Launch Your Career: Registered Respiratory Therapist at the Indian Health Service

Are you a skilled Respiratory Therapist looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with deep community impact? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is hiring Registered Respiratory Therapists for the Gallup Indian Medical Center. This is a rare opportunity to join a mission-driven organization providing essential care to American Indian and Alaska Native communities in New Mexico.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will be a vital part of the medical team, providing care across various settings including the emergency department, intensive care units, and outpatient clinics. Key responsibilities include:

Administering oxygen therapy and aerosolized medications.
Managing complex ventilator support for critically ill patients.
Performing diagnostic procedures like blood gas analysis and pulmonary function testing.
Educating patients and families on long-term respiratory disease management.
Maintaining and troubleshooting high-acuity respiratory equipment.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Active NBRC registration as a Registered Respiratory Therapist.
Unrestricted state license as an RT.
Successful completion of a federal background check.
Adherence to IHS immunization policies.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary structure commensurate with federal pay scales.

Grade	Salary Range
GS-7/8	$51,007 - $73,432

Benefits

Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:

Accrued annual and sick leave.
Federal health, life, and retirement insurance options.
Potential credit for previous non-federal or military experience for leave calculation.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Clearly define the duties performed in each role and include the number of hours worked per week.
Documentation: Keep your NBRC registration and state license documents ready for upload.
Stay Responsive: Keep an eye on your email for the USA Hire assessment link, as failure to complete this within the required window will result in disqualification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is relocation assistance available? A: Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates.

Q: Does this position require working on-call? A: Yes, the role may require standby duty or on-call hours.

Serving with the Indian Health Service is more than just a job; it is a commitment to health equity and community support. If you are a dedicated respiratory professional ready to make an impact, we encourage you to apply by the September 30, 2026, deadline.

Why This Registered Respiratory Therapist Job Matters

Make a transformative impact in healthcare by joining the Indian Health Service as a Registered Respiratory Therapist in the vibrant Gallup community.

Registered Respiratory Therapist Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking dedicated Registered Respiratory Therapists to join the Gallup Indian Medical Center. This role offers a unique opportunity to provide vital cardiopulmonary care to American Indian and Alaska Native populations. You will work within an interdisciplinary team to deliver life-saving treatments, perform diagnostic testing, and support critically ill patients in a dynamic clinical environment.

Requirements for Registered Respiratory Therapist

Possession of a current, active registration as a Registered Respiratory Therapist from the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC).
Current, active, and unrestricted state license as a Respiratory Therapist in any U.S. state.
U.S. Citizenship.
Completion of a federal background investigation.
Must be able to pass an E-Verify employment verification check.
Compliance with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy.
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
Demonstration of financial responsibility and good standing with creditors.

Preferred Qualifications for Registered Respiratory Therapist

Proven clinical experience in emergency inhalation therapy for critically ill patients.
Advanced technical skills in operating complex pressure ventilators and pneumatic nebulizers.
Expertise in performing blood gas analysis and calibrating pulmonary function testing equipment.
Strong proficiency in airway and tube care within intensive care unit (ICU) settings.
Demonstrated ability to educate diverse patient populations and their families regarding chronic disease management.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure.
✓Federal leave accrual based on years of service (4, 6, or 8 hours per pay period).
✓Potential credit for directly related previous non-federal experience or military service for leave calculation.
✓Comprehensive federal insurance and benefits package.
✓Opportunity for professional development within a nationwide healthcare organization.

💡 How to Apply Registered Respiratory Therapist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Registered Respiratory Therapist Job

Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS portal.
Click the 'Apply Online' button on the job announcement page.
Complete the required online questionnaires and provide all necessary documentation.
Submit your application package by the closing date of September 30, 2026.
Monitor your email for a unique link to complete the USA Hire assessment if required.
Track your application status via your USAJOBS account dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly lists the total hours worked per week for every position to help verify specialized experience.
Submit unofficial transcripts early to streamline the review process, even if official ones are requested later.
Double-check that all documents, including licenses and certifications, are legible and accurately reflect expiration dates.
Prioritize the background investigation forms if you are selected, as delays can impact your start date.
Use the USA Hire practice assessments available on the resource center website to get familiar with the format.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the REAL ID required for this position?

Yes, a REAL ID-compliant document is required for identification, in accordance with federal regulations.

What is the promotion potential for this role?

This position has a promotion potential up to the GS-8 grade level, subject to management discretion and performance.

Can I update my application after I have submitted it?

Yes, you can return to your USAJOBS account and select 'Edit my application' at any time while the job announcement is still open.

Job from Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service is a nationwide leader in healthcare delivery, dedicated to raising the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives. Working with the IHS means joining a team of compassionate professionals who value innovation, cultural sensitivity, and collaborative problem-solving.