Respiratory Therapist Full-Time Days - Wilmington Clinic

Job Description

Job Description

Note: We will also consider qualified candidates interested in Part-Time and Per Diem opportunities.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Ambulatory Respiratory Therapist functions as an independent clinical contributor responsible for the day-to-day operations of a Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT) laboratory in an outpatient setting. This role supports pulmonologists and primary care physicians by delivering high-quality, evidence-based diagnostic testing and ensuring accurate, reliable results for clinical decision-making.

The Respiratory Therapist autonomously manages patient flow, performs pulmonary function testing procedures in accordance with American Thoracic Society (ATS) standards, and is responsible for the proper operation, calibration, and quality control of all testing equipment. The role requires strong clinical judgment, operational ownership, and the ability to coordinate care across multiple providers and clinic locations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Clinical Testing & Patient Care

Independently performs comprehensive pulmonary function testing including:

Spirometry (pre/post bronchodilator)

Lung volumes (FRC, plethysmography)

Diffusion capacity (DLCO)

Methacholine challenge testing

Six-minute walk testing

Pulse oximetry at rest and with exertion

Obtains detailed patient history, medication reconciliation, and indication for testing

Provides clear patient instruction and coaching to ensure optimal test performance and valid results

Evaluates patient effort and test quality; repeats testing as necessary to meet ATS acceptability and reproducibility criteria

Monitors patients for adverse reactions during testing and initiates appropriate response when indicated

Lab Operations & Independent Practice

Functions as the primary operator and coordinator of the PFT lab, managing daily workflow, scheduling coordination, and patient throughput

Collaborates with ordering providers (Pulmonologists and PCPs) to clarify test indications and ensure appropriate test selection

Reviews, validates, and uploads test results into the EMR (Cerner) in a timely manner for provider interpretation

Supports multiple clinic locations or providers as required, ensuring standardization of testing practices across the ambulatory network

Ensures compliance with ATS guidelines, organizational protocols, and regulatory standards

Equipment Management & Quality Assurance

Performs calibration, quality control, and maintenance of all pulmonary testing equipment on a routine basis

Maintains documentation of quality control logs and ensures equipment accuracy and reliability

Troubleshoots equipment issues and coordinates vendor support as needed

Maintains infection control standards and ensures proper cleaning and disinfection of equipment

Care Coordination & Program Support

Assists providers with specialized pulmonary diagnostic procedures as needed

Coordinates overnight oximetry testing and performs preliminary data review

Serves as a subject matter expert resource for pulmonary diagnostics within the ambulatory setting

Supports population health initiatives by identifying patients in need of pulmonary testing

Administrative & Compliance Responsibilities

Ensures accurate and complete documentation in the EMR system

Adheres to HIPAA privacy, safety, and infection control protocols

Maintains regular attendance and supports clinic operational needs

Participates in quality improvement initiatives and workflow optimization efforts

Performs other duties as assigned in support of departmental projects and goals.

Job Requirements

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

A. Education

Associates Degree required. Candidates with Respiratory Therapist Certification from a Vocational school or with at least 10 years of experience will be considered in lieu of Associates Degree.

B. Qualifications/Experience

Current California Respiratory Care Practitioner license required.

National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential or

National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential required.

Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) – Preferred

Requires one (1) to two (2) years of respiratory therapy experience as an respiratory therapist in an ambulatory setting.

Proficiency with pulmonary function testing and equipment.

Understanding of medical terminology in verbal and written form.

C. Special Skills/Knowledge

Bilingual skills preferred (Spanish)

Basic computer and keyboard skills—Windows programs

Current Basic Life Support (BLS)

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)

#LI-YD1

Full-time