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Respiratory System Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Pulmonologist

Hampton, VA · On-site

$297K - $396K/yr

Pulmonologist Position Hampton VAMC in Hampton, VA is seeking a Pulmonologist to diagnose and treat diseases of the respiratory system and breathing-related conditions. Possess the skills to treat ...

$43 - $48/hr

Works under the direction of the leadership team to provided respiratory services associated with and in accordance with standards of excellence established by Riverside Health System and facility ...

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Respiratory System information

See Virginia salary details

$17

$42

$71

How much do respiratory system jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for respiratory system in Virginia is $42.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.05 and $53.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Respiratory Therapist, you need a comprehensive understanding of cardiopulmonary anatomy, physiology, and disease management, typically supported by an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy and state licensure (often requiring the NBRC’s RRT credential). Familiarity with mechanical ventilators, pulmonary function testing equipment, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is crucial for daily practice. Strong communication skills, critical thinking, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you provide effective patient care and collaborate with healthcare teams. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring proper treatment of patients with breathing disorders and improving overall patient outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by respiratory therapists when working with critically ill patients?

Respiratory therapists working with critically ill patients often encounter challenges such as managing complex ventilator settings, responding quickly to sudden changes in a patient's condition, and coordinating care with physicians and nurses. Communication and adaptability are essential, as these patients may require rapid interventions and frequent adjustments to their treatment plans. Additionally, respiratory therapists must stay current with evolving technology and protocols to ensure the highest standard of care.

What is the difference between Respiratory System vs Respiratory Therapist?

AspectRespiratory SystemRespiratory Therapist
RoleBody system responsible for breathing and gas exchangeHealthcare professional diagnosing and treating breathing disorders
CredentialsNoneCertification and licensing required (e.g., RRT)
Work EnvironmentHuman body, medical settings, educational materialsHospitals, clinics, respiratory care centers
Industry UsageBiology, anatomy, healthcare educationHealthcare, medical services

The respiratory system is a body part involved in breathing, while a respiratory therapist is a healthcare professional specializing in treating breathing issues. The respiratory system is a biological system, whereas respiratory therapists work in medical settings to diagnose and manage respiratory conditions.

What is a respiratory system specialist?

Respiratory system specialists, often called pulmonologists, are medical professionals who diagnose and treat diseases and conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory tract. They manage illnesses like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and other breathing disorders. These specialists may perform diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and develop treatment plans to help patients improve their lung function and overall respiratory health.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Respiratory System jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Respiratory System job openings:
Infographic showing various Respiratory System job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,144 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Respiratory Therapist: Long Term Assisted Care-Norfolk, VA

The JAG Group

Norfolk, VA

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description


Working with colleagues who love what they do and are deeply committed to our Mission, you too can be part of our transformation across the enterprise.
Compensation Range
This position will be eligible for additional benefits consistent with the role. The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be determined based on various factors, including but not limited to: scope of role, level of experience, education, accomplishments, internal equity, budget, and subject to Fair Market Value evaluation. (The hiring range listed is a good-faith determination of potential compensation at the time of this job advertisement and may be modified in the future.)
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
2 years ICU experience(required)
Respiratory Therapy (with PFT experience preferred)
PHYSICAL/ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS
Standing or sitting in the exact location; may require to stoop, climb or lift light material (10 lbs. or less) or equipment. Push/pull 50+ lbs.
Located in an indoor area with frequent exposure to mild physical discomfort from dust, fumes, temperature, and noise. Examples: patient care providers and laboratory technicians.
HAZARDS OSHA
OSHA Category 1. Tasks that involve exposure to blood, body fluids, tissues, and other potentially infectious materials.
POSITION & UNIT ACCOUNTABILITIES
Communicates Issues, Resolves Problems and Suggests Efficiencies
Reports and escalates concerns to Chief Respiratory Therapist regarding quality assurance issues, safety incidents or other difficulties appropriately and in accordance with departmental policy.
Assessment & Care of Patients
  • Assesses efficacy of therapy treatment(s) and provides recommendations to provider on any changes in therapy .
  • Administers prescribed Respiratory therapy by setting up and operating various oxygen delivery devices, nebulizers, humidifiers, in order to deliver prescribed drugs, gases, humidity, and various oxygen concentrations to the Respiratory system of the patient.
  • Always verifies correct patient by checking name on patient's wrist band.
  • Reviews patient charts on a daily basis ;
  • Observes patient during treatment; notifies immediate supervisor/nurse/provider of any adverse reaction to therapy;
  • Completes all procedures during the shift.
  • Consults with providers in establishing Respiratory Care plans, determining appropriate therapeutic modalities, and maintaining the continuity of Respiratory care for patients in critical and general care areas.
  • Performs routine oxygen and equipment rounds.
  • Always checks equipment function;
  • Replaces solutions as necessary;
  • Always records data;
  • Analyzes oxygen concentrations as appropriate .
  • Sets up, operates , and/or monitors:
  • Equipment to obtain induced sputum specimen to aid in diagnosis of pulmonary disease/illness;
  • Pulse oximeters and capnographs
  • Mechanical ventilators when patient's Respiratory system is incapable of adequate spontaneous ventilation.
  • Collaborates with patient care team members to encourage correct management of ventilator and supplemental oxygen in accordance with approved hospital protocols.

Demonstrates Clinical Proficiency
  • Participates in Signal One incidents as required.
  • Performs pulmonary function tests and submits to physician for interpretation as ordered.
  • Performs patient rounds, obtains patient history and makes assessment for patient treatment.
  • Performs all treatments and testing as per provider' s orders to include but not limited to mechanical ventilation, oxygen therapy, chest physiotherapy , incentive spirometry, chest postural drainage, endotracheal tube maintenance, small volume nebulizer treatments, weaning protocols, ex-tubations , aerosol therapy, high volume humidification, non-invasive ventilation.
  • Performs stat requests expeditiously.

Endeavors to Improve Organizational Performance
  • Participates in department QA/PI program and improves performance based on results obtained from QI activities.
  • Collaborates with peers, physicians and other members of the health care team as appropriate .

Inventory Management
  • Maintains Section equipment and supplies. Orders and restocks supplies when stock is low or near expiration date

Maintains Documentation & Manages Information
  • Records all pertinent information concerning patient procedures, and patient response to therapy in Respiratory Care progress notes and department billing/documentation forms.
  • Completes shift reports.
  • Maintains required files, records and reports on an ongoing basis.
  • Prepares written documentation as required by the profession and the department.

Participates in Education
  • Maintains and develops competence through required in-service and continuing educational programs.
  • Performs patient education and staff training.
  • Explains procedures to patients/family and answers questions, provides physical/emotional support to patient /family, and seeks guidance when necessary.

Promotes Environment of Care/Infection Control
  • Complies with policies and procedures concerning infection control and safety in order to maintain a safe and comfortable environment for patients, visitors and staff.
  • Disassembles, disinfects, and reassembles respiratory equipment as required

Professional/Clinical Standards
  • Consults with medical staff to verify test requests as needed.
  • Ensures patient safety through positive identification of patient (verifies patient name, DOB & MR#) .
  • Assists other personnel as required .
  • Maintains satisfactory attendance record.
  • Attends and participates in staff meetings.
  • Exhibits flexibility with respect to scheduling and work assignments.
  • Responds to customer concerns as soon as possible with compassion and understanding.
  • Follows departmental policies and procedures.
  • Adjusts to changing situations and work assignments.
  • Promotes a welcoming environment and professional atmosphere through courteous communication, cooperation, and respect for patients, visitors and members of the health care team.
  • Reports for duty punctually

EDUCATION
Associate's degree(required)
Bachelor's degree
CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSURE REQUIRED
Registered Respiratory Therapist
BLS
SKILLS
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
PFT experience preferred
Non-Discrimination Policy
We are committed to providing high quality care and skilled, compassionate, reliable service to our community in a safe and healing environment. Consistent with this commitment, our facility provides care, admits, and treats patients and provides all services without regard to age, race, color, creed, ethnicity, religion, national origin, culture, language, physical or mental disability, socioeconomic status, veteran or military status, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law or by accreditation standards.
To learn more about pay and benefits, please apply today!
Thank you,
Derrick Green
National Staffing Director
The JAG Group
dgreen@thejaggroup.com
678-884-5696 Direct
404-405-6465 cell
678-884-5530 main