Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C)
Location: Winchester, VA
Job Type: Locum
Company: Palm Careers
Category: Healthcare
Job Description Apply Now
The Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) plays a vital role in a dynamic cardiac surgery group, providing expert clinical care and surgical first-assist support to a highly skilled team of cardiothoracic and vascular surgeons. This position offers an exciting opportunity for experienced physician assistants with a strong background in endoscopic vein harvesting (EVH), cardiac operating room (OR) first assisting, and perioperative patient management. The role is available for both full-time permanent and contract employment types, providing flexibility for candidates seeking either long-term or locum opportunities.
As a Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C), you will be an integral member of a comprehensive team comprised of cardiac surgeons, vascular and thoracic surgeons, and fellow physician assistants. You will be responsible for supporting a wide range of complex cardiovascular procedures, including coronary artery bypass grafting, aortic valve surgery, minimally invasive cardiac surgery, aortic surgery, hybrid electrophysiology (EP) procedures, and endoscopic vein harvesting. While heart transplant procedures are not part of the current service line, the Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) will be exposed to the full spectrum of adult cardiothoracic surgical care.
Working in Central Virginia offers professionals a supportive healthcare community and access to state-of-the-art medical facilities that foster ongoing career development. The city’s vibrant environment and commitment to excellence make it an ideal location for medical professionals dedicated to advancing patient care.
The Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) position encompasses responsibilities in the operating room, intensive care unit (ICU), step-down, and surgical floor settings. Candidates will join a seasoned team of eight physician assistants, sharing in a supportive, collaborative atmosphere. The work schedule typically consists of five 8-hour shifts per week, with on-call responsibilities rotating one out of every six nights and one weekend out of every four, ensuring a balanced approach to work-life integration.
This role requires advanced clinical judgment, well-developed assessment skills, and a thorough understanding of sterile technique, infection control, surgical anatomy, and perioperative care. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as the Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) will interact with multidisciplinary teams, patients, and families from diverse backgrounds. Professionalism, adaptability, and the ability to function independently under physician supervision are key attributes for success in this position.
We encourage qualified candidates interested in furthering their careers in cardiothoracic surgery to apply today by clicking the job application button below.
Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) - Summary- Key member of a cardiac surgery group performing advanced cardiothoracic procedures
- First-assist support in the OR and perioperative patient care in ICU, step-down, and general surgical floors
- Open to full-time permanent and contract employment types
- Opportunities to work alongside experienced cardiac, vascular, and thoracic surgeons as well as fellow physician assistants
- Provide surgical first-assistance for cardiothoracic procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting, aortic valve surgery, minimally invasive cardiac surgery, aortic surgery, and hybrid electrophysiology procedures
- Perform endoscopic vein harvesting (EVH) and open vein harvesting as needed
- Deliver comprehensive perioperative patient care, including in the ICU, step-down units, and on surgical floors
- Collaborate effectively with surgeons, nurses, and allied health professionals to optimize patient outcomes
- Participate in on-call rotation, including nights and weekends as scheduled
- Maintain high standards of sterile technique and infection control throughout all clinical activities
- Assist in patient education, discharge planning, and follow-up care as needed
- Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and employment type
- Comprehensive benefits available for eligible employment types, including health, dental, and vision coverage
- Opportunities for professional growth, continuing education, and advancement within the organization
- Supportive work environment with experienced colleagues and resources for career development
- Graduate of an accredited Physician Assistant program (ARC-PA)
- Current NCCPA certification required
- Active or eligible for state licensure
- Current ACLS certification required
- Minimum two years of relevant physician assistant experience in cardiovascular/thoracic surgery preferred
- At least one year of experience in a critical care setting strongly desired
- Teaching experience in cardiovascular/thoracic topics is a plus
- Demonstrated knowledge and skill in sterile technique, surgical anatomy, physiology, operative procedures, and perioperative care
- Strong clinical assessment, analytical, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to thrive in high-pressure environments, including emergency situations
- Excellent communication with diverse care teams, patients, and families
- Ability to function independently under physician supervision
- Understanding of human growth and development as it relates to patient care
- Knowledge of statistics and research protocols is advantageous
- Experienced in endoscopic and open vein harvesting for cardiac surgery
- Proven record of effective teamwork and communication in multidisciplinary healthcare settings
- Detail-oriented, adaptable, and motivated to deliver superior patient outcomes
- Committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based practice
- Collaborative team environment with opportunities to participate in complex and advanced surgical cases
- Support for continuing education and professional growth
- Inclusive workplace culture that values diversity and promotes equal opportunity
- Apply now by clicking the job application button to join a leading cardiothoracic surgery team and make a meaningful impact in patient care