⭐ Bright Outlook
Respiratory Therapists
O*NET 29-1126.00 · SOC 29-1126
Projected Growth
+13%
2024–2034
Median Salary
$78k
per year
Annual Openings
9k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)
What You'd Actually Do
- →Assess patients with breathing disorders
- →Administer oxygen and aerosol treatments
- →Manage ventilator settings
- →Monitor arterial blood gases
- →Educate patients on respiratory care
Education & How to Get In
📋
Job Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)
Most Respiratory Therapists positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Work Environment
Primary Setting
Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites
Work Style
Mixed — alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Respiratory Therapists involves a mix of core responsibilities:
MorningAssess patients with breathing disorders
MiddayAdminister oxygen and aerosol treatments
AfternoonManage ventilator settings
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Realistic (Doers)5.0
Social (Helpers)4.9
Investigative (Thinkers)4.7
Conventional (Organizers)3.9
Enterprising (Persuaders)1.7
Artistic (Creators)1.0
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