Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)

Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)As a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) at UNC Health Appalachian, you play a critical role in delivering specialized respiratory care to patients across acute, critical, and general care settings. You will work closely with physicians, nurses, and interdisciplinary care teams to support airway management, mechanical ventilation, and advanced respiratory therapies that directly impact patient outcomes.This role combines advanced clinical expertise, compassionate patient care, and collaboration in a fast-paced healthcare environment. You will support patients and families during some of their most vulnerable moments, ensuring care is delivered with empathy, precision, and respect.Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone offers an exceptional quality of life with abundant outdoor recreation, a welcoming community, and excellent schools.Compensation: Starting at $31.27/hour, based on education, experience, certification, and internal equity Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, HSA, supplemental insurance, student loan refinancing benefits, 403(b) retirement plan with employer match, PTO, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave, wellness incentives, and employee discountsWhat You'll Do as a Registered Respiratory TherapistProvide specialized respiratory care to critically ill and injured patients, including airway management, oxygen therapy, lung expansion therapy, and bronchial hygieneManage mechanical ventilation and troubleshoot critical care respiratory equipmentPerform endotracheal intubation, tracheostomy care, and airway suctioningAdminister inhaled medications and respiratory treatments per provider ordersPerform diagnostic procedures including arterial blood gas analysis, electrocardiograms, and cardiac stress testingCommunicate clearly and compassionately with patients and families, especially during times of crisisCollaborate with multidisciplinary healthcare teams, including physicians, anesthesiologists, and specialists, to deliver comprehensive, high-quality careRespond to emergencies and rapid changes in patient condition with urgency, accuracy, and professionalismMaintain patient dignity, safety, and comfort while adhering to ethical standards and hospital policiesContribute to a positive work environment through teamwork, accountability, and effective communicationQualificationsMinimum EducationGraduate of an accredited Respiratory Therapy programExperiencePrevious experience in an acute care setting preferredOne year of prior experience in a similar role preferredLicensure/CertificationRegistered with the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) or registry-eligible per NBRC standardsBasic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association required at time of hireAdvanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) must be obtained within one year of hireKnowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesSuccessful completion of required respiratory therapy training modules during the probationary period, including endotracheal intubation, pulmonary function testing, and electrocardiogramsStrong verbal and non-verbal communication skills with patients, families, physicians, and colleaguesAbility to deliver safe, effective care within legal scope of practice and hospital policiesDemonstrated commitment to exceptional customer service and patient-centered careFamiliarity with Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systemsPhysical & Work EnvironmentAbility to lift, position, and transfer patients up to and greater than 50 poundsProlonged standing, walking, sitting, and movement, including bending, squatting, twisting, and turningManual dexterity required for fine motor skills and repetitive hand, finger, and wrist movementsAbility to see clearly at distances of 20 inches or lessExposure to vibration, cramped spaces, and occasional ionizing and non-ionizing radiation (x-ray and microwave)Regular exposure to blood-borne pathogens, bodily fluids, chemicals, mechanical hazards, and unpleasant odorsIrregular work hours including days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and emergency situationsWhat Sets Us ApartMission-Driven Work: Your expertise directly supports patient safety, respiratory stability, and positive clinical outcomesCareer Growth: Access ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and advancement opportunities through our Career Pathways ProgramPeople-Centered Culture: We value collaboration, accountability, and respect across all disciplinesA Community You'll Love: Boone is consistently recognized for its outdoor lifestyle, arts, dining, strong school system, and small-town charmCommitment to Wellness: Participate in our Love Your Life employee wellness program and Employee-to-Employee (E2E) support fundReady to make a meaningful impact through advanced respiratory care? Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian as a Registered Respiratory Therapist and help improve lives in the community we serve.