Advance Your Career as a Registered Respiratory Therapist with the Indian Health Service

Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking to make a significant impact? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently hiring Registered Respiratory Therapists for the Gallup Service Unit in New Mexico. This is a unique opportunity to provide high-level care in a critical access environment while building a stable, rewarding career within the federal government.

About the Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is a federal agency within the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for providing medical and public health services to members of federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native tribes. Working at the Gallup Indian Medical Center means joining a team that values innovation, community, and compassionate service. Employees here play a vital role in closing the health disparity gap for over two million people across the nation.

Job Responsibilities

As a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT), you will serve as a key member of the interdisciplinary healthcare team. Your daily responsibilities will include:

Patient Assessment: Providing comprehensive respiratory assessments for patients across the lifespan in inpatient, outpatient, and critical care settings.
Advanced Support: Administering oxygen therapy, managing complex ventilator settings, and performing airway management for critically ill patients.
Diagnostics: Operating and calibrating blood gas analyzers, conducting pulmonary function testing, and interpreting clinical data.
Education: Teaching patients, families, and staff about disease management and the proper use of respiratory equipment.
Quality Assurance: Maintaining compliance with strict safety and infection control standards.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the following baseline standards:

Requirement	Description
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Certification	Current NBRC Registered Respiratory Therapist credential
Licensure	Active, unrestricted state license in any U.S. state
Background Check	Ability to pass a federal suitability and background investigation
Immunization	Compliance with IHS vaccine-preventable disease policies

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $51,007 to $73,432 per year. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy an extensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning, and accrued annual leave based on total years of federal service.

Application Tips

Use the Resume Builder: Federal applications require specific information (dates, hours per week, salary). The USAJOBS tool helps ensure you don't miss these critical fields.
Highlight Your Credentials: Clearly state your RRT certification number and state license details on your resume.
Be Prepared for Testing: You will likely need to complete the USA Hire assessment. Use the resources in the Applicant Resource Center to prepare.

Serving with the Indian Health Service is more than just a job; it is a commitment to health equity. If you are a skilled respiratory therapist looking to serve a community in need, apply today to join the Gallup Indian Medical Center team.

Why This Registered Respiratory Therapist Job Matters

Transform lives and advance your clinical career with the Indian Health Service at the Gallup Indian Medical Center.

Registered Respiratory Therapist Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking dedicated Registered Respiratory Therapists to join our healthcare team in Gallup, New Mexico. In this vital role, you will provide essential cardiopulmonary care, ventilator support, and emergency response services to American Indian and Alaska Native populations. We offer a collaborative environment where your expertise directly improves health outcomes for over two million people. This position offers the unique opportunity to practice in a culturally rich community while enjoying the stability and professional growth of a federal career.

Requirements for Registered Respiratory Therapist

U.S. Citizenship
Current, active registration as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) with the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC)
Active, unrestricted state license as a Respiratory Therapist in any state
Completion of a federal background investigation
Successful E-Verify employment verification
Compliance with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959

Preferred Qualifications for Registered Respiratory Therapist

Experience providing emergency inhalation therapy for critically ill patients
Proficiency in operating pressure ventilators and complex airway management
Expertise in blood gas analysis, pulmonary function testing, and diagnostic evaluation
Strong background in patient and family education regarding respiratory disease management
Demonstrated ability to maintain and calibrate complex respiratory equipment

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health insurance plans
✓Generous annual leave accrual
✓Federal retirement benefits
✓Competitive salary structure
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
✓Opportunities for interdisciplinary professional collaboration

💡 How to Apply Registered Respiratory Therapist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Registered Respiratory Therapist Job

Log in to your USAJOBS account and click the Apply Online button.
Complete the required eligibility questionnaires and application forms.
Attach all supporting documentation, including your resume and relevant certifications.
Submit your complete application package before the deadline.
If notified, follow the unique link to complete the required USA Hire Assessments within the designated window.
Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements, such as hours worked per week and salary, are included.
Clearly list your Respiratory Therapist license and NBRC registration details, including expiration dates.
Submit unofficial transcripts early to streamline the process, though official ones may be requested later.
Set aside at least two hours for the USA Hire Assessments; you can pause and return to them if necessary.
Ensure your documentation is legible and clearly labeled to avoid disqualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of the Gallup Service Unit?

The mission is to provide high-quality, culturally competent healthcare services to American Indian and Alaska Native populations, focusing on improving overall community health outcomes.

Is relocation assistance available for this position?

Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates, subject to agency approval and a minimum six-month service agreement.