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Respiratory Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Respiratory Assistant information

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How much do respiratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for respiratory assistant in California is $14.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $14.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a respiratory assistant?

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.

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.

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Respiratory jobs in California?

The most popular types of Respiratory jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Respiratory Assistant jobs in California?

For Respiratory Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Respiratory Assistant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Respiratory Assistant jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Respiratory Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Respiratory Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Respiratory Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,135 per year, or $14.5 per hour.

Respiratory Care Practitioner

South El Monte, CA โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory Therapists are specialized healthcare professionals dedicated to the assessment, treatment, and care of patients with cardiopulmonary disorders. We work in close collaboration with physicians and the broader healthcare team to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Our mission is to provide high-quality healthcare within a safe environment that supports the physical, emotional, spiritual, and multi-cultural needs of our patients and their families. Throughout the delivery of our services and programs, we remain committed to advocating for and preserving human dignity.

Responsibilities

- Patient Assessment & Treatment: Assessing respiratory status, administering respiratory treatments, providing oxygen therapy, and managing ventilators and airway support.

- Diagnostic Testing: Performing Arterial Blood Gases (ABGs), Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT), EKGs, and Cardiac stress tests to assist physicians in diagnosing heart and lung disorders.

- Emergency & Life Support: Providing life support to patients with cardiopulmonary deficiencies and responding to respiratory emergencies.

- Documentation: Ensuring all patient care procedures and cardiovascular tests are accurately documented to support ongoing diagnosis and treatment.

Qualifications

Graduated from AMA accredited School of Respiratory Therapy or equivalent.

Minimum of one year acute patient care experience in Respiratory Services or Respiratory related care preferred.

Current California RCP license.

Current Healthcare provider BLS.

Current ACLS.

Current PALS and NRP, AB-508/MAB.

RRT preferred.

Hospital Description

Greater El Monte Community Hospital is a 110-bed acute care facility offering a comprehensive range of services, including ICU, MST, ER, OR, and Sub-Acute units. To better meet the growing needs of our community, we are currently building a new psychiatric unit, which is expected to be operational in 2026. Our primary focus remains providing high-quality, safe, and patient-centered care to all those we serve.