Flight Respiratory Therapist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of modern medicine, the role of flight respiratory therapists has become paramount.

As medical emergencies and patient care evolve, there’s an escalating demand for skilled professionals who can provide respiratory care in flight, ensuring the safe and comfortable transportation of patients.

But what’s the real expectation from a flight respiratory therapist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the crux of this role,
• A healthcare recruiter outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of flight respiratory therapy,

You’re at the right spot.

Today, we present a customizable flight respiratory therapist job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Flight Respiratory Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

Flight Respiratory Therapists are responsible for providing respiratory care to critically ill or injured patients during transport.

They work closely with other healthcare providers during emergency medical situations, often in airborne conditions.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assessing patients’ respiratory conditions and determining the appropriate course of treatment
• Administering oxygen, aerosol therapy, and other respiratory treatments during transport
• Monitoring patients’ vital signs and modifying respiratory therapies as needed
• Assisting with patient intubation and providing ventilator support
• Coordinating with pilots and medical staff to ensure patient safety during flights
• Documenting patient information, treatment plans, and responses to therapies
• Adhering to transport protocols and aviation safety standards
• Ensuring respiratory equipment is functioning properly and is ready for use

 

Flight Respiratory Therapist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a highly skilled Flight Respiratory Therapist to join our team.

Your primary role will be to provide in-flight respiratory care to patients being transported by air.

This includes administering oxygen, monitoring patient vital signs, and maintaining and operating life support systems.

An ideal candidate should have outstanding problem-solving skills, the ability to work under pressure, and a deep knowledge of respiratory care principles and procedures.

 

Responsibilities

• Administering emergency care, including artificial respiration and assisting in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
• Operating and maintaining equipment related to respiratory care.
• Monitoring patients’ vital signs and making necessary adjustments during flight.
• Collaborating with flight crew and medical personnel to ensure patient safety and comfort.
• Preparing patients for transport, including intubating and ventilating when necessary.
• Writing patient reports and maintaining appropriate records.
• Adhering to all safety regulations and protocols.
• Participating in educational programs and workshops to improve professional competence.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Respiratory Therapist, preferably in a flight environment.
• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and physical condition.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure.
• Knowledge of medical procedures, terminology, and equipment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A Bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Care or a related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Flight Respiratory Therapist
• Work Environment: In-flight medical transport. This role requires flexibility with schedules as it may include working nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Medical Officer or Flight Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Flight Respiratory Therapist Do?

A Flight Respiratory Therapist, also known as an Aeromedical Respiratory Therapist, is a specialized healthcare professional who provides critical care to patients during air transport.

They work closely with flight nurses and physicians in air ambulances, performing tasks such as ventilator management, airway management, administering medication, and performing critical care procedures.

They are responsible for monitoring the patient’s respiratory conditions and providing treatments such as oxygen therapy, aerosol therapy, and mechanical ventilation.

Flight Respiratory Therapists also have a key role in stabilizing patients during flight and preparing them for transport.

This may involve configuring and checking life support equipment, monitoring vital signs and adjusting therapy as needed.

Their role also extends to patient education and counseling, providing guidance and answering queries about their respiratory conditions, treatment plans and lifestyle changes.

They must maintain a high level of competency in critical care and emergency medicine due to the unpredictable nature of their work and the critical condition of the patients they care for.

 

Flight Respiratory Therapist Qualifications and Skills

A qualified Flight Respiratory Therapist should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications to perform their duties effectively, such as:

• Deep understanding and knowledge of respiratory therapy techniques and procedures, as well as the ability to apply these in a high-stress environment, such as in-flight.
• Ability to monitor, interpret and respond to changes in patients’ conditions, providing prompt and appropriate therapeutic interventions.
• Exceptional critical thinking and problem-solving skills to make fast, accurate decisions under pressure.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact with patients, families, and the medical team effectively and compassionately.
• Physical stamina and the ability to respond quickly in emergencies, which may include lifting and moving patients, and performing CPR.
• Understanding of aviation medicine and the specific challenges it presents, such as altitude physiology and the effects of reduced atmospheric pressure on the body.
• Knowledge of and ability to operate respiratory therapy equipment, including oxygen delivery systems, mechanical ventilators, and airway management devices.
• Must be able to handle stressful situations calmly and effectively, providing emotional support to patients and their families.
• Adherence to medical and aviation regulations and safety standards.
• Must hold a valid Respiratory Therapist License and possess the necessary certifications to practice in a flight environment.

 

Flight Respiratory Therapist Experience Requirements

Flight Respiratory Therapists typically require a minimum of 3-5 years of critical care and emergency experience.

This extensive clinical experience is often gained by working in intensive care units (ICUs), emergency departments, and other high acuity areas of healthcare.

Entry-level candidates can gain initial experience through internships or part-time roles in hospitals or other healthcare facilities, where they learn to handle respiratory therapies and manage patient care.

After gaining basic experience, these professionals must then complete additional training in flight medicine and transport.

This can include acquiring a certification such as the Certified Flight Registered Respiratory Therapist (CFRRT) from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).

Candidates with 5 or more years of experience often have advanced skills in critical care, emergency medicine, and patient transport, making them well suited for more senior roles or team leadership positions within the flight respiratory therapy field.

Additionally, due to the demanding and critical nature of this role, candidates must also have experience in utilizing ventilators, oxygen delivery systems, and other respiratory care equipment in high-stress situations, often on air medical transport missions.

Furthermore, Flight Respiratory Therapists must have experience in handling and adapting to the unique challenges associated with altitude changes and confined spaces, making flight experience crucial for this role.

 

Flight Respiratory Therapist Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a Flight Respiratory Therapist requires a specialized set of education and training requirements.

Firstly, candidates must complete a two-year associate degree or a four-year bachelor’s degree program in respiratory therapy.

This education must be provided through a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care or the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

Upon graduation, candidates must pass a national exam administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT).

After gaining some experience in critical care settings, respiratory therapists can go on to earn their Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential, which requires passing an additional exam and demonstrating a higher level of clinical competence.

In terms of flight-specific preparation, therapists must have significant experience in emergency or intensive care, as well as being comfortable with in-flight medical equipment and the unique challenges that come with providing care in an aerial environment.

Specifically, to work as a Flight Respiratory Therapist, individuals must complete a transport-specific training and orientation program.

This may include education on aviation safety, flight physiology, survival skills, and critical care transport protocols.

Moreover, therapists should possess or pursue certifications in Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, and Neonatal Resuscitation.

Finally, maintaining physical fitness and completing a flight physical exam is often required due to the physically demanding nature of the job.

Continuous professional development and education are also important to stay updated with the latest treatments, techniques, and technologies in the field.

 

Flight Respiratory Therapist Salary Expectations

A Flight Respiratory Therapist earns an average salary of $60,700 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can significantly vary based on the years of experience, level of education, geographical location, and the employing company.

 

Flight Respiratory Therapist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Flight Respiratory Therapist need?

A Flight Respiratory Therapist should have excellent clinical skills, especially in relation to the respiratory system.

They should be able to rapidly assess and treat patients, often in high-stress or emergency situations.

They also need strong communication skills to effectively interact with patients, their families, and the rest of the medical team.

As this is a physically demanding job often requiring transport of equipment, a good level of physical fitness is also important.

 

What qualifications does a Flight Respiratory Therapist need?

Flight Respiratory Therapists should have a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in respiratory therapy, along with a state license to practice.

Additionally, they should have a number of years of clinical experience, particularly in critical care or emergency medicine.

Certifications such as Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) may also be required.

 

What should you look for in a Flight Respiratory Therapist resume?

When reviewing a Flight Respiratory Therapist’s resume, you should first check for the appropriate education and licensure.

Look for a history of work in critical care or emergency medicine, as this experience is crucial for the high-pressure situations often encountered in-flight.

Certifications related to advanced life support can also be a good indicator of an applicant’s skills and experience.

Additionally, any experience or training in aviation medicine can be a bonus.

 

What qualities make a good Flight Respiratory Therapist?

A good Flight Respiratory Therapist should be able to remain calm under pressure and make quick decisions in emergency situations.

They need to be compassionate, as they will be dealing with patients and families in stressful circumstances.

Good physical stamina is also necessary, as the job can be physically demanding.

Finally, they should have a keen attention to detail to ensure all procedures are carried out accurately and safely.

 

Is it challenging to hire Flight Respiratory Therapists?

Hiring Flight Respiratory Therapists can be a challenge due to the specific skills and experience required for the role.

Not only do they need to be skilled respiratory therapists, but they also need experience in critical care, emergency medicine, and potentially aviation medicine.

Therefore, a comprehensive and attractive job package may be necessary to attract the right candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the detailed world of being a flight respiratory therapist.

Surprise?

It’s not just about administering respiratory treatments.

It’s about crafting a healthier future, one breath at a time.

Armed with our detailed flight respiratory therapist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take off.

But why end the journey there?

Take a deeper dive with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every breath is a part of the bigger picture.

Let’s create a healthier future. Together.

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