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Entry Level Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant Jobs

Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA-C) Denver Metro Area | Award-Winning Health System Join a highly respected, hospital-employed Cardiothoracic Surgery team within a nationally recognized ...

$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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Entry Level Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant information

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$64K

$226.1K

$400K

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cardiothoracic surgery physician assistant in the United States is $226,097.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $174,500.00 and $270,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level cardiothoracic surgery physician assistant do?

An Entry Level Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA) works under the supervision of cardiothoracic surgeons to assist in surgeries involving the heart, lungs, and chest. Their responsibilities include preoperative and postoperative patient care, conducting physical exams, assisting during surgical procedures, and managing patient documentation. Entry-level PAs are often involved in suturing, wound care, and educating patients and families about procedures and recovery. They play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the surgical team and improving patient outcomes. Training and mentorship are typically provided to help them adjust to the complexities of cardiothoracic surgery.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant, you need a master's degree from an accredited PA program, national certification (PA-C), and knowledge of cardiothoracic surgical procedures. Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMRs), operating room instrumentation, and basic life support (BLS/ACLS) certifications are typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set outstanding candidates apart. These skills and qualifications are critical for ensuring patient safety, supporting surgical teams, and providing efficient, high-quality perioperative care.

What are typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for an entry level cardiothoracic surgery physician assistant during their first year?

As an entry level cardiothoracic surgery physician assistant, your first year will focus on developing a solid foundation in preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative patient care. You'll assist surgeons in the operating room, perform bedside procedures, and help manage patient rounds. The role often involves close collaboration with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nursing staff, providing a supportive environment for hands-on learning and mentorship. You may also participate in educational conferences and quality improvement initiatives, which can accelerate your professional development and expose you to advanced surgical techniques.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant vs Entry Level General Surgery Physician Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician AssistantEntry Level General Surgery Physician Assistant
Required CredentialsMaster's degree, NCCPA certification, cardiothoracic surgery trainingMaster's degree, NCCPA certification, general surgery training
Work EnvironmentOperating rooms, cardiac ICU, specialized surgical unitsOperating rooms, outpatient clinics, general surgical wards
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals with cardiac centers, specialized surgical practicesHospitals, outpatient clinics, surgical centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistants focus on cardiac and thoracic procedures, requiring specialized training. In contrast, Entry Level General Surgery Physician Assistants handle a broader range of surgical cases across various specialties. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in work environment and specialization focus.

More about Entry Level Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant jobs

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Entry Level Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $226,097 per year, or $108.7 per hour.

$150K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA-C)

Denver Metro Area | Award-Winning Health System

Join a highly respected, hospital-employed Cardiothoracic Surgery team within a nationally recognized health system in one of Denver's most desirable suburban communities. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Physician Assistant seeking a dynamic blend of first-assist surgery, inpatient care, and outpatient follow-up while working alongside an established team of cardiovascular specialists.

Position Highlights

  • Hospital-employed position with a stable, award-winning health system
  • Join a collaborative cardiovascular team consisting of: 15 Physicians, 12 Advanced Practice Providers, 3 Cardiothoracic Surgeons, 3 Experienced Cardiothoracic Surgery PAs
  • Traditional mix of: First-assist surgical responsibilities, Inpatient rounding and management, Outpatient clinic follow-up
  • Shared 1:4 call schedule
  • State-of-the-art facilities and strong clinical support

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive salary: $150,000 $180,000 (based on experience)
  • Signing bonus, Relocation assistance
  • 10% annual quality bonus
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement plan with employer contribution
  • Paid time off and CME allowance
  • Malpractice coverage

Qualifications

  • Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C)
  • Prior Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant experience required
  • Previous first-assist surgical experience required

Community

Enjoy all the benefits of living in the Denver metro area, including a strong economy, excellent schools, vibrant dining and entertainment, and easy access to world-class skiing, hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation throughout the Rocky Mountains.

If you're an experienced Cardiothoracic Surgery PA seeking a rewarding surgical practice with exceptional compensation, team support, and quality of life, we'd love to speak with you.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Katie Patterson

843-574-8234

katie@nowhealthcare.org


National Coalition Of Healthcare Recruiters logo

About National Coalition Of Healthcare Recruiters

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The National Coalition of Healthcare Recruiters (NCHCR) is an established company based in Blennerhassett, West Virginia that operates within the healthcare industry. With a commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism, they offer specialized recruitment services to healthcare professionals and institutions across the country. Operating as a coalition, they implement a powerful networking platform to connect employers and job seekers in the healthcare sector. The organization’s mission revolves around ensuring that healthcare services across the nation have access to the best talent available and potential candidates can find rewarding opportunities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Blennerhassett, WV, US

Year founded

2005

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