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Cardiac Surgical Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Responsibilities * Assist surgeons during cardiac procedures by preparing instruments and equipment. * Maintain a sterile environment to ensure patient safety during surgeries. * Monitor patient ...

Responsibilities * Assist surgeons during cardiac procedures by preparing instruments and equipment. * Maintain a sterile environment to ensure patient safety during surgeries. * Monitor patient ...

Surgical Assistant

Clinton, MD · On-site

$35.68 - $64.71/hr

The Surgical Assistant practices in collaboration with and at the direction of the surgeon during ... CPR - Cardiac Pulmonary Resuscitation (includes BLS and NRP) for healthcare providers from either ...

Surgical Assistant

Clinton, MD · On-site

$35.68 - $64.71/hr

The Surgical Assistant practices in collaboration with and at the direction of the surgeon during ... CPR - Cardiac Pulmonary Resuscitation (includes BLS and NRP) for healthcare providers from either ...

As a Surgical Assistant, you willassistwith critical procedures and tasks related to specific ... Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Certification through the American Heart Association (AHA) or ...

Showing results 21-40

Cardiac Surgical Assistant information

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$13

$27

$62

How much do cardiac surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cardiac surgical assistant in the United States is $27.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cardiac surgical assistant?

Cardiac Surgical Assistants are specialized healthcare professionals who work closely with cardiac surgeons during heart surgeries and related procedures. They help prepare the operating room, assist with surgical instruments, and perform critical tasks such as tissue retraction, suturing, and hemostasis. Their role is vital for ensuring that surgeries are conducted efficiently and safely, and they often play a part in pre- and post-operative patient care. Cardiac Surgical Assistants typically have advanced training in surgical techniques, anatomy, and sterile procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cardiac surgical assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cardiac Surgical Assistant, you need a background in surgical technology or physician assisting, a solid understanding of cardiac anatomy, and certification such as CSA or PA-C. Familiarity with surgical instruments, cardiopulmonary bypass machines, and electronic medical record systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this high-stakes environment. These skills ensure patient safety, surgical efficiency, and effective collaboration within the cardiac surgery team.

What are some typical challenges faced by cardiac surgical assistants during complex procedures and how are they addressed?

Cardiac Surgical Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected complications during surgery, maintaining precise coordination with the surgical team, and adapting quickly to changes in patient condition. Effective communication, strong knowledge of cardiac anatomy, and proficiency with specialized surgical instruments are essential to address these issues. Additionally, ongoing training and simulation exercises help assistants stay prepared for high-pressure situations and ensure patient safety throughout complex procedures.

What is the difference between Cardiac Surgical Assistant vs Cardiovascular Technologist?

AspectCardiac Surgical AssistantCardiovascular Technologist
CredentialsCertification or training in surgical assisting, CPRCertification in cardiovascular technology, ARDMS or CCI
Work EnvironmentOperating rooms, assisting during cardiac surgeriesDiagnostic labs, cath labs, assisting with imaging and procedures
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, cardiac surgery teamsHospitals, diagnostic labs, cardiology clinics

While both roles support cardiac care, Cardiac Surgical Assistants focus on assisting during surgeries in the operating room, requiring surgical assisting skills. Cardiovascular Technologists primarily perform diagnostic procedures and imaging, working in labs and clinics. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How much does a cardiac surgical assistant make?

A cardiac surgical assistant typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and healthcare facility. Salaries may also vary based on certifications and the complexity of procedures they assist with.

How to become a cardiac surgical assistant?

To become a cardiac surgical assistant, one typically needs to complete a relevant healthcare education program, such as a surgical technology or cardiovascular technology program, and obtain certification if required. Gaining experience in surgical settings and developing skills in anatomy, sterile techniques, and patient care are essential. Some positions may also require licensure or certification from professional organizations, depending on the region.
More about Cardiac Surgical Assistant jobs

What cities are hiring for Cardiac Surgical Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Cardiac Surgical Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Cardiac Surgical Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cardiac Surgical Assistant jobs include:

Infographic showing various Cardiac Surgical Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,122 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Cardiac RN First Assist (RN)- Cardiac OR

University Hospitals

Cleveland, OH

$48.49 - $75.85/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


University Hospitals rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 626 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Serving at our health system’s most advanced and complex cardiac surgery center, the UH Cleveland Medical First Assistant team performs a variety of state of the art surgeries and procedures giving our team a well-rounded experience in coronary, valve, transplant, robotic, and structural heart disease including hybrid structural and aortic interventions. Cardiac First Assistants support every cardiac surgery case across our system in and out of the operating room, including emergencies within the hospital and procedures in the cardiac cath lab.  RNFA, Physician Assistant or Surgical Assist will be considered.  Cardiac OR experience strongly preferred.  

When you join UH, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, which includes, but is not limited to:

  • Competitive salary
  • Competitive hourly rate + $5.25 additional hourly incentive pay 
  • $8,000 sign on bonus
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement and pension plans
  • Free parking for regular-status employees

A Brief Overview
 

The Cardiac RNFA I works under the direction and supervision of the attending physician to provide aid in exposure, hemostasis, closure and other intraoperative technical functions that help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the patient. Performs preoperative and postoperative duties to better facilitate the needs of the surgical patient during the perioperative period. RNFA I will primarily 2nd assist with occasional assignments in the 1st assist position within cardiac surgical cases. The RNFA I will cover regional call to support the Cardiac Surgery program across the system as well as covering call for Transplant, both donor and recipient, which requires the ability to travel in cars, ambulances, planes and helicopters.

What You Will Do
 

  • Applies the nursing process in all facets of the nurse first assistant role.
  • Displays knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the human body while delivering safe patient care.
  • Establishes and maintains a safe peri-operative environment.
  • Offers education development opportunities to nursing staff, students and any other appropriate persons in the specific surgery and patient management.
  • Utilizes ongoing data collection peri-operatively, and follow-up information to aid in research care studies that promote effectiveness and quality of patient care.

Additional Responsibilities
 

  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.
  • For specific duties and responsibilities, refer to documentation provided by the department during orientation.
  • Must abide by all requirements to safely and securely maintain Protected Health Information (PHI) for our patients. Annual training, the UH Code of Conduct and UH policies and procedures are in place to address appropriate use of PHI in the workplace.
Education
  • (BSN) Bachelor's Degree in Nursing Graduation of approved RN Program (Required) and
  • Other Accredited Program: Completion of state approved RNFA course (Required)
Work Experience
  • less than 1 year Minimum of 6 months taking Second call for Cardiac Surgery service line (Required)
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
  • Must demonstrate proficiency in taking Second Call (Required proficiency)
  • Advanced Life Support Equipment knowledge (Required proficiency)
  • Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, proper use of all instruments and equipment used during CT surgery procedures. (Required proficiency)
  • High degree of hand/eye coordination and uniform mental attention. (Required proficiency)
Licenses and Certifications
  • Registered Nurse (RN), Ohio and/or Multi State Compact License (Required Upon Hire) and
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) (Preferred within 6 Months) and
  • Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) (Required) and
  • Registered Nurse First Assist (RNFA) (Preferred)
  • RNFA registration with OBN (Required)
Physical Demands
  • Standing Frequently
  • Walking Frequently
  • Sitting Rarely
  • Lifting Frequently up to 50 lbs
  • Carrying Frequently up to 50 lbs
  • Pushing Frequently up to 50 lbs
  • Pulling Frequently up to 50 lbs
  • Climbing Occasionally up to 50 lbs
  • Balancing Occasionally
  • Stooping Frequently
  • Kneeling Frequently
  • Crouching Frequently
  • Crawling Occasionally
  • Reaching Frequently
  • Handling Frequently
  • Grasping Frequently
  • Feeling Constantly
  • Talking Constantly
  • Hearing Constantly
  • Repetitive Motions Constantly
  • Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination Constantly
Travel Requirements
  • 30% Travel to community hospitals to support cardiac surgery programs

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About University Hospitals

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For more than 155 years, University Hospitals has been on a mission to heal, teach and discover. As a renowned academic medical center and community hospital network, we’ve expanded across Northeast Ohio to deliver what matters most to our patients: personalized, compassionate care; medical discovery and breakthroughs; and high-quality, affordable care close to home.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cleveland, OH, US

Year founded

1866