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Respiratory Therapy Student Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Advanced Respiratory Care Student shall be under the direction of a licensed Respiratory Therapist. This individual shall be responsible to provide respiratory care and services to patients.

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Respiratory Therapy Student information

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$12

$29

$43

How much do respiratory therapy student jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for respiratory therapy student in the United States is $29.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $39.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Respiratory Therapy Student, you need foundational knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and respiratory care principles, typically demonstrated through prerequisite coursework and enrollment in an accredited respiratory therapy program. Familiarity with equipment like ventilators, spirometers, and medical charting systems, as well as certification in Basic Life Support (BLS), is often required. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in high-pressure situations help students excel in clinical environments. These competencies are vital for ensuring patient safety, effective care, and successful transition into professional practice.

What is the difference between Respiratory Therapy Student vs Respiratory Therapist?

AspectRespiratory Therapy StudentRespiratory Therapist
CredentialsEnrolled in respiratory therapy program, no certification requiredLicensed and certified (e.g., CRT or RRT)
Work EnvironmentClinical rotations, classroom, lab settingsHospitals, clinics, respiratory care departments
Job RoleLearning, assisting, observingPerforming respiratory care procedures independently

The main difference is that a Respiratory Therapy Student is in training and gaining experience, while a Respiratory Therapist is a licensed professional providing respiratory care services independently.

How much does a student respiratory therapist make?

A student respiratory therapist typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on the program, location, and level of training. Compensation may increase with experience and as students gain more clinical responsibilities during their education.

What other careers can a respiratory therapist do?

A respiratory therapist can transition into roles such as respiratory therapy supervisor, clinical educator, or healthcare administrator, utilizing their knowledge of respiratory care and patient management. They can also work in sales, research, or equipment development related to respiratory devices, often requiring additional certifications or specialized training.

Is RRT harder than RN?

Respiratory Therapy Students (RRT) and Registered Nurses (RN) have different educational paths and skill sets. RRT programs focus on respiratory care techniques, often requiring specialized certifications and clinical hours, while RN programs cover broader patient care skills. The difficulty varies based on individual strengths and the specific requirements of each profession.

What are respiratory therapy students?

Respiratory therapy students are individuals enrolled in academic programs to learn the knowledge and skills required to become respiratory therapists. They study topics such as human anatomy, physiology, respiratory care procedures, and medical equipment operation. During their education, students participate in both classroom instruction and clinical experiences, working under supervision to gain hands-on practice. Upon graduation and certification, they are qualified to provide care for patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders.

Can you work while in respiratory therapy school?

Respiratory therapy students can work part-time while in school, but they must balance work hours with their clinical and classroom commitments. Many students find employment in healthcare settings, such as hospitals or clinics, which can also provide relevant experience. However, full-time work is generally not recommended due to the demanding nature of the program.

What are some common challenges faced by Respiratory Therapy Students during clinical rotations?

Respiratory Therapy Students often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced clinical environments, managing multiple patients with varying respiratory needs, and effectively communicating with both healthcare teams and patients. Balancing academic coursework with hands-on clinical experiences can also be demanding. However, these challenges provide valuable learning opportunities and help students develop critical thinking, time management, and teamwork skills essential for a successful career in respiratory therapy.
More about Respiratory Therapy Student jobs
What cities are hiring for Respiratory Therapy Student jobs? Cities with the most Respiratory Therapy Student job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Respiratory Therapy Student jobs? The most popular types of Respiratory Therapy Student jobs are:
What states have the most Respiratory Therapy Student jobs? States with the most job openings for Respiratory Therapy Student jobs include:
Infographic showing various Respiratory Therapy Student job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,734 per year, or $29.7 per hour.
Respiratory Therapy Student

Respiratory Therapy Student

Springhill Medical Center

Mobile, AL • On-site

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Springhill Medical Center (Alabama) rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

916th of 1,051 rated hospitals


Job description

Respiratory Therapy Student

The Respiratory Therapist Student assists licensed Respiratory Therapists in providing respiratory care services to patients of all ages under the direct supervision of a licensed Respiratory Therapist and in accordance with hospital policies and state regulations. The student performs approved clinical duties while developing competency in respiratory assessment, therapeutic procedures, and patient care.

The Respiratory Therapist Student supports the mission, values, and standards of excellence of Springhill Medical Center while maintaining patient safety and confidentiality.

Schedule: Flex PRN

  • Flexible scheduling based on departmental needs and the student's academic commitments.
  • May include day, evening, night, weekend, and holiday shifts.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

  • We are a drug free facility. Passing a pre-employment drug screening is required.

Education Requirements:

  • Currently enrolled in an accredited Respiratory Therapy program.
  • Must maintain satisfactory academic standing throughout employment.
  • Must meet all student clinical requirements established by the educational program and hospital.
  • Eligible for Respiratory Therapist Student employment under Alabama regulations.

Licensure and Certifications:

  • Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

Experience:

  • Completion of one semester of clinical rotations required.
  • Basic knowledge of respiratory anatomy and physiology.
  • Ability to learn and apply respiratory care principles.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
  • Demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and a commitment to patient-centered care.
  • Ability to follow directions and perform duties under supervision.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.


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