Physician Assistant – Cardiothoracic Surgery (PA-C)
Location: Upstate South Carolina, SC
Job Type: Locum
Company: Palm Careers
Job Description Apply Now
The Physician Assistant – Cardiothoracic Surgery (PA-C) plays a pivotal role within a high-performing cardiac surgical team, contributing advanced clinical skills and specialized expertise to deliver exceptional patient outcomes. This full-time contract assignment offers a unique opportunity for experienced physician assistants to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment, providing comprehensive perioperative care for patients undergoing a range of cardiothoracic procedures. As a vital member of the surgical team, the Physician Assistant – Cardiothoracic Surgery (PA-C) is responsible for vein harvesting, first assisting in open-heart surgical cases, suturing, and managing both preoperative and postoperative patient care in both hospital and clinic settings. This position is based in Upstate South Carolina, where professionals can enjoy a blend of city vibrancy and scenic mountain landscapes while advancing their careers in a top-tier healthcare setting.
Physician Assistant – Cardiothoracic Surgery (PA-C) Summary- Serve as an integral member of the cardiothoracic surgical team, delivering high-quality patient care across the continuum of surgery.
- Provide essential clinical support including vein harvesting, first assist duties, and comprehensive perioperative management for adult cardiac surgery patients.
- Engage in a fast-paced and collaborative environment, working alongside skilled surgeons, nursing staff, and multidisciplinary professionals.
- Contribute to the organization's mission of providing advanced cardiac care while experiencing the professional rewards of serving a diverse patient population.
- This is a full-time contract opportunity, ideal for those seeking to expand their expertise in cardiothoracic surgery.
- Harvest veins for coronary artery bypass grafting and other cardiac surgical procedures with proficiency and precision.
- First assist surgeons during all open-heart operations, including preparing the operative field, suturing, and ensuring optimal patient safety.
- Deliver preoperative and postoperative surgical care, including performing assessments, managing admissions and discharges, and monitoring recovery in both ICU and general hospital settings.
- Participate in daily patient rounds, collaborate in treatment planning, and maintain detailed documentation in accordance with hospital protocols.
- Provide call coverage primarily for emergency room consults, ensuring timely response to urgent cardiac patient needs.
- Balance responsibilities between hospital (90%) and clinic (10%) settings, managing a caseload of approximately 10 patients per day, including admissions, ICU care, and surgical cases.
- Maintain effective communication with patients, families, and the healthcare team to facilitate seamless transitions of care.
- Highly competitive 1099 compensation structure, reflecting experience and specialized skills in cardiothoracic surgery.
- Comprehensive travel and lodging support, including coverage of flights, hotel accommodations, and rental or mileage expenses for the duration of the contract.
- Opportunity to work in a well-respected health system with access to advanced surgical resources and ongoing professional development.
- Active Board Certification as a Physician Assistant (PA-C) is required.
- Current DEA registration is required for the administration and prescription of controlled substances.
- Valid Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification is required.
- Minimum of two (2) years of direct experience in cardiothoracic surgery, with demonstrated expertise in endoscopic vein harvesting (EVH) and first assist duties.
- Active South Carolina State Licensure is preferred; candidates must be eligible to obtain licensure if not already held.
- Proven track record as a Physician Assistant – Cardiothoracic Surgery (PA-C), with strong clinical judgment and surgical acumen.
- Highly skilled in vein harvesting, first assist techniques, and the full spectrum of perioperative cardiac care.
- Demonstrates excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills, with a commitment to collaborative, patient-centered care.
- Comfortable with a flexible schedule that includes early morning shifts, weekday and weekend call coverage, and the ability to adapt to evolving patient needs.
- Motivated to further develop their expertise in a supportive, resource-rich environment.
- The assignment has a planned start date of January 2026, with an initial duration of 3 to 6 months and potential for extension based on performance and departmental needs.
- Schedule is Monday through Friday from 6am to 2pm, with additional call responsibilities as described.
- This opportunity allows professionals to experience the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Upstate South Carolina, recognized for its balance of urban amenities and outdoor recreation.
- Applicants are encouraged to submit their current CV for immediate consideration and take the next step in advancing their career as a Physician Assistant – Cardiothoracic Surgery (PA-C).
Qualified candidates who are passionate about providing exceptional cardiothoracic surgical care are strongly encouraged to apply for this full-time contract role. Click the application button now to join a team dedicated to making a difference in cardiac patient outcomes.