Director of Respiratory

Position Summary

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Respiratory Services to lead and oversee our respiratory care program within a skilled nursing/long-term care setting. This role is responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-quality respiratory services, maintaining regulatory compliance, and driving optimal resident outcomes.

The Director will provide leadership to respiratory staff and work in close collaboration with the Pulmonologist, ENT, and Medical Director to coordinate and enhance resident care.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Oversight

Direct and oversee all respiratory care services, including oxygen therapy, nebulizer treatments, ventilator management, CPAP/BiPAP, and tracheostomy care
Develop, implement, and evaluate individualized respiratory care plans
Provide clinical leadership during respiratory events and emergencies
Ensure strict adherence to infection control standards

Medical Collaboration

Partner with the Pulmonologist on ventilator management, weaning protocols, and complex pulmonary cases
Coordinate with ENT specialists on tracheostomy care and airway management
Collaborate with the Medical Director to align respiratory services with facility-wide clinical standards
Participate in clinical rounds and interdisciplinary team meetings

Leadership & Operations

Supervise respiratory staff, including scheduling, training, competency validation, and performance management
Provide education and support to nursing staff on respiratory treatments and equipment
Ensure adequate staffing coverage at all times

Regulatory Compliance & Quality

Ensure compliance with CMS, DOH, OSHA, and infection control regulations
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of respiratory services
Lead survey readiness and regulatory compliance efforts
Monitor clinical outcomes (hospital transfers, infections, respiratory incidents) and implement quality improvement initiatives

Equipment & Program Management

Oversee maintenance, cleaning, and proper utilization of respiratory equipment
Ensure availability of necessary supplies, including oxygen and ventilator equipment
Develop and maintain respiratory care policies and procedures

Qualifications

Licensed Respiratory Therapist (RRT or CRT) in the state of employment
Minimum of 3-5 years of clinical respiratory care experience
ICU and/or critical care experience strongly preferred
Experience in long-term care, subacute, or ventilator-dependent populations preferred
Prior supervisory or leadership experience preferred
Demonstrated expertise in ventilator management, tracheostomy care, and pulmonary best practices
Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills in acute respiratory situations

Core Competencies