Career Opportunity: Registered Respiratory Therapist at Wilmington VA
Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking to make a difference in the lives of those who served our nation? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) for the Wilmington, Delaware Medical Center. This is a unique opportunity to apply your clinical expertise in an environment that prioritizes patient-centered, compassionate care.
Job Responsibilities
As an RRT at the Wilmington VAMC, you will act as a critical member of the clinical team. Your duties will include:
- Clinical Support: Performing high-quality diagnostic and therapeutic respiratory care.
- Equipment Management: Selecting, setting up, and maintaining life support equipment, including ventilators and BiPAP machines.
- Patient Care: Administering medications to the cardiopulmonary system and managing natural and artificial airways.
- Collaboration: Consulting with physicians and other staff to optimize patient outcomes.
- Education: Assisting in the bedside training of medical residents and students.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Education: Completion of a CoARC-accredited respiratory care program.
- Licensure & Credentials: A current, unrestricted state license and an RRT credential.
- Proficiency: Excellent written and spoken English.
Salary Overview
| Grade Level | Potential Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-05 to GS-11 | $44,887 - $106,982 |
Benefits
- Comprehensive health and life insurance plans.
- Federal pension and retirement savings (TSP) plans.
- Paid annual and sick leave.
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
Comparison Table: Candidate Qualifications
| Feature | Essential Requirement | Preferred Attribute |
|---|---|---|
| License | Current & Unrestricted | Multi-state compact license |
| Clinical Experience | Basic RRT competencies | 1+ year in ICU settings |
| Ventilation Skills | Basic airway management | Advanced mechanical ventilation |
Application Tips
Ensure your application is complete by using the VA-provided standard resume template. Highlight your specific experience with arterial blood gases, suctioning, and ventilator management to ensure your skills are clearly visible to hiring managers.
Serving our Veterans is a profound responsibility. If you have the clinical skills, the dedication, and the passion for respiratory care, we invite you to join the Wilmington VA team and help us provide the highest standard of care to our nation's heroes.
Why This Registered Respiratory Therapist Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the Wilmington VA Medical Center as a Registered Respiratory Therapist.
Registered Respiratory Therapist Job Overview
The Wilmington VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) to join our Clinical Support Care Line. In this vital role, you will perform essential diagnostic and therapeutic respiratory care, ensuring our Veterans receive the high-quality, compassionate treatment they deserve. This position offers the chance to work alongside a multidisciplinary healthcare team to improve patient outcomes through clinical excellence.
Requirements for Registered Respiratory Therapist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current, full, and unrestricted state licensure as an RRT
- Valid, current, and unrestricted RRT credential
- Completion of a CoARC-accredited respiratory care program
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Successful completion of a background and security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical evaluation and drug screening
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Respiratory Therapist
- At least one year of professional Intensive Care Unit (ICU) experience
- Demonstrated ability to perform advanced airway management and ventilation
- Strong collaborative skills for interdisciplinary consultation
- Experience with diagnostic monitoring tools such as arterial blood gases and capnography
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and pay schedules
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Paid annual leave and sick leave accrual
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Work-life balance initiatives
- ✓Recognition of prior federal service for leave accrual
💡 How to Apply Registered Respiratory Therapist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Respiratory Therapist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume, specifically using the Clinical Resume Document provided by the VA.
- Gather necessary documentation including your license, transcripts, and SF-50 forms if applicable.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the August 10, 2026, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; avoid generic descriptions and clearly detail your clinical experience.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates one year of time-in-grade if you are a current federal employee.
- Double-check that all required documents, especially your license and transcript, are attached.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues as the deadline approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ICU experience mandatory?
While it is not listed as an absolute hard requirement for all grade levels, at least one year of ICU experience is highly preferred for the successful candidate.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. Citizen?
Generally, U.S. citizenship is a requirement. Exceptions exist only in specific circumstances where qualified citizens are not available.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position located at the Wilmington VA Medical Center in Delaware.
What is the work schedule?
*A: This is an intermittent position; hours are assigned based on facility needs.*
Do I need to be vaccinated?
*A: Yes, participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program is a condition of employment for VHA healthcare personnel.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to honor President Lincoln's promise: to care for those who have served in our military and their families. Working at the Wilmington VAMC means becoming part of a community that values clinical excellence, integrity, and respect for our Veterans.