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Respiratory Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Under the direct supervision of a respiratory therapist, assists in the administration of prescribed doses of medical gases and the set-up and administration of therapeutic treatment and aerosolized ...

Respiratory Intern (Part-Time, Flexible Schedule)Mercy Clinic SpringfieldLaunch Your Respiratory Therapy Career with Mercy Are you a respiratory therapy student looking for meaningful clinical ...

Respiratory Intern (Part-Time, Flexible Schedule)Mercy Clinic SpringfieldLaunch Your Respiratory Therapy Career with Mercy Are you a respiratory therapy student looking for meaningful clinical ...

Respiratory Intern (Part-Time, Flexible Schedule)Mercy Clinic SpringfieldLaunch Your Respiratory Therapy Career with Mercy Are you a respiratory therapy student looking for meaningful clinical ...

Under the direct supervision of a respiratory therapist, assists in the administration of prescribed doses of medical gases and the set-up and administration of therapeutic treatment and aerosolized ...

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Respiratory Intern information

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How much do respiratory intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for respiratory intern in the United States is $43.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.29 and $53.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical responsibilities for a Respiratory Intern during their clinical rotation?

As a Respiratory Intern, you can expect to assist with patient assessments, perform basic respiratory therapy procedures under supervision, and help monitor patients receiving respiratory support. You will also collaborate closely with registered respiratory therapists, nurses, and physicians to develop care plans and respond to patient needs. Interns often rotate through different hospital departments, gaining exposure to varied patient populations and clinical settings, which helps build foundational skills for future roles in respiratory care.

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

To thrive as a Respiratory Intern, you need foundational knowledge of respiratory care principles, basic patient assessment, and enrollment in or completion of an accredited respiratory therapy program. Familiarity with respiratory therapy equipment, electronic medical records, and infection control protocols is essential. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and a willingness to learn are key soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, accurate care delivery and support professional growth in a clinical environment.

Is 22 too old for an internship?

There is no age limit for a respiratory intern position, and candidates of various ages, including 22, are often considered. Internships typically focus on skills, education, and motivation rather than age, making it suitable for recent graduates or those seeking career change at that age.

Is there an RT shortage?

There is currently a high demand for respiratory therapists (RTs) due to increased patient needs, especially during health crises like respiratory illnesses. This has led to a shortage in many regions, creating more job opportunities for respiratory interns and professionals with relevant certifications and clinical experience.

What are respiratory interns?

Respiratory interns are students or recent graduates undergoing practical training in respiratory care, typically as part of a respiratory therapy degree program. They work under the supervision of licensed respiratory therapists and other healthcare professionals to gain hands-on experience in assessing, treating, and caring for patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. Their duties may include assisting with administering oxygen therapy, performing pulmonary function tests, and learning about patient education and equipment management. This internship is an essential step for those pursuing certification and a career as a respiratory therapist.

What is the difference between Respiratory Intern vs Respiratory Therapist?

AspectRespiratory InternRespiratory Therapist
Required CredentialsEnrolled in respiratory therapy program or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy; licensure/certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, shadowing professionalsHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and training settings, hospitals for internshipHealthcare providers, hospitals, outpatient clinics
Common Search & Comparison IntentLearning about entry-level or training rolesUnderstanding professional responsibilities and requirements

In summary, a Respiratory Intern is a student or trainee gaining hands-on experience in respiratory care, often in educational settings. A Respiratory Therapist is a licensed healthcare professional providing patient care. The internship serves as a stepping stone toward becoming a licensed therapist.

Is RRT harder than RN?

Respiratory Therapists (RRTs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) have different training and certification requirements. RRTs typically complete a specialized respiratory therapy program and pass a certification exam, focusing on respiratory and critical care skills, while RNs complete nursing programs and licensing exams. The difficulty depends on individual strengths and interests, but both roles require rigorous education and practical experience.

What does a respiratory intern do?

A respiratory intern assists respiratory therapists by observing and supporting patient care, such as preparing equipment, monitoring patients' breathing, and documenting procedures. They gain hands-on experience in respiratory therapy techniques and may perform basic tasks under supervision in healthcare settings.
More about Respiratory Intern jobs
What cities are hiring for Respiratory Intern jobs? Cities with the most Respiratory Intern 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 Intern jobs? States with the most job openings for Respiratory Intern jobs include:
Infographic showing various Respiratory Intern job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% Internship, 1% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,915 per year, or $43.2 per hour.
Respiratory Intern (Non-Exempt) (22072N)

Respiratory Intern (Non-Exempt) (22072N)

Mercy

Cape Girardeau, MO • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Mercy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 206 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

638th of 882 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Find your calling at Mercy! Performs direct patient care in the aspects of respiratory therapy according to physicians' orders and under the guidance and supervision of a licensed respiratory care practitioner. Performs all duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with our Mission, Values, and Mercy Service Standards. Position Details: Respiratory Intern Location: Mercy Hospital Southeast, Cape Girardeau, MO Department: Respiratory Status: PRN Shift: TBD Minimum Qualifications: Education: Active enrollment in an accredited school of respiratory care Licensure: Current Temporary Educational Permit (Respiratory Student License) from state board where employed. License must be obtained within 90 days of hire. Certification(s): Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification Why Mercy? From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period. Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us. keyword(s): Respiratory, Internship

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About Mercy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our mission is clear. We bring to life a healing ministry through our compassionate care and exceptional service. At Mercy, we believe in careers that match the unique gifts of unique individuals - careers that not only make the most of your skills and talents, but also your heart.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chesterfield, MO, US

Year founded

1827