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Respiratory Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Respiratory Assistant Department:University Hospital | Respiratory Therapy Responsibilities are moderately technical or complex and have a high degree of responsibility and judgment. Must demonstrate ...

The Respiratory Assistant I functions in administering and performing respiratory therapy floor care under the direct supervision of a licensed respiratory care practitioner. What You Will Do:

The Respiratory Assistant I functions in administering and performing respiratory therapy floor care under the direct supervision of a licensed respiratory care practitioner. What You Will Do:

The Respiratory Assistant cleans and disinfects patient equipment, sterilizes reusable equipment prior to reuse, assembles and performs basic calibrations on ventilators and other critical ...

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Respiratory Assistant information

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How much do respiratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for respiratory assistant in the United States is $14.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $14.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Respiratory Assistant vs Respiratory Therapist?

AspectRespiratory AssistantRespiratory Therapist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often requiredAssociate's degree or higher; state licensure required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilitiesHospitals, clinics, pulmonary rehabilitation centers
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with patient care, basic respiratory treatments, equipment setupPerform advanced respiratory assessments, develop treatment plans, manage ventilators

Respiratory Assistants support respiratory care teams with basic tasks and patient care, while Respiratory Therapists perform advanced assessments and develop treatment plans. Both roles work in similar healthcare settings, but Respiratory Therapists require more education and licensure, handling complex respiratory conditions.

Where do RTs make the most money?

Respiratory therapists (RTs) tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as metropolitan areas and states with advanced healthcare infrastructure. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in specialized settings can also influence salary levels for RTs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Respiratory Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Respiratory Assistant, you need a solid understanding of respiratory care procedures, patient assessment, and basic medical terminology, usually supported by a relevant certificate or associate degree. Familiarity with respiratory therapy equipment, spirometry testing devices, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and compassion are key soft skills that help in supporting patients and collaborating with healthcare teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring accurate care delivery and patient safety in respiratory therapy settings.

What are some typical challenges a Respiratory Assistant may face when supporting respiratory therapists during patient care?

Respiratory Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple patient needs in a fast-paced environment and adapting to rapidly changing clinical situations. They must be prepared to assist with equipment setup and troubleshooting under time constraints, communicate clearly with both patients and the healthcare team, and maintain strict infection control standards. Balancing these responsibilities while providing compassionate care can be demanding, but strong organizational skills and teamwork help ensure quality patient outcomes.

How much do RTs make?

Respiratory therapists (RTs) in Virginia typically earn an average annual salary of around $65,000 to $75,000, depending on experience, certifications, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on healthcare facility, location, and whether the RT has specialized skills or advanced certifications.

What does a respiratory assistant do?

A respiratory assistant helps patients with breathing problems by monitoring respiratory equipment, administering treatments such as oxygen therapy, and assisting with procedures under the supervision of respiratory therapists or healthcare providers. They often work in hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities and may need certification or training in respiratory care. Their role supports patient recovery and ensures proper use of respiratory devices.

What are Respiratory Assistants?

Respiratory Assistants, also known as respiratory therapy assistants or aides, are healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of Respiratory Therapists and other medical staff. They help with patient care by preparing equipment, maintaining supplies, and assisting with basic respiratory treatments. Their duties often include cleaning and sterilizing respiratory equipment, monitoring patients during procedures, and ensuring the smooth operation of respiratory therapy departments. They play a vital role in supporting the care of patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders.

Is RRT harder than RN?

A Respiratory Therapist (RRT) typically requires specialized training and certification in respiratory care, while Registered Nurses (RN) complete nursing education and licensing. The difficulty depends on individual skills and interests, but RRT programs often focus on technical respiratory procedures, whereas RN programs cover broader patient care. Both roles demand different skill sets and certifications, making direct comparison subjective.
More about Respiratory Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Respiratory Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Respiratory Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Respiratory jobs? The most popular types of Respiratory jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Respiratory Assistant jobs? The top employers for Respiratory Assistant jobs are:
What states have the most Respiratory Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Respiratory Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Respiratory Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,535 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Tampa General Hospital rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 158 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

339th of 1,054 rated hospitals


Job description

Performs designated Respiratory Care and Pulmonary diagnostic procedures, under the supervision of a Respiratory Care Coordinator or designee, in accordance with protocols and procedures established by the department and hospital, in the treatment, management, control, diagnostic evaluation, and care of patients with deficiencies and abnormalities associated with the cardiopulmonary system. The Respiratory Assistant will have a State of Florida license (EMT or LPN) that allows for the basic care to be completed in the definition of their abilities and scope of their practice. The Respiratory Care services include, but are not limited to, the following activities performed upon physician order: Therapeutic and diagnostic procedures performed with the use of medical gases and administration apparatus, environmental control systems, humidification, and aerosols; Administration of drugs and medications to the cardiopulmonary system; Bronchopulmonary drainage and breathing exercises; Cardiopulmonary resuscitation; Maintenance of natural and artificial airways. These are non- invasive procedures performed in non critical care areas, on patients of all ages, in accordance with mission, vision, and values of Tampa General Hospital. Responsible for distributing stock, supplies and equipment to designated areas. Responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, visual inspection, calibration and setup of biomedical and other electronic equipment as may be assigned. In addition, responsible for making daily rounds through each of the nursing care areas for retrieving and returning of equipment to the Respiratory Care department. Responsible for other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent and a valid license from one of the professions below:
  • EMT - must have graduated from a EMT school and licensed as a EMT in the State of Florida.
  • LPN - must have graduated from a LPN school and licensed as a LPN in the State of Florida.

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About Tampa General Hospital

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Tampa General Hospital was named the #1 hospital in Tampa Bay by U.S. News & World Report, 2020-2021, and recognized as one of America's Best Hospital's in five medical specialties: Cardiology & Heart Surgery, Diabetes & Endocrinology, Gastroenterology & GI Surgery, Nephrology, and Orthopedics. Tampa General Hospital has been designated a Magnet Hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the highest recognition for nursing excellence, for the fourth consecutive time - an accomplishment that fewer than one percent of hospitals nationwide have earned. TGH is accredited by The Joint Commission and was awarded disease-specific certification in five medical specialties. TGH is also accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). *Air transport provided by Metro Aviation, Inc.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tampa, FL, US

Year founded

1927