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Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C)
Location: Sacramento, CA
Job Type: Locum
Company: Palm Careers
Category: Healthcare
The Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) role offers an exceptional opportunity to join a dynamic cardiac surgery team renowned for its excellence and collaborative environment. This full continuum of care position is designed for a highly skilled and motivated professional eager to contribute to advanced cardiac surgical care. Working alongside a team of three cardiac surgeons and multiple advanced practice providers (APPs), the Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) will play a vital role in the perioperative management of patients requiring complex cardiac procedures. The position is structured as a contract role, providing an opportunity for professionals seeking a challenging and rewarding assignment in a supportive and energetic setting.
The Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) will be deeply integrated into the surgical team, providing both first and second assist in the operating room (OR) with an emphasis on cardiac surgery cases such as open-heart procedures. Proficiency in Endovascular Vein Harvesting (EVH) is essential, as this skill is critical to the surgical workflow. In addition to core OR responsibilities, the successful candidate will manage patients across the continuum of care, including the intensive care unit (ICU), hospital floor, and, on occasion, the cardiac surgery clinic. The role also includes taking call, which may require responding to pages and participating in emergency nighttime surgeries. The schedule is designed to foster a positive work-life balance, with rotating shifts and minimal weekend requirements, supporting both professional excellence and personal well-being.
Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) - Summary
- Contract opportunity with the potential for extension
- Work with a highly respected cardiac surgery group
- Engage in a full spectrum perioperative role, including advanced surgical assistance and patient management
- Supportive, collaborative team environment featuring experienced cardiac surgeons and APPs
- Rotating schedule designed for optimal work-life balance
- Excellent professional development and learning opportunities
Duties & Responsibilities
- First and second assist in cardiac surgical procedures, including open heart surgeries
- Perform Endovascular Vein Harvesting (EVH) as a core component of surgical cases
- Manage pre-operative and post-operative care for cardiac surgery patients
- Oversee patient care in the ICU, hospital floor, and, when needed, outpatient clinic settings
- Participate in call rotation; respond to pages and emergencies, including after-hours OR coverage
- Work collaboratively with surgeons, fellow APPs, nursing staff, and ancillary personnel
- Provide comprehensive documentation and communicate patient status to the multidisciplinary team
- Maintain strict adherence to safety, quality, and compliance protocols
Salary & Benefits
- Competitive compensation commensurate with contract and experience
- Paid medical malpractice coverage
- Housing and travel accommodations provided for contract duration
- Travel-related expenses, including rental car or mileage reimbursement
- Supportive onboarding process with rapid start available
Qualifications & Requirements
- Graduate of an accredited Physician Assistant program
- Current certification as a Physician Assistant (PA-C)
- Proven experience in cardiothoracic or cardiac surgery settings
- Demonstrated proficiency in Endovascular Vein Harvesting (EVH)
- Strong clinical judgment and ability to function independently in high-acuity environments
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to participate in rotating call schedule, including nights and weekends as needed
- Commitment to patient safety, quality care, and professional standards
Ideal Candidate Snapshot
- Experienced in all phases of perioperative cardiac care, including OR, ICU, and floor management
- Skilled in EVH and surgical assisting for open-heart cases
- Adaptable, reliable, and comfortable working in a contract assignment
- Collaborative team player who thrives in a fast-paced clinical environment
- Detail-oriented with a patient-centered approach to care
- Excited about contributing to a high-performing cardiac surgery group
Other Relevant Information
- This contract role features a supportive work culture and access to leading-edge cardiac care resources
- Enjoy the advantages of working in a region known for its vibrant healthcare community
- Apply now to take the next step in your career as a Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C)! Click the job application button to begin your application process today.
- Equal Opportunity Employer – All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.