 
1.     Administers care for all phases of the Pulmonary Rehab program to include but not limited to: validation of patient acceptance, obtaining orders for entry, obtaining pre-authorizations, submits charges, completes registration forms
2.      Creates Individual Treatment Plans (ITP's), conducts exercise programs, education sessions
3.   Supports and assists with WHHS's Better Breather's Support Group
4.      Develops home discharge plans, and creates discharge summaries while maintaining all of the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) standards or 
5.      Displays competency in performing Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT) to include but not limited to: daily calibrations, quality controls, verification of insurance/obtaining pre-authorizations
6.   Document follow-up surveys/outcomes with Pulmonary Rehab graduates every 6 months
7.       Reconcile charges and submits weekly/monthly Revenue and Usage report
8.       In addition to performing the essential functions
listed,  may also  be assigned  other duties as required
 
SKILLS I COMPUTER  KNOWLEDGE: 
1.      Functional Knowledge of EPIC electronic medical chart documentation system preferred
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Essential Job Responsibilities 
 
 

Division:  Patient Care Services 
Title:  Respiratory Care Practitioner II 

Page 4 

 
 
priorities to address issues needing resolution. 
Demonstrates Skill Key Components: competency, job  knowledge, organizational skills, analytical skill, management of information, employee & patient safety 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Demonstrates Skill 
1.                 Assesses Service Line needs on an ongoing basis related to supplies, equipment and physician/staff education. Participates in evaluation of new supplies and equipment, soliciting input from medical and nursing staff, and makes recommendations based on the value analysis process. 
2.                 Demonstrates expertise and current knowledge of surgical procedures, instrumentation and equipment involved in clinical services. 
3.                  Demonstrates leadership capabilities and ability to coordinate activities to ensure appropriate and efficient use of resources (staff, supplies, equipment) 
4.                  Demonstrates effective communication skills. 
5.                  Demonstrates effective leadership skills including organization, 
(continued)                                                   coordination, and delegation. 
6.                 Remains current in knowledge of new technologies introduced into the Respiratory or Pulmonary Rehab departments 
7.                 Demonstrates       an     awareness       of    self-responsibility       and accountability for improving