NICU Respiratory Therapist – UPMC Children’s Hospital

@ UPMC - University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
UPMC - University of Pittsburgh Medical Centerupmc-universityofpittsburghmedicalcenter.com

NICU Respiratory Therapist – UPMC Children’s Hospital

Pittsburgh, PA
Posted 5 days ago

About the job

UPMC Children’s Hospital specializes in neonatal and pediatric care. The NICU Respiratory Therapist role focuses on managing ventilatory support, collaborating with care teams, and providing critical respiratory treatments for neonatal patients in a high-quality, compassionate environment.

Requirements

  • Graduate of accredited respiratory program
  • Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT or RRT)
  • CPR or BLS certification
  • Experience with neonatal respiratory care
  • Able to operate ventilators and gas systems

Qualifications

  • Temporary license accepted with transcripts
  • Strong understanding of neonatal physiology
  • Ability to work in a team
  • Detail-oriented and adaptable
  • Willing to respond to emergencies

Full job description

UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh is seeking Respiratory Therapists to support its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). This position is dedicated exclusively to the NICU and involves the delivery of advanced respiratory care to critically ill neonatal patients. Responsibilities include the management of complex ventilatory support modalities such as high‑frequency ventilation, NAVA (Neurally Adjusted Ventilatory Assist), and inhaled nitric oxide therapy. Therapists function as integral members of the multidisciplinary care team, collaborating closely with neonatologists, nursing staff, and ECMO specialists to optimize patient outcomes. This role is well suited for clinicians with a strong interest in neonatal respiratory physiology and evidence‑based critical care.

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, license, 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

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