Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C)
Location: Chicago, IL
Job Type: Permanent
Company: Palm Careers
Category: Healthcare
Job Description Apply Now
Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) positions offer an exciting and dynamic opportunity to join a specialized surgical team focused on delivering comprehensive cardiac and thoracic care. This full-time role is integral to supporting the cardiothoracic surgery program, providing advanced care both intraoperatively and in critical care settings. Working within a collaborative team environment, the Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) will engage in a range of responsibilities, from first assisting in the operating room to managing post-operative cardiac surgery patients in intensive care units. This position is based in Chicago, Illinois, a city known for its world-class medical facilities and vibrant professional community.
As a Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C), you will be joining a highly skilled surgical team consisting of experienced cardiac surgeons, vascular surgeons, advanced practice providers, and support staff. The team handles approximately 300 cardiac cases annually, providing extensive opportunities for hands-on clinical practice. You will work alongside three cardiac surgeons and four vascular surgeons, directly contributing to a variety of complex procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), aortic and mitral valve replacements and repairs, ascending aortic aneurysm repairs, LVAD implantation, ECMO, and axillary IABP placement.
This Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) position emphasizes a full continuum of care, with primary duties including first assisting in the operating room, endovascular vein harvesting, and supporting both cardiac and vascular surgery cases. The role also involves managing patients post-operatively in critical care settings, where experience with advanced mechanical support devices such as LVAD, Impella, and ECMO is highly valued. The team’s culture is supportive and prioritizes professional development, making it an excellent environment for both seasoned practitioners and recent graduates looking to advance their surgical skills.
The Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) will participate in a flexible scheduling model, with four ten-hour shifts per week and rotating on-call duties, typically limited to one or two shifts per week. The department is structured to foster strong mentorship, with opportunities to support new graduates and maintain proficiency in advanced surgical techniques. The department typically has one resident or fellow rotating through in three-month increments, promoting a collaborative learning environment.
Working in Chicago, Illinois, provides the added benefit of being part of a diverse and innovative healthcare community. The city offers a wealth of professional resources, networking opportunities, and access to leading-edge technologies and continuing education. The practice’s commitment to work-life balance, a flexible schedule, and a comprehensive benefits package further distinguishes this opportunity as a top choice for skilled physician assistants specializing in cardiothoracic surgery.
Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) - Summary- Full-time position supporting a high-volume cardiothoracic surgery program
- Integral member of a multidisciplinary team including surgeons, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners
- Engaged in the full spectrum of perioperative and critical care for cardiac surgery patients
- Based in the vibrant medical community of Chicago, Illinois
- First assist in the operating room for cardiothoracic and vascular surgical procedures
- Perform endovascular vein harvesting and support both cardiac and vascular surgery cases
- Manage post-operative cardiac surgery patients in critical care settings
- Utilize and manage patients with advanced mechanical support devices (LVAD, Impella, ECMO)
- Participate in a flexible work schedule with rotating on-call duties
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including mentoring newer physician assistants
- Support approximately 300 cardiac cases annually
- Contribute to a positive, supportive, and collaborative team culture
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience
- Comprehensive benefits package
- Work-life balance promoted through flexible scheduling
- Opportunities for professional development and continuing education
- Graduate of an accredited Physician Assistant program
- Current PA-C certification
- Experience in cardiothoracic or vascular surgery preferred
- Proficiency in first assisting and endovascular vein harvesting required
- Knowledge of post-operative management of cardiac surgery patients, including mechanical support devices
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Experienced in both cardiac and vascular surgery procedures
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a high-volume, team-based environment
- Comfortable with mentoring and supporting new graduates
- Keen interest in maintaining advanced surgical skillsets
- Adaptable and able to manage a variety of clinical scenarios
- Supportive and collaborative team environment
- Opportunities to work with leading cardiac and vascular surgeons
- Mentorship available for newer physician assistants
- Exposure to a broad range of complex cardiac and vascular cases
- Located in a city known for excellent healthcare facilities and professional growth
If you are a dedicated Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) seeking to advance your career in a thriving surgical environment, we encourage you to apply now by clicking the job application button. Join a team where your skills are valued, your growth is supported, and your contributions make a difference every day.