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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 Aug 28, 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.

What is a cardiovascular perfusionist?

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 does a cardiovascular perfusionist do?

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.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a cardiovascular perfusionist?

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.

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 career can be rewarding for those interested in advanced medical technology and patient care.

Where do cardiovascular perfusionists make the most money?

Cardiovascular perfusionists tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a high cost of living and strong healthcare systems, such as major metropolitan areas or states with advanced medical facilities. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in specialized hospitals can also influence earning potential.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,598 per year, or $55.1 per hour.

Perfusionist - UNC Medical Center

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site


UNC HEALTH
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 321 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

417th of 894 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

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$63.97 - $91.95/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 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.


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