Supervisory Registered Respiratory Therapist

Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Education. Individuals must have successfully completed a respiratory care program accredited by the CoARC or its successor. Licensure. Persons appointed or reassigned to RRT positions in the GS-0601 series must possess and maintain for the duration of employment a full, current and unrestricted license from a state to practice as an RRT. Credential. Persons appointed or reassigned to RRT positions in the GS-0601 series must possess and maintain for the duration of employment a valid, current, unrestricted credential of RRT. English Language Proficiency. RTs/RRTs appointed to direct patient-care positions must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f). Grade Determinations: Supervisory Registered Respiratory Therapist, GS-13. Experience, Licensure and Credential. Candidate must: Have one year of creditable experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level demonstrating the clinical competencies described at that level. It is highly desirable that the candidate possess certification in one or more functional specialties. Hold an active license and RRT credential. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: In addition to the requirements above, candidates must demonstrate all the following KSAs: Ability to supervise employees. Ability to assist in establishing a completely integrated program. Skill in recommending improvements to operations, including new and emerging procedures based on evaluation of data. Ability to forecast resource needs and to manage fiscal matters. Skill in problem solving including conflict resolution. Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with employees at varying levels of background. Knowledge of complex and non-standard examinations, treatments, procedures and techniques. Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. Physical Requirements: All respiratory therapists will have extensive interaction with patients, staff, physicians, family members, and visitors. The respiratory therapist is expected to be able to move, lift, bend, and stoop while performing duties with equipment, supplies, and patients. Respiratory therapists must demonstrate the ability to handle stressful, challenging situations in a positive manner.
This assignment is an Assistant Chief position above full performance level. RRTs at this grade level work independently providing respiratory care in both inpatient and/or outpatient settings. They use data and patient assessment to establish appropriate plan of care and determine if outcomes are being met. They consult with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure quality of patient care within area of specialty.