1

Respiratory Therapy Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Inspect and test respiratory therapy equipment to ensure it is functioning safely and efficiently * Order repairs when needed * Demonstrate respiratory care procedures to trainees * Perform staff ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Respiratory Therapy Trainee information

See salary details

$17

$43

$72

How much do respiratory therapy trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for respiratory therapy trainee 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 Respiratory Therapy Trainees?

Respiratory Therapy Trainees are individuals who are in the process of learning and gaining hands-on experience in the field of respiratory therapy, typically under the supervision of licensed respiratory therapists. They assist with assessing, treating, and caring for patients who have breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. Trainees often work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings while completing their education and clinical requirements. Their role is essential in preparing them for certification and a career as a licensed respiratory therapist.

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

AspectRespiratory Therapy TraineeRespiratory Therapist
CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recently completed respiratory therapy education programsLicensed and certified respiratory care professionals
Work EnvironmentUnder supervision, assisting in clinical settings such as hospitals or clinicsIndependent practitioners providing patient care
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning procedures, assisting with patient care, gaining hands-on experiencePerforming respiratory assessments, administering treatments, managing ventilators

The main difference is that Respiratory Therapy Trainees are in training or gaining experience under supervision, while Respiratory Therapists are fully licensed professionals responsible for patient care. Trainees are in the learning phase, whereas Respiratory Therapists operate independently with certification.

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

To thrive as a Respiratory Therapy Trainee, you need foundational knowledge in human anatomy, respiratory care principles, and basic patient assessment, often supported by enrollment in or completion of an accredited respiratory therapy program. Familiarity with respiratory equipment such as ventilators, oxygen delivery systems, and medical charting software is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are essential to provide safe, effective care for patients with respiratory conditions and to ensure successful teamwork in clinical environments.

What types of hands-on experiences can a Respiratory Therapy Trainee expect during their training period?

As a Respiratory Therapy Trainee, you will gain practical experience by working under the supervision of licensed respiratory therapists in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals and clinics. Your daily activities may include administering breathing treatments, learning to operate respiratory equipment, assisting with patient assessments, and participating in emergency response situations. Trainees often rotate through different departments, such as intensive care and emergency rooms, to develop a broad skill set. This hands-on approach helps you build confidence and competence before assuming full responsibilities as a certified therapist.
More about Respiratory Therapy Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Respiratory Therapy Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Respiratory Therapy Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Respiratory Therapy jobs? The most popular types of Respiratory Therapy jobs are:
What states have the most Respiratory Therapy Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Respiratory Therapy Trainee jobs include:
Infographic showing various Respiratory Therapy Trainee job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 89% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,915 per year, or $43.2 per hour.
Respiratory Therapy Student - Trainee

Respiratory Therapy Student - Trainee

Cincinnati Children's

Burnet, TX • On-site

$16.50 - $19.80/hr

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago


Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 148 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

318th of 999 rated hospitals


Job description

The Respiratory Therapy Trainee position is designed for individuals currently enrolled in an accredited respiratory therapy program who have not yet obtained their L1 Limited Permit. This entry-level role provides valuable exposure to the hospital environment and respiratory care operations, without direct patient care responsibilities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Replace and transport oxygen tanks throughout the hospital

  • Set up and calibrate ventilators and related respiratory equipment

  • Clean and maintain respiratory therapy equipment according to infection control standards

  • Respond to requests from bedside respiratory therapists and assist with non-clinical tasks as needed

  • Support The respiratory care team with routine operational duties

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Tasks are routine and follow clearly defined procedures

  • Work is performed under direct supervision with guidance from licensed respiratory therapists

JOB QUALIFICIATIONS

  • High school diploma or equivalent

  • Admitted to/enrolled in a CoARC accredited Respiratory Care program. Must maintain satisfactory performance AND successfully complete all job-specific training as defined by program guidelines

  • Must not yet have L1 permit from the Ohio Medical Board

  • Ability to follow detailed instructions and established protocols

  • Willingness to work under close supervision in a structured environment


Primary Location

Burnet Campus


Schedule

Part time


Shift

Rotating (United States of America)


Department

Respiratory Care


Employee Status

Stand By


FTE

0


Weekly Hours

0


*Expected Starting Pay Range

*Annualized pay may vary based on FTE status$16.50 - $19.80


About Us

At Cincinnati Children's, we come to work with one goal: to make children's health better. We believe in a holistic team approach, both in caring for patients and their families, and in advancing science and discovery. We strive to do better and find energy and inspiration in our shared purpose. If you want to be the best you can be, you can do it at Cincinnati Children's.

Cincinnati Children's is:

  • Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as atop 10 best Children's Hospitals in the nation for more than 15 years

  • Consistently among the top 3 Children's Hospitals for National Institutes of Health (NIH)Funding

  • Recognized as one of America's Best Large Employers (2025), America's Best Employers for New Grads (2025)

  • One of the nation'sAmerica's Most Innovative Companiesas noted by Fortune

  • Consistently certified as great place to work

  • A Leading Disability Employeras noted by theNational Organization on Disability

  • Magnet designated for the fourth consecutive time by theAmerican Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)

We Embrace Innovation-Together. We believe in empowering our teams with the tools that help us work smarter and care better. That's why we support the responsible use of artificial intelligence. By encouraging innovation, we're creating space for new ideas, better outcomes, and a stronger future-for all of us.

Comprehensive job description provided upon request.

Cincinnati Children's is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an environment of dignity and respect for all our employees, patients, and families. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, genetic information, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. EEO/Veteran/Disability


What Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center logo

About Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, located in Cincinnati, OH, US, is a premier pediatric hospital renowned for its exceptional clinical services, research programs, and medical education. The healthcare institution, founded in 1883, holds a sterling reputation in the industry, with a mission to improve child health and transform delivery of care through fully integrated, globally recognized research, education and innovation. As one of the oldest and most distinguished pediatric hospitals in the United States, Cincinnati Children's continues to offer a broad range of high-quality, compassionate care to children in the community and around the globe. As a testament to its dedication, it has consistently been ranked among the top three US pediatric hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cincinnati, OH, US

Year founded

1883