Graduate Respiratory Therapist - UPMC Children's Hospital
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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
5 Questions You Should Ask During the Interview
Here are 5 questions we think you could ask during your interview. Use them as a guide to help you write your own questions.
Remember: Always have at least 5 questions prepared for the interview. If you do not, you run the risk of looking unprepared.
What does success look like in this role, and how is it measured?
Why ask this? You want to ensure you have a clear understanding of expectations before accepting the role. Knowing how success is measured helps you hit the ground running and avoid surprises about performance evaluations. It also signals to the employer that you're results-driven.
Can you describe the team dynamic and the company culture?
Why ask this? Skills and experience matter, but if the work environment isn’t a good fit, you won’t be happy or productive. This question helps you gauge whether the company values collaboration, how teams interact, and whether the culture aligns with your work style and values.
What are the biggest challenges facing the person in this role right now?
Why ask this? Every job has challenges, and it’s better to know them upfront. This helps you assess whether the role is a good fit for your strengths and whether the company is realistic about its expectations. If they hesitate to answer, it could be a red flag.
How does the company support work-life balance and employee well-being??
Why ask this? Burnout is real, and some companies expect employees to sacrifice personal time for the job. By asking this, you’ll get a sense of how they value work-life balance, flexibility, and well-being—things that are crucial for job satisfaction and long-term success.
These questions help you make an informed decision while also showing your professionalism and strategic thinking!
Location
Job Data
Company: UPMC - University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Posted: July 12, 2026
Category: Allied Health