Respiratory Care Equipment Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this era of advanced medical technology, the role of respiratory care equipment technicians is becoming increasingly critical.

As healthcare technology advances, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can maintain, repair, and ensure the proper functioning of our respiratory care equipment.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a respiratory care equipment technician?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the specifics of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the intricate details of respiratory care equipment technology,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable respiratory care equipment technician job description template, designed for convenient posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Respiratory Care Equipment Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Respiratory Care Equipment Technicians are responsible for maintaining, repairing, and managing respiratory medical equipment in healthcare facilities.

They provide a crucial role in ensuring that this life-supporting equipment is in good working condition to support the respiratory needs of patients.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Inspect and test respiratory therapy equipment to ensure it is functioning safely and efficiently
• Perform regular maintenance and troubleshooting on respiratory therapy equipment
• Repair or replace defective parts in respiratory therapy equipment
• Maintain inventory control of respiratory therapy equipment and parts
• Install and set up respiratory therapy equipment at patients’ bedside
• Keep records of respiratory equipment inspections, tests, maintenance, and repairs
• Explain and demonstrate the correct use of respiratory care equipment to healthcare staff and patients
• Order parts and supplies needed for equipment repair and maintenance
• Stay updated with the latest technology in respiratory care equipment
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards

 

Respiratory Care Equipment Technician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled Respiratory Care Equipment Technician to join our healthcare team.

The candidate will be responsible for testing, maintaining, and repairing respiratory care equipment to ensure it functions safely and effectively.

This includes ventilators, oxygen concentrators, and other breathing apparatus.

Our ideal candidate has a deep understanding of respiratory care equipment and a commitment to patient safety and comfort.

This professional will work closely with healthcare professionals to provide the best care for our patients.

 

Responsibilities

• Inspect, test, and maintain respiratory therapy equipment to ensure equipment functions safely and effectively.
• Perform routine equipment setup for patient use.
• Calibrate respiratory therapy equipment for patient use.
• Repair, replace or adjust necessary equipment parts.
• Disassemble, clean, sterilize, and reassemble respiratory equipment following procedures.
• Maintain a record of routine maintenance and repairs.
• Assist in training staff and other healthcare professionals on proper equipment use.
• Order parts and supplies as needed.
• Adhere to infection-control policies and protocols.

 

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Completion of a Respiratory Equipment Technician program or equivalent work experience.
• Experience in a healthcare setting preferred.
• Understanding of the principles of electronics and pneumatics related to respiratory care equipment.
• Strong mechanical ability and manual dexterity.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lift and move heavy equipment.
• Strong communication skills to interact with staff and patients.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Respiratory Care Equipment Technician
• Work Environment: Clinical setting with occasional patient interaction.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Respiratory Therapy Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $60,000 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 Respiratory Care Equipment Technician Do?

Respiratory Care Equipment Technicians typically work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities, where they play a crucial role in maintaining the medical equipment used in respiratory therapy.

Their primary responsibility is the inspection, testing, maintenance, and repair of respiratory therapy equipment, which includes ventilators, oxygen concentrators, and nebulizer machines among others.

They ensure that these life-saving devices are functioning accurately and efficiently.

They may also be responsible for installing equipment and providing instructions to the healthcare staff on how to use them properly.

This can involve demonstrating appropriate cleaning and maintenance procedures to prevent equipment malfunction and to ensure patient safety.

Respiratory Care Equipment Technicians may work closely with respiratory therapists, doctors, and other healthcare professionals to discuss equipment issues, provide updates on maintenance schedules, and participate in the purchase decision of new respiratory care equipment.

In emergency situations, these technicians are often on-call to provide immediate repair or replacement of faulty equipment.

Their job role also includes maintaining records of all inspections, repairs, and maintenance activities for compliance with regulations and for future reference.

Overall, their main goal is to ensure that all respiratory care equipment is in optimal working condition to support patient care.

 

Respiratory Care Equipment Technician Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Respiratory Care Equipment Technician should possess the skills and qualifications that are congruent with the job role, such as:

• Technical knowledge and understanding of respiratory care equipment, including ventilators, oxygen delivery devices, and airway management tools.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure the proper functioning of the equipment, as any malfunctions can directly impact the patient’s health.
• Problem-solving skills to diagnose and fix equipment malfunctions in a timely and efficient manner.
• Understanding of safety protocols and standards to prevent accidents and ensure the safe use of respiratory care equipment.
• Communication skills to effectively explain the use and maintenance of equipment to healthcare staff and to report any equipment issues.
• Ability to multitask and manage time well to handle multiple equipment checks and repairs in a timely manner.
• Physical stamina, as the role may require standing for long periods and lifting or moving heavy equipment.
• Basic computer skills to document maintenance and repair activities, and to use software for troubleshooting equipment issues.

 

Respiratory Care Equipment Technician Experience Requirements

Respiratory Care Equipment Technicians often start their careers by completing a relevant vocational or associate’s degree program, such as biomedical equipment technology, which will provide them with the required technical knowledge and practical experience in the field.

Entry-level technicians may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships, part-time roles, or on-the-job training in hospitals or medical equipment repair companies.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of a range of respiratory care equipment and can troubleshoot and repair such equipment more efficiently.

These professionals might have gained their experience in roles such as Biomedical Equipment Technician, Respiratory Therapist, or similar healthcare technology roles.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience and the ability to manage or supervise a team of technicians, as well as the skills to train junior technicians.

They may have gained this level of experience by working in larger hospitals or medical centers, and might be ready for roles such as Senior Biomedical Equipment Technician or Biomedical Equipment Supervisor.

In addition to this experience, technicians are often required to have certification from a recognized organization such as the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI), which provides further proof of their skills and expertise in the field.

 

Respiratory Care Equipment Technician Education and Training Requirements

Respiratory Care Equipment Technicians, often referred to as respiratory therapists, typically need an associate degree from an accredited respiratory therapy program.

These programs train students in areas such as human anatomy and physiology, pathology, chemistry, physics, microbiology, and medical terminology.

In addition to this, clinical components of the course provide hands-on training with respiratory equipment and procedures, including how to assess patients, develop treatment plans, and monitor progress.

Most states require Respiratory Care Equipment Technicians to be licensed.

Licensing requirements usually include completion of a state-approved educational program and a passing score on a national examination.

Although not required, many technicians pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in respiratory therapy or a related field to increase their knowledge and improve their chances of advancement.

Some also choose to earn specialty certification in areas such as neonatal/pediatric care, sleep disorders testing, or critical care, which can enhance employability and advancement opportunities.

Continuing education is often required to maintain licensure and certification.

This commitment demonstrates a dedication to their field and to providing the highest level of patient care.

 

Respiratory Care Equipment Technician Salary Expectations

A Respiratory Care Equipment Technician can expect to earn an average salary of $45,000 (USD) per year.

However, this can fluctuate based on factors like level of experience, education, the location of work, and the size and type of the employing healthcare institution.

 

Respiratory Care Equipment Technician Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Respiratory Care Equipment Technician need?

Respiratory Care Equipment Technicians should have strong technical skills, as they will need to operate and maintain complex medical equipment.

They must also have good problem-solving skills to troubleshoot equipment issues and make necessary repairs.

Knowledge of safety and sanitation procedures is crucial to prevent infection and ensure the safety of patients.

Additionally, they should have strong communication skills to interact with healthcare professionals and explain equipment operation effectively.

 

What qualifications do Respiratory Care Equipment Technicians need?

Most Respiratory Care Equipment Technicians need a minimum of an associate degree in biomedical technology or a related field.

Some employers may require a bachelor’s degree.

They also typically require professional certification, such as the Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician (CBET) certification.

In addition, technicians should have a good understanding of respiratory care equipment and medical terminologies.

 

What should you look for in a Respiratory Care Equipment Technician resume?

Look for a formal education in a related field and certification in biomedical equipment technology.

Additionally, hands-on experience in maintaining and repairing respiratory care equipment is crucial.

Technical knowledge about various types of respiratory care equipment and knowledge of medical terminologies and safety procedures should be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good Respiratory Care Equipment Technician?

A good Respiratory Care Equipment Technician should be detail-oriented to ensure all equipment is operating correctly and safely.

They should be excellent problem solvers, able to identify and fix issues quickly to reduce downtime.

Strong communication skills are also important, as they will need to explain how equipment works to medical professionals.

Lastly, they should be adaptable, as they will need to stay up-to-date with advancements in respiratory care technology.

 

Is it difficult to hire Respiratory Care Equipment Technicians?

The demand for Respiratory Care Equipment Technicians is steadily growing, making it a competitive field.

However, finding candidates with the necessary technical skills, qualifications, and experience can be challenging.

An attractive recruitment strategy might include offering competitive salaries, continuous learning opportunities, and a supportive work environment.

 

Conclusion

And that’s a wrap.

Today, we’ve given you an inside look at what it means to be a Respiratory Care Equipment Technician.

Surprised?

It’s not just about maintaining equipment.

It’s about ensuring the smooth operation of life-saving devices, one check at a time.

With our detailed Respiratory Care Equipment Technician job description template and actual job scenarios, you’re ready to leap forward.

But why stop there?

Go the extra mile with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Keep in mind:

Every equipment check contributes to a greater cause.

Let’s create a healthier future. Together.

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