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$13

$34

$55

How much do ecmo jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for ecmo in California is $34.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.62 and $43.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an ECMO specialist do?

ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) specialists are highly trained healthcare professionals who operate and manage ECMO machines, which provide cardiac and respiratory support to patients whose heart and lungs are severely compromised. They work closely with doctors, nurses, and respiratory therapists to monitor the patient's status and adjust the ECMO settings as needed. ECMO specialists are responsible for ensuring the safe operation of the machine, troubleshooting any problems, and responding quickly to emergencies. Their role is critical in intensive care units, especially for patients with severe heart or lung failure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ECMO specialist?

To thrive as an ECMO Specialist, you need advanced knowledge of cardiopulmonary physiology, critical care practices, and typically hold credentials such as RN, RT, or perfusionist certification with specialized ECMO training. Familiarity with ECMO circuit components, monitoring systems, and troubleshooting protocols is essential. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills are vital for effective coordination with multidisciplinary teams and managing high-stress situations. These competencies ensure optimal patient outcomes and the safe, efficient operation of ECMO therapy in critical care settings.

What are some common challenges faced by ECMO specialists, and how can new hires best prepare for them?

ECMO specialists often encounter high-pressure situations, such as rapidly changing patient conditions and the need for urgent troubleshooting of complex equipment. Adapting to a multidisciplinary ICU environment requires strong communication and teamwork skills, as you'll frequently collaborate with physicians, nurses, and respiratory therapists. New hires can best prepare by gaining hands-on experience with ECMO circuits, staying current on protocols, and seeking mentorship from experienced team members to build confidence in both technical and decision-making aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Ecmo vs Respiratory Therapist?

AspectEcmoRespiratory Therapist
Required CredentialsSpecialized training, certification in ECMO management, often a critical care backgroundAssociate or Bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy, licensure, and certification (CRT or RRT)
Work EnvironmentIntensive care units, operating rooms, specialized ECMO centersHospitals, clinics, emergency settings, respiratory care departments
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals with advanced critical care units, specialized ECMO programsGeneral hospitals, outpatient clinics, emergency services

While both roles involve respiratory support, Ecmo specialists focus on managing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation systems in critical care settings, requiring advanced certifications. Respiratory Therapists provide broader respiratory care across various healthcare environments, often with different certification requirements. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Are ECMO specialists in demand?

ECMO specialists are in high demand due to the specialized nature of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy used in critical care. They typically require advanced training, certification, and experience, and employment opportunities are often available in hospitals and intensive care units with growing patient needs. The role is expected to remain essential as technology and critical care practices evolve.

How can I become an ECMO specialist?

To become an ECMO specialist, individuals typically need a background in critical care nursing, respiratory therapy, or perfusion technology, along with specialized training in ECMO management. Certification through organizations like the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) is often required or preferred, and hands-on experience with ECMO equipment and patient care is essential.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ecmo jobs in California?

The most popular types of Ecmo jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Ecmo jobs in California?

For Ecmo jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ecmo jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Ecmo jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Ecmo jobs?

Cities in California with the most Ecmo job openings:

Ecmo jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ecmo job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 4% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 30% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $72,617 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Registered Nurse - ECMO Specialist

San Diego, CA • On-site

Bestica Healthcare
See more jobs at Bestica Healthcareexternal

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Pediatric ECMO Nurse

Pending state license accepted: Yes, if we have an ETA from licensing of when it will post

Start date: ASAP

Shift: 3x12 variable - must be flexible to work days or nights

Years of experience REQ: 1

First-timer travelers accepted: Y/N: Y

Weekend REQ: Must be available to work weekends with full flexibility to be scheduled when needed

National certs REQ: PALS and BLS

Is on-call REQ? No

Will clinician float within scope to meet facility needs? Yes

Floating Req to Sister Facilities: No

Open to accommodating block schedule? No

Locals accepted: No

RTO Restrictions: 6 days RTO max

Guaranteed hours: Hours are guaranteed after the call off policy has been met

Special requirements:

  • CA license
  • 2 years of pediatric ICU nursing and 1 year of ECMO preferred, will consider no peds if they have solid ECMO training and background in adults experience
  • Willing to float between CTICU, PICU, and NICU wherever the ECMO patients are
  • BLS
  • PALS

Principal duties and responsibilities:

  • Monitor the extracorporeal circuit.
  • Adjust ECMO support as indicated to ensure adequate organ and tissue perfusion and oxygenation of the ECMO patient.
  • Troubleshoot and/or replace malfunctioning components of the extracorporeal circuit, which may include emergent life-threatening situations.
  • Administer fluids and/or blood products via the extracorporeal circuit under the direction of a physician.
  • Monitor and maintain adequate anti-coagulation per ordered guidelines.
  • Assist with progressive mobility for the ECMO patient.

Hospital highlights: Named one of the Top 10 Best Children's Hospitals in the Nation by U.

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