Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C)
Location: South Dakota, SD
Job Type: Locum
Company: Palm Careers
Job Description Apply Now
Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) positions offer healthcare professionals the opportunity to join a dedicated surgical team in a dynamic and rewarding environment. We are seeking a skilled Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) to join our cardiovascular and thoracic surgery team, providing comprehensive surgical and clinical support. This full-time role emphasizes both operative and perioperative care, creating an excellent pathway for professional growth within the field of cardiothoracic surgery.
The Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) will work alongside experienced surgeons and healthcare professionals, primarily spending time in the operating room (OR), with responsibilities extending to preoperative and postoperative patient care management. This position is ideal for Physician Assistants seeking to deepen their expertise in cardiac, thoracic, and vascular surgical procedures while enjoying access to mentoring opportunities and hands-on involvement with complex surgical cases.
Working as a Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) in this setting allows for involvement in a broad scope of surgical interventions, including but not limited to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), aortic and mitral valve repair/replacement, thoracic trauma management, aortic root procedures, and minimally invasive vessel harvesting. The role is designed for individuals who excel in fast-paced, team-based environments and who have a passion for advanced surgical care.
In addition to primary surgical duties, the Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) will oversee routine management of postoperative patients in both intensive care units and general wards. Responsibilities also include outpatient clinic management, preoperative assessments, and postoperative follow-up care. The position encourages continual learning and development, with opportunities to mentor medical students and collaborate with an interdisciplinary team.
Joining our team provides not only a professionally enriching experience but also offers the chance to work in a peaceful, welcoming community. The area is ideal for individuals who appreciate outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing, supporting a healthy work-life balance. Comprehensive support for travel, housing, and malpractice coverage is included, ensuring you can focus on delivering the highest quality of patient care.
Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) - Summary- Provide advanced perioperative and intraoperative care in a cardiothoracic and vascular surgery setting
- Work collaboratively with surgeons, nurses, and allied health professionals
- Participate in a full-scope surgical practice with diverse case exposure
- Opportunity to mentor and educate medical students
- Serve as first assistant in the operating room for cardiac, thoracic, and vascular surgeries, such as CABG, valve repairs/replacements, thoracotomies, and endoscopic vessel harvest
- Perform preoperative and postoperative assessments and management, including ICU and floor patient care
- Participate in outpatient clinics for pre- and post-surgical care, wound management, and aortic aneurysm surveillance
- Rotate call duties equally, including weekend coverage as assigned
- Mentor medical students during their clinical rotations
- Document clinical activities and maintain accurate patient records
- Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes
- Competitive compensation aligned with experience and industry standards
- Comprehensive malpractice insurance coverage
- Provided housing, travel, flights, and rental car for the duration of the contract
- Flexible contract lengths with extension opportunities
- Supportive, team-oriented work environment
- Current Physician Assistant (PA-C) certification
- State licensure as a Physician Assistant, or ability to obtain
- Experience in cardiothoracic and/or vascular surgery preferred
- Demonstrated ability to provide first-assist support in the OR
- Strong clinical assessment, communication, and organizational skills
- Ability to participate in call rotation as required
- Experienced in high-acuity surgical environments
- Motivated professional seeking a diverse and challenging surgical role
- Excellent team player and communicator
- Flexible, adaptable, and committed to ongoing learning
- Interest in mentoring and working with medical students
- Unique opportunity to work in an area known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation
- Position open to contract lengths from six to twelve months, with possibility for extension
- Equal opportunity employer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin
If you are a motivated Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) seeking an exciting opportunity to advance your career in a collaborative surgical environment, we encourage you to apply by clicking the application button today!