Respiratory Therapist

About the job Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory Therapist
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
Salary Range: $53 to $53 per year
Position Summary
A dedicated healthcare team in Des Moines, Iowa is actively seeking a skilled and compassionate Respiratory Therapist to join their clinical staff on a full-time, onsite basis. This is a focused 90-day position designed to provide critical respiratory care support to patients across a variety of clinical settings. The ideal candidate brings both technical expertise and genuine commitment to patient-centered care. Respiratory therapy is one of the most vital disciplines within modern healthcare, directly impacting patient outcomes for those suffering from chronic and acute pulmonary conditions. Professionals in this field work alongside physicians, nurses, and other allied health specialists to develop and execute comprehensive treatment plans. This role offers an excellent opportunity for both seasoned therapists and those looking to deepen their clinical experience within a fast-paced, supportive environment. Des Moines continues to grow as a regional healthcare hub, making this an exciting time to contribute meaningfully to the local medical community. The selected candidate will play an essential role in improving patient quality of life while working within a collaborative, mission-driven clinical culture that prioritizes excellence, compassion, and continuous professional development.
Core Responsibilities

• Assess, treat, and monitor patients with breathing disorders and cardiopulmonary conditions across inpatient and outpatient settings
• Perform diagnostic procedures including pulmonary function tests, arterial blood gas analysis, and bronchoscopy assistance
• Initiate and manage mechanical ventilation for critically ill patients requiring intensive respiratory support
• Administer aerosol medications, oxygen therapy, and breathing treatments according to established physician orders and clinical protocols
• Educate patients and their family members on disease management, proper inhaler techniques, and long-term respiratory health strategies
• Collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, and interdisciplinary care teams to develop individualized treatment plans
• Maintain accurate and thorough patient documentation in electronic health record systems in compliance with regulatory standards
• Respond promptly to emergency situations including rapid response calls and code events requiring advanced airway management
• Ensure proper maintenance, calibration, and sanitation of all respiratory therapy equipment
• Participate in departmental quality improvement initiatives and stay current with evolving best practices in respiratory care

• Active Registered Respiratory Therapist credential from the National Board for Respiratory Care
• Valid Iowa Respiratory Care Practitioner license or eligibility to obtain licensure prior to start date
• Minimum of one year of clinical respiratory therapy experience in an acute care hospital setting
• Demonstrated proficiency in mechanical ventilation management and airway care
• Strong interpersonal communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team
• Ability to work flexible shifts including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by departmental scheduling needs
• Current Basic Life Support certification; Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support preferred

• Competitive hourly compensation reflecting your skills and clinical experience
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance options available to eligible employees
• Generous paid time off program including vacation, sick leave, and recognized holidays
• Access to continuing education resources and professional development funding to support career advancement
• Tuition reimbursement programs for those pursuing advanced credentials or academic degrees in respiratory care or related health sciences
• 401k retirement savings plan with employer contribution support
• Employee assistance program providing mental health, financial, and wellness resources
• Supportive team environment that values work-life balance and recognizes individual contributions
• Opportunities for permanent placement following successful completion of the initial assignment period