Job Description

Job Description

Now Hiring: Respiratory Therapists (Full‑Time & Casual)

Location: UPMC Cole

UPMC Cole is excited to welcome a Respiratory Therapist to our dedicated and close‑knit care team! This is a great opportunity to make a meaningful impact across all patient populations while enjoying a supportive, collaborative work environment.

We’re excited to offer sign-on bonuses for qualified Respiratory Therapists who join our team:

• $15,000 for therapists with 0–1 year of experience with a 2-year full-time commitment
• $20,000 for therapists with 1+ years of experience with a 2-year full-time commitment

Plus, a limited-time incentive  to earn an additional $10,000 upon completion of your third year of employment .

Prorated Sign-on bonuses are also available for part-time positions.

Learn more about our Respiratory Careers here: Respiratory Therapy Careers at UPMC

Ready to take the next step in your career? Apply today and become a vital part of our healthcare community!

Candidates will be placed on the appropriate step of the career ladder based on their experience and licensure.

Purpose of the Role

Under physician direction and by prescription, the Respiratory Therapist provides comprehensive respiratory and life‑support services to patients with cardiopulmonary conditions. This role offers the opportunity to work across all care settings and play a vital role in patient outcomes every day.

Key Responsibilities

• Review and evaluate medical orders to ensure appropriateness and effectiveness of care
• Interpret clinical data, including arterial blood gases, to guide therapy decisions
• Set up, operate, monitor, and troubleshoot respiratory equipment such as ventilators, therapeutic gas devices, aerosol generators, and environmental control systems
• Monitor patient responses and adjust therapy as needed
• Assist with the transport of mechanically ventilated patients
• Respond to all code situations
• Perform pulmonary function testing and assist patients with breathing exercises
• Maintain accurate and timely patient documentation
• Collaborate closely with physicians regarding patient progress and any adverse reactions
• Demonstrate respiratory procedures and supervise students during clinical training

Education & Training

• Graduate of a CoARC-accredited Respiratory Care program required.
• Students with a temporary license may begin employment with Human Resources approval and submission of official transcripts.

Required Certifications

• Basic Life Support (BLS) or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification required.
  • Must meet AHA standards, including both didactic and hands‑on skills components, within 30 days of hire .
• Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRTT) credential from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) required prior to the expiration of a temporary practice permit.
• Respiratory Therapists who obtained their CRT credential after July 1, 2002 must maintain certification in accordance with NBRC requirements.

Licensure

• Must hold one of the following Pennsylvania licensure classifications:
  • Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP)
  • Osteopathic Respiratory Care

Clearances

• Act 33 Child Abuse Clearance (with renewal)
• Act 34 Criminal Background Check (with renewal)
• Act 73 FBI Fingerprinting Clearance (with renewal)

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

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