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Respiratory Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Respiratory Director information

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$11K

$178K

How much do respiratory director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for respiratory director in the United States is $176,315.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $176,000.00 and $176,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid respiratory therapist?

The highest paid respiratory therapists are typically those in management or director roles, such as Respiratory Director, earning salaries that can exceed $100,000 annually. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and healthcare facility size, with those in leadership positions often earning the most in the field.

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

To thrive as a Respiratory Director, you need advanced clinical expertise in respiratory therapy, leadership experience, and a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in respiratory care, along with RRT credentialing. Familiarity with hospital management software, quality assurance systems, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Strong communication, team leadership, and problem-solving skills set top candidates apart in this role. These qualifications are vital to ensure high standards of patient care, regulatory adherence, and effective team management in respiratory services.

What is a Respiratory Director?

A Respiratory Director is a healthcare leader responsible for managing the respiratory therapy department within a hospital or healthcare facility. They oversee clinical operations, ensure quality care, develop policies, and manage staff such as respiratory therapists. Respiratory Directors also collaborate with physicians and other medical staff to implement best practices for treating patients with respiratory issues. Their role includes budgeting, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement of patient care services.

What are some common challenges faced by a Respiratory Director when managing a multidisciplinary team?

A Respiratory Director often oversees a team comprised of respiratory therapists, nurses, and physicians, which can present challenges in aligning diverse perspectives and coordinating care protocols. Effective communication is essential to ensure all team members are informed and engaged in patient care plans. Additionally, balancing administrative duties, such as budgeting and compliance, with clinical leadership can be demanding. Staying updated with evolving best practices and regulations also requires ongoing education and adaptability.

Do RNs or RTs make more money?

Respiratory Directors typically have higher salaries than RNs and RTs due to their leadership responsibilities and advanced qualifications. Registered Nurses (RNs) generally earn more than Respiratory Therapists (RTs), but salaries vary based on experience, location, and certifications. RTs focus on respiratory care, while RNs often have broader patient care duties, influencing their earning potential.

Are RTs in high demand?

Respiratory Therapists (RTs) are in high demand due to the ongoing need for respiratory care in hospitals and clinics, especially during respiratory illness outbreaks. The profession typically requires certification and offers strong job stability, with opportunities for advancement and specialization.

How to become a respiratory director?

To become a respiratory director, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy or a related healthcare field, along with several years of experience as a respiratory therapist. Certification as a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) are often required, and some roles may prefer or require a master's degree or leadership training. Strong management skills and knowledge of healthcare regulations are also important for this leadership position.
More about Respiratory Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Respiratory Director jobs? Cities with the most Respiratory Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Respiratory jobs? The most popular types of Respiratory jobs are:
What states have the most Respiratory Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Respiratory Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Respiratory Director job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $176,315 per year, or $84.8 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Respiratory Services to lead and oversee our respiratory care program within a skilled nursing/long-term care setting. This role is responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-quality respiratory services, maintaining regulatory compliance, and driving optimal resident outcomes.

The Director will provide leadership to respiratory staff and work in close collaboration with the Pulmonologist, ENT, and Medical Director to coordinate and enhance resident care.


Key ResponsibilitiesClinical Oversight
  • Direct and oversee all respiratory care services, including oxygen therapy, nebulizer treatments, ventilator management, CPAP/BiPAP, and tracheostomy care
  • Develop, implement, and evaluate individualized respiratory care plans
  • Provide clinical leadership during respiratory events and emergencies
  • Ensure strict adherence to infection control standards
Medical Collaboration
  • Partner with the Pulmonologist on ventilator management, weaning protocols, and complex pulmonary cases
  • Coordinate with ENT specialists on tracheostomy care and airway management
  • Collaborate with the Medical Director to align respiratory services with facility-wide clinical standards
  • Participate in clinical rounds and interdisciplinary team meetings
Leadership & Operations
  • Supervise respiratory staff, including scheduling, training, competency validation, and performance management
  • Provide education and support to nursing staff on respiratory treatments and equipment
  • Ensure adequate staffing coverage at all times
Regulatory Compliance & Quality
  • Ensure compliance with CMS, DOH, OSHA, and infection control regulations
  • Maintain accurate and timely documentation of respiratory services
  • Lead survey readiness and regulatory compliance efforts
  • Monitor clinical outcomes (hospital transfers, infections, respiratory incidents) and implement quality improvement initiatives
Equipment & Program Management
  • Oversee maintenance, cleaning, and proper utilization of respiratory equipment
  • Ensure availability of necessary supplies, including oxygen and ventilator equipment
  • Develop and maintain respiratory care policies and procedures

Qualifications
  • Licensed Respiratory Therapist (RRT or CRT) in the state of employment
  • Minimum of 3–5 years of clinical respiratory care experience
  • ICU and/or critical care experience strongly preferred
  • Experience in long-term care, subacute, or ventilator-dependent populations preferred
  • Prior supervisory or leadership experience preferred
  • Demonstrated expertise in ventilator management, tracheostomy care, and pulmonary best practices
  • Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills in acute respiratory situations

Core Competencies
  • Advanced clinical expertise in respiratory care
  • Leadership and team development
  • Strong interdisciplinary collaboration
  • Knowledge of regulatory and survey requirements
  • Effective communication and problem-solving skills

Work Environment & Requirements
  • Skilled nursing / long-term care setting
  • On-call availability for respiratory-related issues as needed
  • Ability to assist with resident care and operate respiratory equipment