What Does a RCP Do?

A Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) evaluates, treats, and monitors patients with breathing and cardiopulmonary conditions. Depending on the facility, respiratory therapists (RTs) care for newborns, children, adults, or critically ill patients.

Typical responsibilities include:

  • Assess patients with asthma, COPD, pneumonia, and other respiratory conditions.

  • Administer oxygen therapy, aerosol medications, and other respiratory treatments.

  • Operate and monitor ventilators and other respiratory care equipment.

  • Perform diagnostic tests, including pulmonary function testing and arterial blood gas collection.

  • Educate patients and families on treatment plans and respiratory care techniques.

  • Work with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to support patient care.

Requirements vary by employer. However, most RCP jobs require strong clinical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to respond quickly in fast-paced healthcare settings.

Respiratory Therapist Jobs in California

California continues to have a strong demand for respiratory care professionals. As a result, healthcare facilities regularly seek qualified respiratory therapists for temporary and contract roles. 

Intuitive Health Services currently has openings in several California cities and facilities. These opportunities allow you to choose an assignment that fits your location and career goals.

Current jobs are available in:

  • Atascadero, CA

  • Coalinga, CA

  • Napa, CA

  • Patton, CA

  • Vacaville, CA

  • Centinela-area facilities 

  • Imperial-area facilities

Respiratory Care Practitioner Requirements in California

You need a valid Respiratory Care Practitioner license issued by the Respiratory Care Board of California (RCB). Employers may also require additional certifications depending on the assignment.

Education

California-licensed RCPs must meet the state's continuing education requirements to renew their licenses. This includes completing the required 30 hours of continuing education during each two-year renewal period, including applicable law and ethics education.

If you hold an RCP license from another state, check California's current continuing education requirements to determine which courses and credits are accepted for renewal. 

Licensure

To obtain a California RCP license, applicants generally must:

  • Pass the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination at the required cut score, or hold the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential, as applicable to California licensure.

  • Submit an application to RCB.

  • Complete fingerprinting and a background check. 

Have a respiratory care license in another state? You must still obtain a California Respiratory Care Practitioner license before practicing in California.

Certifications

Many employers also require a current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. However, in some cases, Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) or Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) certification may also be preferred or required.

Remember that certification and experience requirements can vary by employer. So always review the job posting carefully. 

How Much Do Respiratory Care Practitioners Earn?

The salary for respiratory therapists (RTs) depends on factors such as experience, location, employer, and assignment type. 

At Intuitive Health Services, current respiratory care practitioner jobs start at $52 per hour

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow 12% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS also projects about 8,800 job openings each year, on average. 

Why Work With Intuitive Health Services?

Finding the right RCP job is about more than pay. Here’s what partnering with Intuitive Health Services means:

Competitive Pay

Current Respiratory Care Practitioner jobs start at $52 per hour. As new assignments become available, we continue to expand opportunities across California. This gives qualified RCPs more options when choosing their next role.

Credentialing Support

Our team helps with credentialing and application processing. This allows you to complete the hiring process more efficiently and prepare for your assignment.

Flexible Payment Options

Choose the payment schedule that works best for you. We offer weekly, biweekly, and monthly payments, along with free direct deposit.

Dedicated Recruiter Support

You'll have a dedicated consultant throughout your assignment. They can answer questions, provide updates, and help you find future opportunities.

Flexible Assignments

Every respiratory therapist has different career goals. Choose from temporary, contract, travel, or per diem opportunities based on your schedule and preferred work environment.

Find Your Next Respiratory Care Practitioner Job

Ready for your next opportunity? Intuitive Health Services connects qualified Respiratory Care Practitioners with flexible, high-paying assignments across California.

Contact our healthcare recruiters today to learn more about current openings and find a Respiratory Care Practitioner job that matches your skills and career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do I need to apply for Respiratory Care Practitioner jobs?

Most positions require an active professional state license, a current BLS certification, and relevant clinical experience. Review each job posting for assignment-specific requirements.

Does Intuitive Health Services help with credentialing?

Yes. We assist qualified candidates with credentialing and application processing. You’ll be fully prepared for your assignment.

Can I apply if there isn't a Respiratory Care Practitioner job in my preferred city?

Yes. New opportunities are added regularly. You can apply to join our talent network. Our recruiters can notify you when a suitable assignment becomes available.

Will I work with the same recruiter throughout the hiring process?

Yes. Intuitive Health Services provides a dedicated recruiter who can answer questions and share job updates. They will also guide you through the hiring process.

This page has been reviewed for accuracy by the Intuitive Health Services Clinical Compliance Team on August 5, 2026. Licensing, certification, and employment requirements may vary by state, specialty, and healthcare facility.