Advance Your Clinical Career: Registered Respiratory Therapist at the Lyons VA Medical Center
Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Lyons VA Medical Center is currently seeking a highly skilled Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) to join our esteemed Pulmonary Medicine team. This position offers the unique opportunity to provide high-level care to our nation's Veterans in a facility known for clinical excellence and technological advancement. If you are passionate about respiratory health and providing compassionate care, this could be the next chapter in your career.
Job Responsibilities
As an RRT at the Lyons VA, you will serve in a critical care capacity, handling both ambulatory and non-ambulatory patients. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Advanced Airway Management: Independently inserting artificial airways and responding to emergency respiratory and cardiac arrests as a member of the Code Blue and Rapid Response teams.
- Diagnostic Care: Performing arterial blood gas sampling and interpreting physiological data to adjust treatment protocols.
- Ventilation Support: Managing and monitoring complex respiratory equipment, including mechanical ventilators, to provide pressure control and volume support.
- Patient Education: Managing COPD cases, home oxygen programs, and troubleshooting equipment like CPAP and Bi-Level machines for outpatient services.
Comparison of Respiratory Care Settings
| Feature | Critical Care Setting | Outpatient/Home Care |
|---|---|---|
| Patient Complexity | High | Moderate to Low |
| Equipment Type | Mechanical Ventilators | PAP Therapy, Oxygen |
| Emergency Response | Code Blue/Rapid Response | Case Management |
| Primary Goal | Stabilization | Long-term Quality of Life |
Requirements
Candidates must be U.S. Citizens and possess a current, unrestricted RRT license and NBRC credential. You must have completed an accredited respiratory care program. Candidates for the GS-11 grade level require one year of equivalent experience at the GS-09 level. Additionally, all employees must be able to pass a background check and drug screen, and are required to participate in the annual influenza vaccination program.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a highly competitive annual salary range of $87,192 to $106,335. Beyond the salary, the VA offers a robust "Total Rewards" package, including excellent health insurance, federal retirement planning, and significant opportunities for paid leave and work-life balance.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, ensure your application package includes your NBRC credential, transcript, and a complete professional resume. The VA requires a specific clinical resume format; failure to use this document may impact your candidacy. Be sure to clearly articulate your experience in adult critical care and airway management, as these are core components of the evaluation criteria.
Serving as a Registered Respiratory Therapist at the Lyons VA Medical Center is more than just a job; it is a commitment to quality, integrity, and the service of others. If you meet the qualifications and are ready for a challenging, rewarding role in a supportive environment, we encourage you to submit your application by the August 3, 2026, deadline.
Why This Registered Respiratory Therapist Job Matters
Elevate your respiratory care career by joining a dedicated mission-driven team at the Lyons VA Medical Center, where your clinical expertise directly improves the lives of our nation's Veterans.
Registered Respiratory Therapist Job Overview
The Lyons VA Medical Center is seeking a compassionate and highly skilled Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) for a critical night shift role. In this position, you will work within the Pulmonary Medicine Section to deliver comprehensive care to both ambulatory and non-ambulatory patients. From conducting advanced diagnostic evaluations to serving as a vital member of the Code Blue and Rapid Response teams, you will utilize your specialized clinical skills to ensure optimal health outcomes for Veterans.
Requirements for Registered Respiratory Therapist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess a valid, current, and unrestricted license to practice as an RRT in a state.
- Maintain a valid, current, and unrestricted RRT credential from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).
- Successfully completed a respiratory care program accredited by the CoARC or its successor.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Subject to background and security investigations.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
- Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Respiratory Therapist
- 1-3 years of experience in Adult Critical Care settings.
- Documented proficiency in Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT).
- Strong collaborative skills for multidisciplinary care planning.
- Demonstrated ability in managing complex airway and ventilation requirements.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Generous paid time off, including annual and sick leave.
- ✓Predictable and flexible scheduling opportunities.
- ✓Access to the largest integrated healthcare system in the nation.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth.
- ✓Retirement planning and federal benefits programs.
💡 How to Apply Registered Respiratory Therapist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Respiratory Therapist Job
- Create or log in to your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Download and utilize the mandatory clinical resume template provided on the VA careers website.
- Upload all required documentation, including your RRT credential, transcripts, and any applicable veteran preference forms (DD-214).
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of August 3, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and clear when describing your clinical experience to ensure accurate qualification assessments.
- Do not assume the recruiter knows your background; detail your hands-on experience with mechanical ventilation and critical care.
- Double-check that you have used the correct, one-page restricted resume document as specified in the announcement.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests following the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the shift schedule for this position?
This role is a full-time night shift position, consisting of a combination of 12-hour shifts (7:00 PM – 7:00 AM) and 8-hour shifts (11:00 PM – 7:00 AM).
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, recruitment or relocation incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Is telework available for this position?
No, this is an onsite clinical position that requires physical presence to manage patients and equipment.
Do I need to be a veteran to apply?
While we encourage veterans to apply and offer hiring preferences for eligible candidates, this position is open to the public.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the nation’s largest integrated healthcare system. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military and their families. We operate under the "I CARE" core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Joining the VA means becoming part of a community that values balance, professional growth, and the highest standards of patient care.