Respiratory Care Assistant at Appalachian Regional Healthcare System – Boone, North Carolina

Location: Boone, North Carolina | PRN / Student Role | Non-Exempt

As a Respiratory Care Assistant (RCA) at UNC Health Appalachian, you’ll gain valuable hands-on clinical experience while supporting respiratory care services for patients of all ages. This role is designed for students currently enrolled and in good standing with a recognized respiratory care education program and registered with the North Carolina Respiratory Care Board.

Working under established clinical guidelines and regulatory standards, you’ll assist with approved respiratory care procedures, respond to patient needs, and collaborate with respiratory therapists, nurses, physicians, and interdisciplinary teams. This position is ideal for students seeking real-world experience in a fast-paced, mission-driven healthcare environment.

Compensation: Starts at $17.87 per hour and is commensurate with education, experience, certification, and internal equity
Status: Non-Exempt
Benefits: Eligible for select employee programs and professional development opportunities in accordance with organizational policy.

Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone, North Carolina offers outstanding quality of life, outdoor recreation, and the energy of Appalachian State University.

• Perform approved respiratory care procedures within the scope defined by the North Carolina Respiratory Care Board.

• Provide respiratory care support to patients of all ages under appropriate supervision.

• Respond promptly and accurately to changes in patient condition and emergency situations.

• Communicate effectively and professionally with patients, families, physicians, and care team members.

• Demonstrate accountability, efficiency, and professionalism in daily practice.

• Assist coworkers, patients, families, and visitors as needed within scope of registration.

• Follow all regulatory requirements, hospital policies, and standards of behavior.

• Wear required identification and maintain compliance with registration and credentialing standards.

• Support a safe, respectful, and collaborative work environment.

• High School Diploma or GED required

• Current enrollment and good standing in a recognized respiratory care education program required

• No prior experience required

• Active registration/license as a Respiratory Care Assistant through the North Carolina Respiratory Care Board required

• Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association required at time of hire

• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) highly preferred

• Ability to communicate courteously and effectively with patients, families, staff, and physicians

• Ability to work within the chain of command using positive verbal and non-verbal communication

• Competence in delivering safe and effective care within legal and organizational guidelines

• Strong customer service skills with a patient-centered approach

• Basic understanding of workplace safety and compliance standards

• General knowledge of respiratory equipment handling and maintenance

• Awareness of confidentiality and privacy requirements (e.g., HIPAA)

• Understanding of professional conduct and ethical behavior in healthcare settings

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (8+ hours per shift)

• Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling of 50+ pounds

• Frequent bending, squatting, kneeling, twisting, turning, and reaching

• Frequent repetitive hand, finger, and wrist movements requiring moderate dexterity

• Frequent close visual work and ability to hear soft voices at a distance

• Occasional exposure to vibration, cramped spaces, and radiation

• Regular exposure to bloodborne pathogens and infectious materials

• Exposure to mechanical, electrical, and power equipment

• Exposure to odorous chemicals, specimens, and unpleasant environmental conditions

• Frequent response to emergency situations

• Requires flexibility to work days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays

Ready to build your nursing career in a place where compassion meets excellence?
Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian and make a lasting impact on patients, families, and the community we proudly serve.

About UNC Health Appalachian
UNC Health Appalachian is a premier healthcare provider in the High Country, operating three hospitals and a variety of medical services. We are committed to improving the health and quality of life for residents of the region.

About UNC Health
As part of the University of North Carolina system, UNC Health includes 14 hospitals and over 500 clinics, dedicated to advancing the health and well-being of North Carolinians.

Diversity and Inclusion
UNC Health Appalachian is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. Employment is contingent upon successful background checks and drug screening. For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.