1

Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Respiratory Therapy Extern works directly under the general supervision fo a Licensed Respiratory Thearpist and assists with stabilizing, preventing and remedying patient respiratory problems in ...

The Respiratory Therapy Extern works directly under the general supervision of a Licensed Respiratory Therapist and assists with stabilizing, preventing and remedying patient respiratory problems in ...

The Respiratory Therapy Extern works directly under the general supervision fo a Licensed Respiratory Thearpist and assists with stabilizing, preventing and remedying patient respiratory problems in ...

The Respiratory Therapy Extern works directly under the general supervision of a Licensed Respiratory Therapist and assists with stabilizing, preventing and remedying patient respiratory problems in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern information

See salary details

$17

$43

$72

How much do temporary respiratory therapy extern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary respiratory therapy extern 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 types of responsibilities can a Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern expect during their assignment?

As a Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern, you will typically assist licensed respiratory therapists with tasks such as setting up and maintaining respiratory equipment, monitoring patient vital signs, and providing basic respiratory care under supervision. Your daily responsibilities may include preparing treatment areas, assisting with patient assessments, and learning proper documentation procedures. This role is designed to give you hands-on clinical experience, so you’ll work closely with experienced therapists and other healthcare professionals, enhancing your practical skills while gaining exposure to a variety of patient care situations.

What is a Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern?

A Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern is a student or recent graduate in a respiratory therapy program who works under supervision in a clinical setting for a limited period. This externship allows them to gain hands-on experience and apply their academic knowledge to real patients, often as part of their training or before obtaining full licensure. The role typically involves assisting licensed respiratory therapists with patient care, performing basic respiratory procedures, and learning hospital protocols. Temporary positions like this help bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice.

What is the difference between Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern vs Respiratory Therapist?

AspectTemporary Respiratory Therapy ExternRespiratory Therapist
CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recent graduate of respiratory therapy programLicensed and certified respiratory therapist
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, shadowing or internship settingsFull-time clinical settings, patient care
Employer & IndustryHospitals, healthcare facilities, educational institutionsHospitals, outpatient clinics, home care

The main difference is that a Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern is usually a student or recent graduate gaining hands-on experience, while a Respiratory Therapist is a licensed professional providing patient care. The externship offers training and observation, whereas the respiratory therapist performs independent clinical duties.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern, you need foundational knowledge of respiratory therapy principles, ongoing enrollment in an accredited respiratory therapy program, and Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Familiarity with respiratory therapy equipment, electronic medical records (EMRs), and common hospital protocols is expected. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help externs succeed in patient care environments. These skills and credentials are crucial for ensuring patient safety, delivering quality care, and supporting licensed respiratory therapists in clinical settings.
More about Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern jobs
What cities are hiring for Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern jobs? Cities with the most Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Respiratory Therapy Extern jobs? The most popular types of Respiratory Therapy Extern jobs are:
What states have the most Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern jobs? States with the most job openings for Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern jobs include:
Infographic showing various Temporary Respiratory Therapy Extern job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 25% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,915 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Respiratory Therapy Extern - Southfield

Henry Ford Providence Hospitals

Southfield, MI

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Location: Henry Ford Providence Southfield Hospital

GENERAL SUMMARY 

A Respiratory Therapy Extern is defined as a person who is a full-time student in an accredited Respiratory Therapy program, preferably affiliated with HFHS, and works at the hospital in addition to their clinical studies.  

Under supervision of Registered Respiratory Therapists, the extern performs basic tasks, which have been learned in class and practiced in the School Laboratory setting. These tasks have also been practiced with demonstrated competency during clinical rotations at area hospitals.  

The extern follows all HFH Departmental Policies and Procedures and performs tasks only after successful passing of theoretical tests and practical competencies, administered by HFH Departmental leadership. As the externs progress in knowledge and experience, their job scope widens, as they demonstrate more skills and proficiencies. 

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Performs patient assessment, delivers basic Oxygen and aerosolized medication therapy.  

  • Performs CPR, Whole Blood analysis, Sputum induction, and other basic diagnostic tests, as assigned.  

  • Distributes respiratory supplies. Washes, cleans and disinfects soiled medical equipment. Tests and assembles various life-support, diagnostic, monitoring and therapy equipment.  

  • Adequately documents delivered patient care and all other assigned tasks.  

  • Functions as a team member in the care of patients. 

  • Communicates with coworkers, and other professionals, including physicians and nurses as needed to assist with quality patient care.  

  • Maintains high standards of clinical excellence, according to Departmental policies.  

  • Maintains clinical productivity standards.  

  • Maintains technical clinical expertise through educational activities.  

  • Maintains awareness of patient safety issues within the clinic and in the use of equipment. 

  • Maintains patient confidentiality according to HFHS HIPAA policies. 

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED 

Full-time student in good standing in an accredited Respiratory Therapy program, preferably affiliated with HFHS.  

Extending their expected graduation date, due to failing grades or dropping out of a Respiratory Therapy program is a condition for automatic termination as a Respiratory Therapy Extern.  

After graduation, the extern may apply for employment as a respiratory therapist and may be hired, based on meeting the educational and experience criteria, as well as availability of position openings for the Registered Respiratory Therapist job description. In either case, their employment as a Respiratory Extern will cease after graduation. 

Additional Information
  • Organization: Henry Ford Providence Hospitals
  • Department: HFPSH Respiratory Therapy
  • Shift: Rotating
  • Union Code: Not Applicable