Respiratory Therapist (RT) - Pediatric Units - Weekend Program

About the Role

Respiratory Therapists at UVA Health are essential clinical partners in the care of patients with complex cardiopulmonary needs. The role involves assessing, planning, and providing therapeutic interventions to help patients recover from injuries, illnesses, or surgeries and improve their physical, emotional, and functional well‑being. Therapists work across acute, critical, and specialty care settings, collaborating closely with physicians, nurses, and interdisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Deliver respiratory care therapies and interventions in accordance with physician orders and evidence‑based protocols.
• Assess patient respiratory status and adjust treatment approaches based on clinical presentation and response to therapy.
• Manage and monitor mechanical ventilation, oxygen delivery systems, and airway support devices.
• Collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other care team members to develop and implement respiratory care plans.
• Provide patient and family education related to respiratory conditions, therapies, and equipment.
• Document care accurately and consistently to support continuity, quality, and safety.
• Participate in multidisciplinary rounds and care discussions, responding to emergent respiratory needs.

Requirements

• Graduate of a CoARC‑accredited respiratory therapy program.
• Minimum 12 months of acute/critical care respiratory therapy clinical experience.
• Active Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) license in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• American Heart Association (AHA) Health Care Provider BLS certification.
• Active NBRC Specialty Credential (e.g., RRT‑ACCS, RRT‑NPS) expected within 2 years of hire.

Physical Requirements

• Standing for prolonged periods.
• Frequent traveling, bending, and stooping.
• Ability to lift/push/pull 20–50 lb.
• Proficient communicative, auditory, and visual skills; attention to detail and legible writing.
• Potential exposure to chemicals, blood/body fluids, and infectious disease.

Schedule

The Weekend Program offers a weekend‑only shift schedule with enhanced compensation. It is a 12‑month commitment to work 48 scheduled weekends in a 12‑month period, beginning with the first shift worked.

Pay

The pay range for this role is $34.01 – $48.21 hourly. Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate’s qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off, long‑term and short‑term disability.
• Retirement savings plans, health‑saving plans, and flexible spending accounts.
• Certification and education support.
• Generous paid time off.

Relocation Assistance

Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.

Why UVA Health

UVA Health is a Magnet‑recognized academic medical center and Level 1 trauma center. Therapists work alongside attending physicians, residents, fellows, and advanced practice providers in a true teaching hospital. The environment offers high‑acuity clinical exposure, professional respect, collaboration, and support for innovation and evidence‑based practice. Respiratory therapy is a strategic role in delivering advanced, life‑sustaining care across the health system.

Living in Charlottesville

Charlottesville provides an exceptional quality of life with access to outdoor recreation, scenic trails, four distinct seasons, a vibrant food scene, arts and music culture, and a university community. The area offers a welcoming atmosphere, strong schools, and a cost of living that is approachable compared to many large metropolitan areas, making it an ideal place for clinicians and families to thrive.