Role overview
Respiratory Technicians are healthcare professionals who specialise in performing diagnostic respiratory tests and supporting sleep studies under the supervision of qualified Respiratory and Sleep Scientists. In Australian clinical practice, these technicians work primarily with patients requiring assessment of lung function or monitoring during sleep studies. They operate and maintain specialised diagnostic equipment used to measure respiratory capacity and function, providing essential data to medical teams for diagnosis and treatment planning.
The role requires technical proficiency with medical equipment and the ability to work closely with patients who may have breathing difficulties. Respiratory Technicians typically work in hospital settings, sleep clinics, or specialist respiratory practices across Australia. Their work supports the diagnosis and management of conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and sleep apnoea.
Key tasks in practice
Respiratory Technicians perform a range of clinical and technical duties including:
- Conducting routine lung function tests such as spirometry to assess patients' breathing capacity
- Assisting with sleep studies by preparing equipment and monitoring patients overnight
- Operating and maintaining diagnostic equipment including calibrating devices and troubleshooting technical issues
- Monitoring patients who require mechanical ventilation to ensure equipment functions correctly
- Supporting Respiratory Scientists by preparing test results and maintaining patient records
Skill level explanation
OSCA classifies Respiratory Technicians at Skill Level 2, which indicates occupations typically requiring an AQF Certificate III or IV qualification, or at least two years of relevant experience. In practice, many Australian employers seek candidates with vocational education and training qualifications in health services assistance or technical roles.
This skill level reflects that technicians work under professional supervision rather than operating independently. The role requires technical competence with medical equipment and understanding of clinical procedures, but not the advanced diagnostic interpretation or treatment planning responsibilities of higher-qualified healthcare professionals.
Industry context
Respiratory Technicians are primarily employed in healthcare settings corresponding to ANZSIC industry codes including hospitals (8411), medical services (8511), and other health care services (8599). The role is most commonly found in public and private hospital respiratory departments and specialised sleep clinics.
Employment opportunities exist across Australia, particularly in larger metropolitan areas with major hospitals and specialist respiratory services. The role may also be found in community health settings, rehabilitation centres, and with companies that supply and maintain respiratory equipment. Workforce demand is influenced by prevalence of respiratory conditions and availability of diagnostic services.