Respiratory Therapist (RT) - University Medical Center

Critical Care Expertise. Academic Medicine. Care That Changes Outcomes. 

Respiratory Therapists at UVA Health are essential clinical partners in the care of patients with complex cardiopulmonary needs. This role offers the opportunity to practice at a high level in a nationally recognized academic medical center where respiratory expertise directly influences patient stability, recovery, and survival. 

Where Advanced Respiratory Care Meets Purpose 

Respiratory therapy is a discipline that demands technical mastery, clinical judgment, and calm under pressure. At UVA Health, Respiratory Therapists work in an environment that respects that expertise—supporting patients across acute, critical, and specialty care settings while collaborating closely with physicians, nurses, and interdisciplinary teams. This role is ideal for therapists who want their skills fully utilized in a setting where excellence is expected and supported. 

The Role 

As a Respiratory Therapist, you will evaluate, treat, and monitor patients with acute and chronic cardiopulmonary conditions across a broad range of clinical environments. Your work will directly support patient stabilization, disease management, and recovery. 

In this role, you can expect to: 

• Deliver respiratory care therapies and interventions in accordance with physician orders and evidence-based protocols 

• Assess patient respiratory status and adjust treatment approaches based on clinical presentation and response to therapy 

• Manage and monitor mechanical ventilation, oxygen delivery systems, and airway support devices 

• Collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, and other members of the care team to develop and implement respiratory care plans 

• Provide patient and family education related to respiratory conditions, therapies, and equipment 

• Document care accurately and consistently to support continuity, quality, and safety 

The pace of this role is dynamic and clinically engaging. An average day may include caring for medically complex patients, responding to changes in patient condition, supporting emergent respiratory needs, and contributing to multidisciplinary rounds and care discussions. The work is hands-on, impactful, and deeply tied to patient outcomes. 

Why UVA Health 

UVA Health is a Magnet recognized academic medical center and Level 1 trauma center where respiratory care is central to patient survival and recovery across critical care, surgical, medical, and specialty populations.  

What makes this opportunity distinctive: 

• Academic Medicine Environment: Respiratory Therapists work alongside attending physicians, residents, fellows, and advanced practice providers in a true teaching hospital where clinical excellence and education are inseparable 

• High Acuity Clinical Exposure: UVA Health cares for patients with complex respiratory needs, including trauma, neurological injury, cardiopulmonary disease, and postoperative recovery 

• Professional Respect and Collaboration: Therapists are valued as clinical decisionmakers and essential contributors to interdisciplinary care planning 

• Innovation and Evidence Based Practice: UVA Health supports the integration of new respiratory technologies, research informed practice, and continuous improvement in care delivery 

• Strategic Role in Patient Care: Respiratory therapy is fundamental to UVA Health’s ability to deliver advanced, life sustaining care across the health system 

• This role offers the opportunity to practice respiratory therapy with depth, autonomy, and purpose—within a system that understands the importance of your expertise and invests in your success. 

Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates, supporting those who are considering a move to join UVA Health and its Respiratory Care team. 

Why People Love Living in Charlottesville 

Charlottesville offers an exceptional quality of life for healthcare professionals seeking balance alongside meaningful clinical work. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the area provides access to outdoor recreation, scenic trails, and four distinct seasons, while also offering a vibrant food scene, arts and music culture, and the energy of a university community. With a welcoming atmosphere, strong schools, and a cost of living that remains approachable compared to many large metropolitan areas, Charlottesville is a place where clinicians and families can truly thrive. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education:  Graduate of a CoARC accredited respiratory therapy program.

Experience:  12 months of acute/critical care Respiratory Therapy clinical experience.

License/Certification: Active Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT), Licensed to practice as a Respiratory Therapist in the Commonwealth of Virginia, American Heart Association (AHA) Health Care Provider BLS certification, Active NBRC Specialty Credential (e.g., RRT-ACCS, RRT-NPS) expected within 2 years of hire.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Job requires standing for prolonged periods, frequently traveling and bending/stooping. Proficient communicative, auditory and visual skills; Attention to detail and ability to write legibly; Ability to lift/push/pull 20 - 50lbs. May be exposed to chemicals, blood/body fluids and infectious disease.

The pay range for this role is $34.01 - $48.21 hourly. Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Retirement Savings
• Long-term and Short-term Disability
• Health Saving Plans, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Certification and Education Support

UVA Health is a world-class Magnet Recognized academic medical center and health system with a level 1 trauma center. 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” guide rates UVA Health University Medical Center as “High Performing” in 5 adult specialties and 14 conditions/procedures. We are one of 70 National Cancer Institute designated cancer centers. UVA Health Children’s is named by 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report as the best children's hospital in Virginia with 9 specialties ranked among the best in the nation. Our footprint also encompasses 3 community hospitals and an integrated network of primary and specialty care clinics throughout Charlottesville, Culpeper, Northern Virginia, and beyond.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.