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Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$280 - $315/hr

Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA) Location: Louisville, KY Position Type: Full-Time Contract Schedule: 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM | 14 Shifts per Month Pay Rate: $145-$165/hour Position Overview ...

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Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant information

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$113.5K

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How much do cardiothoracic surgery physician assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for cardiothoracic surgery physician assistant in the United States is $213,124.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $154,000.00 and $250,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cardiothoracic surgery physician assistant?

A cardiothoracic physician assistant works with a cardiothoracic physician to prepare patients for surgery. This specialty operates on conditions of the lungs, heart, and chest wall. As a cardiothoracic physician assistant, you explain to the patient what to expect during the procedure, and you monitor the patient during and after the surgery. You do not participate in the operation, but you may perform of other procedures, such as chest tube insertions, endoscopic retrieval, thoracentesis, and the insertion of catheters. Other job duties may include taking patient histories and physicals, accompanying the physician on their clinical rounds, and may assist with discharging the patient, including writing prescriptions for explaining discharge instructions.

What does a cardiothoracic surgery physician assistant do?

A Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA) is a medical professional who works closely with cardiothoracic surgeons to assist in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of patients undergoing heart and chest surgeries. Their responsibilities include preoperative and postoperative patient management, assisting in surgical procedures, conducting patient assessments, and providing education to patients and families. They play a crucial role in ensuring smooth surgical operations and comprehensive patient care throughout the hospital stay.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cardiothoracic surgery physician assistant?

To thrive as a Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant, you need a master's degree from an accredited PA program, national certification (PA-C), and specialized knowledge in cardiothoracic surgical procedures. Proficiency in using surgical instruments, electronic medical records (EMRs), and familiarity with operating room protocols are essential. Exceptional teamwork, attention to detail, and strong communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient surgical care and effective collaboration within high-stress, multidisciplinary environments.

What are some common challenges cardiothoracic surgery physician assistants face during surgical procedures and postoperative care?

Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistants often navigate fast-paced, high-pressure environments, especially during complex surgeries. They must be prepared to respond quickly to unexpected complications and maintain clear communication with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nursing staff. Additionally, balancing the demands of assisting in the operating room with responsibilities such as postoperative patient management and documentation can be challenging. Staying organized and proactive in patient care coordination is critical for success in this role.

What is the difference between Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant vs Cardiothoracic Surgeon?

AspectCardiothoracic Surgery Physician AssistantCardiothoracic Surgeon
CredentialsMaster's degree, Physician Assistant (PA) certification, state licensureMedical degree (MD or DO), surgical residency, board certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, clinics assisting in surgeries and patient careHospitals, surgical theaters leading surgeries, overseeing patient treatment
Roles & ResponsibilitiesAssist in surgeries, perform pre- and post-operative care, patient evaluationsPerform surgeries, diagnose, develop treatment plans, lead surgical teams

While both roles work closely in cardiothoracic surgery, a Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant primarily assists surgeons and handles patient care under supervision, whereas a Cardiothoracic Surgeon performs surgeries and makes critical treatment decisions independently.

What cities are hiring for Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant jobs?

The top employers for Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant jobs are:

What states have the most Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant jobs?

For Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $213,124 per year, or $102.5 per hour.

Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA)

Kaiser Permanente

Clackamas, OR • On-site

$7.4K/wk

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Kaiser Permanente rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 928 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Details
Client Name
Kaiser Permanente - Mt Talbert Medical Office
Job Type
Locum
Offering
Locums
Profession
Advanced Practice
Specialty
Surgical Physician Assistant (SPA)
Job ID
37941641
Job Title
Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA)
Weekly Pay
$7400.0
Shift Details
Shift
7:00AM - 5:00PM x 4
Scheduled Hours
40
Job Order Details
Start Date
10/26/2026
End Date
10/17/2027
Duration
52 Week(s)
Job Description
Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA)
    • Location: Clackamas, OR
    • Setting: Medical Office
    • Term: ASAP - 1 Year
    • Shift Schedule:7AM-5PM x4
    • Pay Rate: $170-$175/hr
A medical office in Clackamas, OR is looking for a Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA) to provide additional coverage for increased patient load. Providers will assist with Cardiovascular and Cardiothoracic Surgery cases.
Benefits for Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA):
  • Malpractice Insurance
  • Weekly Pay
  • Full-service credentialing and licensing department
  • Dedicated corporate travel team with airfare, car rental and hotel booking
  • $1,000 Referral Bonus
Qualifications of Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA):
  • Board Certification
  • Oregon PA License
  • First Assist Certification
  • Vein Harvesting Experience
  • ACLS and BLS (American Heart Association)
Duties/Responsibilities of Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA):
  • Provide clinical support for cardiovascular and cardiothoracic surgery cases.
  • Serve as first assist during cardiothoracic surgical procedures.
  • Perform vein harvesting for procedures; vein harvesting experience is required.
  • Assist with radial artery harvesting when applicable; experience preferred but not required.
  • Conduct post-operative patient rounds, including assessment, management, and coordination of care.
  • Evaluate patients in the outpatient clinic as needed.
  • Collaborate closely with cardiothoracic surgeons, physicians, nurses, and other members of the surgical team.
  • Assist with pre-operative and post-operative patient management, including monitoring recovery and addressing clinical concerns.
  • Provide patient education and contribute to continuity of care throughout the surgical process.

Astrya Global Medical Staffing is a California-based medical staffing agency certified by both the Joint Commission and National Association of Locum Tenens Organizations. At Astrya, we are dedicated to helping healthcare professionals find the perfect job.
Client Details
Address
10100 SE Sunnyside Rd
City
Clackamas
State
OR
Zip Code
97015
Job Board Disclaimer
Job listings on this board are posted by Astrya Global and are subject to change or removal at any time without notice. Please call us at (888) 808-3138 or visit our website www.astryaglobal.com for more information.

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