Director, Respiratory Therapy

At ScionHealth, we empower our caregivers to do what they do best. We value every voice by caring deeply for every patient and each other. We show courage by running toward the challenge and we lean into new ideas by embracing curiosity and question asking. Together, we create our culture by living our values in our day-to-day interactions with our patients and teammates.

Job Summary

• The Director – Respiratory is responsible for the strategic, operational, and clinical leadership of the Respiratory Therapy Department. This role oversees patient care delivery, staffing, compliance, budget planning, and quality improvement initiatives. The Director ensures the delivery of safe, evidence-based respiratory care to all patient populations and fosters a professional environment that promotes excellence and staff development.

Essential Functions

• Develops and implements departmental goals, standards, and policies in accordance with organizational and regulatory requirements
• Directs and evaluates departmental operations, including clinical care, workflow efficiency, staffing, and documentation practices
• Manages hiring, orientation, training, evaluation, and continuing education for all respiratory care personnel
• Prepares and manages department budgets; oversees capital planning and operational expenditures
• Coordinates internal and external audits; ensures ongoing compliance with Joint Commission, CMS, and state licensure regulations
• Leads quality assurance activities and integrates evidence-based practices into respiratory care protocols
• Ensures appropriate application of respiratory care principles, including ventilator management, pulmonary diagnostics, and emergency response
• Promotes a culture of safety, professionalism, and accountability throughout the department
• Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to support optimal patient outcomes and care coordination
• Provides strategic input to senior leadership on respiratory care operations and growth initiatives

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations

• Advanced knowledge of respiratory modalities, equipment, and clinical protocols
• Effective leadership, communication, and team-building skills
• Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities
• Proficient in healthcare software systems and Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment

Education

• Associate’s degree from an AMA-accredited Respiratory Therapy program required
• Bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy, Healthcare Administration, or related field preferred

Licenses/Certifications

• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) or Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) with current state licensure (RCP) required
• BLS, ACLS, PALS, NRP, and STABLE certifications required

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership experience in respiratory care or clinical services
• Strong knowledge of respiratory therapy operations, standards of care, and regulatory requirements