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Cardiovascular Perfusion Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Cardiovascular Perfusion information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$850

$2.2K

$3.2K

How much do cardiovascular perfusion jobs pay per week?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average weekly pay for cardiovascular perfusion in Raleigh, NC is $2,203.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,382.69 and $2,673.08 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is cardiovascular perfusion a good career?

Cardiovascular perfusion is a specialized healthcare profession involving operating heart-lung machines during surgeries. It offers a stable job outlook, competitive salary, and requires certification and technical skills. The field is essential in cardiac surgeries and provides opportunities for advancement and specialization.

Will AI replace perfusionist?

AI is unlikely to replace perfusionists entirely, as the role requires complex decision-making, hands-on skills, and critical thinking during surgeries. Perfusionists operate sophisticated equipment and respond to dynamic clinical situations, which currently cannot be fully automated. However, AI can assist perfusionists by providing data analysis and supporting decision-making processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cardiovascular Perfusion position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cardiovascular Perfusionist, you need a thorough understanding of cardiovascular anatomy and physiology, advanced technical skills, and completion of an accredited perfusion program along with certification (such as CCP). Familiarity with heart-lung machines, intra-aortic balloon pumps, and monitoring systems is essential. Excellent attention to detail, communication, and the ability to work calmly under pressure are standout soft skills. These abilities are crucial for ensuring patient safety and optimal outcomes during complex cardiac surgeries.

Can you make 300k as a perfusionist?

While some experienced perfusionists with specialized skills or working in high-demand regions can earn close to or over $300,000 annually, the average salary typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000. Factors such as experience, certifications, work setting, and geographic location influence earning potential in this field.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Cardiovascular Perfusionist?

Cardiovascular Perfusionists are primarily responsible for operating the heart-lung machine and related equipment during cardiac surgery, ensuring proper blood circulation and respiratory support while the heart is stopped. They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and operating room staff to monitor vital signs and adjust equipment as needed. In addition, perfusionists may assist in procedures involving ventricular assist devices, ECMO, or organ transplants. Their daily tasks also include preparing equipment, documenting perfusion activities, and participating in ongoing training and team briefings to maintain high standards of patient care.

Do perfusionists make more than RN?

Perfusionists typically earn higher salaries than registered nurses due to specialized training in operating heart-lung machines and managing extracorporeal circulation during surgeries. While RN salaries vary by experience and location, perfusionists often have higher earning potential because of their advanced skills and certification requirements.

What is a Cardiovascular Perfusion job?

A Cardiovascular Perfusionist is a healthcare professional who operates the heart-lung machine during surgeries that require cardiopulmonary bypass, such as open-heart procedures. They manage blood circulation and oxygenation while the surgeon operates on the heart. Perfusionists also monitor vital signs and administer medications as needed. Their expertise ensures the patient's organs receive adequate oxygen and nutrients during surgery.

What are popular job titles related to Cardiovascular Perfusion jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Cardiovascular Perfusion jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cardiovascular Perfusion jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Cardiovascular Perfusion jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Cardiovascular Perfusion jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Cardiovascular Perfusion job openings:
Infographic showing various Cardiovascular Perfusion job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,598 per year, or $55.1 per hour.
Perfusionist - UNC Medical Center

Perfusionist - UNC Medical Center

UNC HEALTH

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site

$63.97 - $91.95/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Your passion belongs at UNC Health. Join more than 56,000 teammates working together to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve across North Carolina.
Hours: 40hrs/week, on call required
UNC Medical Center is hiring a full-time clinical perfusionist to join our highly collaborative team in Chapel Hill, NC. You will be joining a team of experienced perfusionists, cardiothoracic surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and allied health professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional patient care.
  • Work in a dynamic academic medical center that offers exposure to a broad spectrum of cardiac surgery and advanced cardiovascular therapies
  • Supportive environment where leadership prioritizes employee engagement, open communication, professional recognition and shared decision making
  • Enjoy a variable schedule while participating in a shared on-call rotation to support emergent and after hours cardiovascular services
  • Contribute to the education and mentorship of perfusion students, residents, fellows and other health professionals in an academic teaching environment

Summary:
This is highly technical work in providing circulatory support for patients undergoing open-heart surgery and long-term cardiac and pulmonary support such as extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation and ventricular assist through mechanical assistance. Employees work independently under the general supervision of the Chief Perfusionist.
Responsibilities:
1. Assists surgeons and anesthesiologists in the operating room during open-heart surgery to maintain all patient temperatures and pressures as directed by physicians.
2. Cleans equipment and has it serviced for any malfunctions observed.
3. Contributes to continuous quality improvement which focuses on customer satisfaction, outcomes, and cost
4. Provides patient and support staff training related to ancillary equipment.
5. Reviews patient's history, physical and heart catheterization data prior to surgery to determine appropriate circuit required. Maintains the perfusion record during each case.
6. Sets-up, processes, and disposes of cell saver supplies as outlined in the perfusion manual for autotransfusion.
Other Information
Other information:
Education Requirements:
• Graduation from an accredited school of Perfusion Technology.
Licensure/Certification Requirements:
• Certified Perfusionist or eligible to be certified by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion.
• BLS required
• North Carolina Perfusion License or Provisional License required.
Professional Experience Requirements:
• No prior experience required.
Knowledge/Skills/and Abilities Requirements:
Job Details
Legal Employer: STATE
Entity: UNC Medical Center
Organization Unit: Perfusion
Work Type: Full Time
Standard Hours Per Week: 40.00
Salary Range: $63.97 - $91.95 per hour (Hiring Range)
Pay offers are determined by experience and internal equity
Work Assignment Type: Onsite
Work Schedule: Variable
Location of Job: US:NC:Chapel Hill
Exempt From Overtime: Exempt: Yes
This is a State position employed by UNC Health Care System with UNC Health benefits. If, however, you are presently an employee of another North Carolina agency and currently participate in TSERS or the ORP, you will be eligible to continue participating in those plans at UNC Health.
Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran or political affiliation.
UNC Health makes reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as applicants and employees with disabilities. All interested applicants are invited to apply for career opportunities. Please email applicant.accommodations@unchealth.unc.edu if you need a reasonable accommodation to search and/or to apply for a career opportunity.