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Entry Level Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant Jobs

$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

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

As of Sep 7, 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 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% 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.

Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA)

Kaiser Permanente

Clackamas, OR • On-site

$7.4K/wk

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Kaiser Permanente rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 927 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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