1

Respiratory System Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Respiratory System information

See salary details

$17

$43

$72

How much do respiratory system jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for respiratory system 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.

Who gets paid more, RN or RT?

Registered Nurses (RNs) generally earn higher salaries than Respiratory Therapists (RTs), with RNs often having higher average annual wages due to broader responsibilities and required education. RTs typically earn less but may have shorter training programs and work primarily in respiratory care settings such as hospitals and clinics.

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 jobs can you get with a respiratory degree?

A respiratory degree prepares individuals for roles such as respiratory therapist, where they assess and treat patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. These professionals typically work in hospitals, clinics, or healthcare settings and may require certification or licensing depending on the region.

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 jobs does the respiratory system do?

The respiratory system is responsible for facilitating gas exchange, supplying oxygen to the blood, and removing carbon dioxide from the body. Jobs related to this system include respiratory therapists, pulmonologists, and respiratory technicians, who work in healthcare settings to diagnose and treat breathing disorders. These roles often require specialized training, certifications, and knowledge of respiratory equipment and anatomy.

What are respiratory system specialists?

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.

Is respiratory a good career?

A career in respiratory therapy involves assisting patients with breathing issues, often requiring certification and knowledge of medical equipment. It offers stable employment opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare settings, with a typical work schedule that may include shifts and on-call hours.
More about Respiratory System jobs
What cities are hiring for Respiratory System jobs? Cities with the most Respiratory System job openings:
What states have the most Respiratory System jobs? States with the most job openings for Respiratory System jobs include:
Infographic showing various Respiratory System job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,915 per year, or $43.2 per hour.
Respiratory Therapist SNF per diem*

Respiratory Therapist SNF per diem*

Briarcrest Nursing Center

Bell Gardens, CA

$33 - $38/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Briarcrest Nursing Center is a 135-bed skilled nursing facility located in Bell Gardens, CA.


5648 Gotham St, Bell Gardens, CA 90201

Currently hiring for per diem shifts.

POSITION SUMMARY

The purpose of your job position is to perform the duties of respiratory care upon the physician’s request by following the federal, state, and local guidelines that govern the facility and as directed by the DON and Administrator.

The Respiratory Therapist will treat each resident fairly, kindly, and show them dignity and respect. They will refer to each resident by their name. They will communicate clearly, empathetically, and effectively when speaking to residents, family members, visitors, all staff and governmental agencies. They will work cooperatively with all departments and multidisciplinary teams. They will demonstrate patience, initiative and willingness to assist residents that may be difficult or in discomfort. They will relate all pertinent information concerning a resident's condition to a charge nurse as required. They will be committed to always doing the right thing.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Conducting physician prescribed treatments of a routine nature operating Intermittent Positive Pressure Breathing (IPPB) Machine, various oxygen devices, nebulizer and ultrasonic nebulizer in order to administer prescribed medicinal vapors and gasses, humidity and various oxygen concentrations to the respiratory system of the resident

  • Explaining the purpose and procedure treatments to residents

  • Performing chest physical therapy treatments involving percussion, postural drainage, and suctioning in order to mobilize secretions and mucus in the lungs and to clear airway blockage in the respiratory systems

  • If authorized, performing arterial puncture, operates blood gas analyzer measuring and determining the acid base balance efficiency of ventilation, and metabolism of the respiratory systems

  • Setting up, operating and monitoring ventilators

  • Ensuring the adequate maintenance of ventilation during cardio-pulmonary resuscitation

  • Performing pulmonary function studies determining the volume, distribution, and movement of air in the respiratory system

  • Timely recording of all respiratory care records in residents chart

  • Reporting treatments to be conducted and condition of residents to relief personnel

  • Processing respiratory therapy equipment - cleaning, sterilizing and packaging as required

  • Performing preventative maintenance and repair of equipment as needed

  • Frequent rounding to check residents oxygen equipment, replacing humidifiers as necessary, as well as spot-checking other respiratory equipment on a timely basis

  • Participating in the Hazardous Material Program. Hazards include exposure to blood and body fluids, possible communicable diseases, sharp objects and instruments, assorted chemical and gasses as listed in the Hazardous Materials Program Manual

  • Participating in QC activities as requested

  • Protecting each resident's file and data with confidentiality per HIPAA standards.

  • Abiding with all facility policies and procedures including not disclosing user ID codes and passwords

Every effort has been made to identify the essential functions of this position. However, it in no way states or implies these are the only duties you will be required to perform as directed by management. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or is an essential function of the position.

REQUIREMENTS

Education / Licensure

  • Current California Respiratory License (credentialed by the NBRC)

  • Must have valid BLS certification

Qualifications / Experience

  • Minimum of 1-year work experience, skilled nursing setting preferred

  • Must be able to read, write, understand and communicate proficiently in English language

  • Must possess excellent time management skills

  • Working Conditions  

  • May be involved with residents, family and government agencies

  • May be requested to work beyond scheduled working hours at times

  • May be exposed to infectious waste, diseases, conditions, etc., including TB and the AIDS and Hepatitis B viruses

Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to sit, stand, bed, twist, walk and move intermittently throughout the day

  • Must be able to work under stress and in emergency situations.

  • Must be able to work under conditions that require sitting, standing, walking, reaching, pulling, pushing and grasping.

  • Visual acuity is required to observe details of instruments required for life support.


INDEMP

7/10/2026