Director, Respiratory Therapy in Chadron, Nebraska at Chadron Community Hospital, Corp.

Full-time, 40 hours/week, Salary, Exempt.

Flexible hours shared with additional RT.

Will include on-call, holidays, and weekends.

Benefited position after 60-day waiting period.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Director of Respiratory Therapy is responsible for the overall strategic management, operational administration, and clinical excellence of the Respiratory Care Department. This leadership role performs and ensures the delivery of safe, high-quality respiratory care across inpatient, emergency, and out-patient services. The Director manages departmental staffing, budget allocation, policy implementation, and regulatory compliance, striking a balance between clinical oversight and direct leadership of staff respiratory therapists.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Departmental Leadership & Operations

• Oversee daily operations of the respiratory department, ensuring adequate staffing coverage and efficient workflows.
• Develop, implement, and maintain departmental policies, protocols, and clinical procedures in alignment with state regulations and Chadron Hospital guidelines.
• Manage the department budget, overseeing resources, equipment procurement, and cost-control initiatives.
• Maintain quality control and ensure compliance with all federal, state, and accreditation standards.

Clinical Oversight & Quality Assurance

• Establish therapeutic objectives and participate in peer clinical evaluations to uphold high standards of patient care.
• Ensure proper maintenance, calibration, and problem-solving protocols for critical respiratory care equipment, including mechanical ventilators.
• Collaborate closely with physicians, nursing leadership, and the emergency care team to coordinate multi-disciplinary care.
• Uphold and perform the same Core Responsibilities as the staff Respiratory Therapist

Staff Management & Development

• Recruit, hire, train, and evaluate the performance of certified and registered respiratory therapists.
• Promote continuous education and verify that all department personnel maintain required certifications (RRT, BLS, ACLS, PALS, NRP).
• Cultivate a productive workspace by modeling strong communication and interpersonal skills among patients, families, and healthcare providers.

EDUCATION/LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION:

• Graduate of an accredited Respiratory Care program.
• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) or Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credentialed by NBRC.
• Current Nebraska State License as a Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) or eligible to obtain before hire.
• Active Certifications: Basic Life Support (BLS), required.
• The following must be obtained upon hire or within a designated timeframe: Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum of 5 years of clinical experience as a practicing Respiratory Therapist.
• Minimum of 3 years of progressive supervisory or managerial experience in a hospital setting, preferably within a critical access or rural community healthcare facility.