Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C)
Location: Rapid City, SD
Job Type: Locum
Company: Palm Careers
Category: Healthcare
Job Description Apply Now
The role of Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) offers a dynamic and rewarding opportunity for qualified healthcare professionals to contribute to a high-performing cardiovascular and thoracic surgery team. This full-scope position emphasizes hands-on surgical involvement, comprehensive patient care, and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. The Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) position is critical for delivering exceptional perioperative care, providing first-assist support in the operating room, and managing patients through all phases of their surgical experience. If you are seeking a role that blends advanced clinical skills with meaningful patient interaction and professional growth, this opportunity is designed for you.
The Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) will be immersed in a setting that values precision, teamwork, and compassionate care. With a majority of time spent in the operating room, the position requires proficiency in advanced surgical procedures, postoperative management, and interdepartmental coordination. The role is ideal for those who thrive in fast-paced environments and are eager to continuously expand their clinical expertise. The employment type offers flexibility, with consideration for contract, permanent, or locum-to-permanent arrangements to suit your career goals.
Professionals in the Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) role are entrusted with responsibilities spanning inpatient and outpatient care. The position features a balanced schedule, including rotational call coverage and the ability to work closely with renowned surgeons and support staff. Candidates will have the opportunity to mentor medical students, participate in innovative procedures, and enhance their skills in a supportive and collaborative environment. The unique setting of this role also provides a peaceful and inspiring locale, appealing to those who appreciate a blend of professional challenge and personal fulfillment in their surroundings.
Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) - Summary- Full-scope position supporting cardiovascular and thoracic surgery
- Predominantly operating room-based responsibilities (approximately 80% OR time)
- Engagement in inpatient and outpatient care, including pre- and postoperative management
- Flexible employment type including contract, permanent, and locum-to-permanent options
- Function as a first-assist in the operating room for a range of cardiovascular, thoracic, and vascular surgeries
- Participate in procedures such as CABG, AVR, MVR, mitral valve repair, Bentall procedures, aortic root work, aortic dissections, Convergent, MAZE, PVI, thoracotomies, VATS, lobectomies, fem-pop, ax-fem-fem, AAA, aneurysm repair, fistula creation, and thoracic trauma interventions
- Perform endoscopic and open vessel harvesting
- Manage preoperative and postoperative patient care, including ICU and floor management from perioperative phase through discharge
- Conduct consultations and routine rounds for post-surgical patients
- Oversee outpatient clinic management, including aortic aneurysm surveillance, incision and drainage (I&D), and routine wound care
- Participate in monthly mentoring of medical students and support their clinical rotations
- Rotate on-call duties, including weekend coverage as scheduled
- Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and employment arrangement
- Comprehensive benefits offered for eligible employment types
- Opportunities for contract extension or conversion to permanent employment
- Supportive, multidisciplinary team environment
- Graduate of an accredited Physician Assistant program
- Current PA-C certification
- Experience in cardiovascular, thoracic, or vascular surgery strongly preferred
- Demonstrated proficiency in first-assist surgical techniques and perioperative care
- Ability to work flexible schedules, including rotational call and extended shifts as required
- Strong communication and collaboration skills across all levels of care
- Commitment to ongoing professional development and mentorship
- Detail-oriented and adaptable, with a passion for high-acuity surgical care
- Motivated to enhance clinical skills in a diverse surgical setting
- Team player who values multidisciplinary collaboration
- Willingness to mentor and support the next generation of healthcare professionals
- Desire to work in a peaceful, outdoor-friendly location with a supportive community
- This position offers exposure to a wide array of complex surgical procedures and ongoing mentorship opportunities
- The surrounding area is renowned for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational activities, making it a desirable location for professionals seeking work-life balance
- Employment arrangements are flexible, with opportunities for contract, permanent, or blended locum-to-perm roles to suit various career paths
- Join an organization committed to clinical excellence, patient-centered care, and continuous learning
If you are ready to take the next step in your career as a Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C), we encourage you to apply now by clicking the job application button. Enhance your clinical expertise, make a meaningful impact, and become an integral part of a renowned surgical team!