Graduate Respiratory Therapist - UPMC Children's Hospital
Compensation
Pay not listed
The week · per this posting · weekdays assumed
Ask the employer about the pay range, the work setting, weekend coverage and time off.
Job Description
Launch your respiratory therapy career with purpose and possibility at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, where new graduates are supported, mentored, and empowered from day one. As a Respiratory Therapist, you’ll join a highly skilled pediatric team that blends advanced technology with compassionate, family‑centered care — giving you the confidence and clinical experience to thrive in a fast‑paced, high‑acuity environment.
Here, you’ll work side‑by‑side with dedicated Respiratory Therapy leaders and interdisciplinary experts who are committed to helping you grow through hands‑on learning, structured onboarding, and a career ladder designed to support your long‑term advancement. From specialized pediatric clinical exposure to opportunities to explore niche areas of respiratory care, UPMC Children’s is the ideal place to build a strong foundation and discover the full potential of your career.
Become part of a team where your skills matter, your growth is prioritized, and every breath you help deliver makes a meaningful difference.
- 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.
- Sign-on bonuses are also available for part-time positions and will be prorated based on commitment.
Applicants will be placed into the appropriate job title and salary based on their individual experience, certification and education.
Reviews prescriptions, patient data, and arterial blood gases to assess condition and determine therapy type, duration, and dosages.
Selects appropriate inhalant administration methods, ensures compatibility with physician’s orders, and evaluates medical orders.
- Interprets clinical data to optimize patient outcomes.
- Sets up, operates, and monitors ventilators, gas administration systems, environmental controls, and aerosol generators; adjusts equipment for optimal results.
- Ensures safe, efficient equipment function through inspection, testing, and ordering repairs when needed.
- Monitors patient responses (vital signs, blood gases, chemistry), performs drainage, breathing exercises, and pulmonary function tests.
- Consults physicians regarding adverse reactions and maintains accurate patient charts.
- Demonstrates procedures, supervises trainees, and assists in transporting ventilated patients.
- Responds to all emergency code situations.
Graduate of a Committee on Accreditation for Respiratory Care approved Respiratory program required
Students who have received a temporary license along with official transcripts are permitted to begin employment
Certified Respiratory Therapist from the National Board for Respiratory Care is required prior to expiration of temporary practice permit
Licensure, Certifications and Clearances
- BLS or CPR required
- Certified Respiratory Therapy Technician (CRTT)
- Osteopathic Respiratory Care OR Respiratory Care Practitioners (RCP)
Clearances with Renewal
- Act 31, 33, 34, & 73
- UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran
Key Responsibilities
The Respiratory Therapist reviews patient data and arterial blood gases to determine appropriate therapy and dosages while operating and monitoring life-support equipment like ventilators. They also consult with physicians regarding patient conditions, perform pulmonary tests, and respond to emergency code situations.
Requirements
Candidates must be graduates of a Committee on Accreditation for Respiratory Care approved program and hold or be eligible for a temporary license. A Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential and BLS/CPR certification are required.
Qualifications
- Education
- Professional certificate or licensure
Key Skills
Respiratory Therapy Career Context
Of the 50 active Respiratory Therapy listings this role was benchmarked against, 2% are remote, 60% have no call, 44% require no weekends.
Respiratory Therapy pay on WeekdayDoc is up 3.1% vs. the prior quarter (through Sep 2026).
The cost-of-living index for Pennsylvania is 97.6 (US average = 100; BEA Regional Price Parities (2024)). 61.7% of Pennsylvania clinicians report burnout symptoms in WeekdayDoc's Burnout Index (2026-01 data).
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