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Pulmonary Function Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Pulmonary Function information

See California salary details

$113.5K

$336.7K

$394.8K

How much do pulmonary function jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for pulmonary function 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 typical daily tasks for a pulmonary function technologist, and how do they collaborate with other healthcare professionals?

A Pulmonary Function technologist’s day often involves conducting a variety of respiratory tests, such as spirometry and lung volume measurements, to assess patients’ lung function. They work closely with respiratory therapists, physicians, and nurses to interpret test results and ensure accurate diagnoses. Collaboration is essential, as technologists frequently communicate findings to the healthcare team and help tailor patient care plans. The role also involves maintaining equipment, calibrating devices, and educating patients about test procedures.

What are pulmonary function tests?

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are a group of non-invasive tests that measure how well your lungs are working. They assess lung volume, capacity, rates of flow, and gas exchange to help diagnose and monitor lung conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory disorders. PFTs are commonly used to evaluate symptoms like shortness of breath, to check lung function before surgery, or to assess the effectiveness of ongoing treatment. The tests are usually performed by a respiratory therapist or pulmonary function technician in a hospital or clinic setting.

What is the difference between Pulmonary Function vs Respiratory Therapist?

AspectPulmonary FunctionRespiratory Therapist
CredentialsOften requires a Respiratory Therapist certification or similarRequires state licensure and RRT credential
Work EnvironmentSpecialized testing labs, clinics, hospitalsHospitals, clinics, emergency settings
Job FocusConducts pulmonary function tests to assess lung capacityProvides respiratory care and manages ventilators

While both roles involve respiratory health, Pulmonary Function specialists primarily perform diagnostic tests to evaluate lung function, whereas Respiratory Therapists provide direct patient care and respiratory treatments. The two roles often collaborate but differ in certification requirements and daily responsibilities.

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 background in respiratory care or a related health science, often with certification such as Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT) or Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT). Familiarity with pulmonary function testing equipment, spirometry software, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is crucial. Attention to detail, clear communication, and patient-centered care are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate test results, patient safety, and effective collaboration with healthcare teams for optimal respiratory care.
What cities in California are hiring for Pulmonary Function jobs? Cities in California with the most Pulmonary Function job openings:
Infographic showing various Pulmonary Function job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $336,719 per year, or $161.9 per hour.

Respiratory Therapist II (RT) - Respiratory Therapy

Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego

San Diego, CA • On-site

$44.52 - $61.95/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Rady Children's Hospital rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 1,055 rated hospitals


Job description

JOB SUMMARY:

Responsible for assessment, diagnostic and therapeutic interventions affecting the cardiopulmonary system for both children and adults. Selects and administers the appropriate care, taking into consideration the age, development level and size of the patient. Provides a caring relationship that facilitates health and healing. Identifies own limitations and seeks appropriate resources, as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Associate's Degree

1 Year of Experience

BLS for Health Providers (American Heart Association)

Ped Adv Life Support Prov(American Heart Association)

Respiratory Care Practitioner

In lieu of an Associate's Degree, a diploma from a NBRC certified Respiratory Therapist Program will be accepted for employees hired before 10/1/2013

Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT), CRT if hired prior to 10/1/2013

NRP Advanced Provider (AAP),with exception for employees in the Pulmonary Function Lab.

Pulmonary Function Lab Only: Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) or Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT) required within 6 months of hire for new hires post 7/1/2021

RT II new to Peds must obtain PALS (American Heart Association) and NRP Advanced Provider (AAP) within 3 months of hire

ACLS (American Heart Association) – for those in the RT Charge Role

Ability to take care of patients or patient equipment in the area in which you work, including the ability to handle patients with an airborne-transmitted disease. Must be able to comply with infection control standards that may evolve over lime, including the routine use of PPE, required FIT testing and/or specialty training

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's Degree

3 Years of Experience

Pulmonary Function Lab Specialist: 1+ year Pulmonary Lab experience

Bilingual

Advanced Credential

The current salary range for this position is $44.52 to $61.95

A candidate’s placement in the range will be determined based on the terms and conditions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement. Rady Children’s Hospital is committed to being externally competitive and internally equitable. We demonstrate this commitment by reviewing market data to remain competitive within the nonprofit, healthcare sector. This posting will remain open from the “date posted” until the hiring manager has determined there is a sufficient applicant pool or until the position is filled.
 


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