Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C)
Location: San Francisco, CA
Job Type: Locum
Company: Palm Careers
Job Description Apply Now
Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C)
Our renowned healthcare organization is seeking a dedicated Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) to join our expanding cardiothoracic surgery team. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and experienced professional to be an essential part of a dynamic, high-volume surgical practice. The position is offered as a full-time, contract-based role, providing a chance to collaborate with a team of expert cardiac surgeons and surgical assistants. With a focus on teamwork and delivering optimal patient outcomes, this role promises a rewarding and challenging environment for those passionate about cardiothoracic surgery.
As a Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C), you will play a critical role in all aspects of perioperative care. You will have direct involvement in preoperative assessments, intraoperative first and second assisting, postoperative management, and contributing to key clinical databases. Our team handles approximately 350 annual heart surgeries and 200 lung surgeries, including TAVR and minimally invasive programs. The absence of resident or fellow staff ensures substantial hands-on surgical experience and professional growth. This role offers significant time in the operating room—approximately 60%—allowing for both skill development and professional satisfaction.
Working with a growing group currently consisting of three cardiac surgeons and three assistants, you will enjoy the collaborative and supportive atmosphere that comes with a well-established team. Our organization values work-life balance, as evidenced by the structured work schedule and shared call responsibilities. The position requires commitment to excellence, adaptability, and a proactive approach to patient care and team collaboration.
We provide comprehensive support for our contract professionals, including paid malpractice coverage, travel, lodging, and transportation accommodations. We welcome candidates who are ready to make a tangible difference in the lives of cardiothoracic patients and who seek professional development in a leading-edge surgical environment. If you are eager to take on a pivotal role in a thriving healthcare setting, we encourage you to apply today by clicking the job application button.
Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) - Summary- Full-time contract position supporting a busy cardiothoracic surgical team
- Direct involvement in approximately 350 annual heart surgeries and 200 lung surgeries
- Opportunities for significant hands-on surgical experience
- Emphasis on professional growth within a collaborative team environment
- First and second assist in operating room procedures, including open heart, lung, TAVR, and minimally invasive surgeries
- Participate in floor rounds, patient assessments, and postoperative care
- Conduct history and physical (H&P) examinations and prepare discharge summaries
- Assist with maintaining and updating the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) database
- Collaborate closely with surgeons, nurses, and support staff to ensure optimal patient outcomes
- Participate in a rotating call schedule, including one out of every three weeks and weekends
- Maintain high standards of patient care and safety throughout the perioperative period
- Competitive compensation structure for contract professionals
- Paid malpractice insurance coverage
- Comprehensive travel, lodging, and transportation support (mileage or rental car)
- Work-life balance with predictable scheduling and periodic weekday afternoons off after one year
- Current certification as a Physician Assistant (PA-C)
- Previous experience in cardiothoracic or cardiovascular surgery strongly preferred
- Demonstrated proficiency in first and second assist roles during cardiothoracic procedures
- Ability to manage patient rounds, prepare clinical documentation, and contribute to clinical databases
- Excellent communication, organizational, and clinical skills
- Commitment to collaborative, multidisciplinary patient care
- Experienced in high-volume cardiothoracic or cardiovascular surgical settings
- Adaptable and proactive with a strong attention to detail
- Team-oriented and committed to continuous learning and improvement
- Excited to participate in an expanding and progressive surgical group
- The position offers a 12-month full-time contract, with flexibility to start with a 6-month term if desired
- Engagement in a non-resident/fellow environment allows for substantial surgical experience
- Our organization is committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse workplace environment
- Located in a vibrant urban area, providing access to a diverse patient population and advanced healthcare resources
We encourage interested candidates to take the next step in their career by submitting an application through the job application button. Join our team and make a meaningful impact in the field of cardiothoracic surgery.