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Perfusion Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Pathology and Perfusion Technician (PPT) is responsible for the accuracy of pathology services ... technology preferred. OR EMT, LVN or an Associate degree in Science. Experience: 1+ years ...

The Pathology and Perfusion Technician (PPT) is responsible for the accuracy of pathology services ... technology preferred. OR EMT, LVN or an Associate degree in Science. Experience: 1+ years ...

NRP Perfusionist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

Staying current with the latest advancements in perfusion technology and NRP protocols is essential. This position offers the chance to work in a dynamic, innovative environment at the forefront of ...

Staying current with the latest advancements in perfusion technology and NRP protocols is essential. This position offers the chance to work in a dynamic, innovative environment at the forefront of ...

Develop and implement ECMO policies and procedures Ensure staff are trained on current ECMO standards of care and perfusion technology and receive ongoing education to ensure competency Provide ...

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Perfusion Tech information

See California salary details

$10

$43

$103

How much do perfusion tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for perfusion tech in California is $43.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.19 and $61.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Perfusion Tech?

A Perfusion Tech, or Perfusion Technologist, is a healthcare professional who operates the heart-lung machine and other specialized equipment during cardiac surgery and other medical procedures that require cardiopulmonary bypass. They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other medical staff to manage a patient's circulatory and respiratory functions while the heart is stopped. Their responsibilities include monitoring blood flow, oxygen levels, and administering medications as needed during surgery. Perfusion Techs play a critical role in ensuring patient safety and the success of complex surgical procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Perfusion Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Perfusion Tech, you need a comprehensive understanding of cardiovascular physiology, perfusion techniques, and a relevant associate’s or bachelor’s degree, often with certification from the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP). Familiarity with heart-lung machines, blood gas analyzers, and other specialized perfusion equipment is typically required. Excellent attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring patient safety and supporting successful surgical outcomes during cardiovascular procedures.

What does a perfusion tech do?

A perfusion tech assists during cardiac surgeries by operating and monitoring the heart-lung machine, which takes over the functions of the heart and lungs. They prepare equipment, ensure proper functioning, and support the surgical team to maintain patient stability throughout the procedure.

What is the difference between Perfusion Tech vs Cardiovascular Technologist?

AspectPerfusion TechCardiovascular Technologist
CertificationsCertified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP) or equivalent, often required for advanced rolesRegistered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) or Cardiovascular Technologist certification
Work EnvironmentOperate heart-lung machines during surgeries, primarily in operating roomsAssist with diagnostic procedures like echocardiograms and catheterizations in hospitals or clinics
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, specialized cardiac facilitiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, outpatient clinics

Perfusion Technicians focus on operating heart-lung machines during cardiac surgeries, requiring specialized perfusion certifications. Cardiovascular Technologists assist with diagnostic procedures and imaging related to the cardiovascular system. While both roles work in cardiac care settings, Perfusion Techs are more involved in surgical support, whereas Cardiovascular Technologists focus on diagnostics and imaging.

Can you make 300k as a perfusionist?

Perfusionists typically earn between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, with top earners in certain regions or with extensive experience reaching around $200,000. Achieving a $300,000 salary is uncommon and usually requires advanced specialization, leadership roles, or working in high-demand areas with additional certifications. Factors such as experience, location, and employer influence earning potential significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by Perfusion Techs during cardiac surgeries, and how are they addressed?

Perfusion Techs often encounter high-pressure situations during cardiac surgeries, such as unexpected changes in patient status or equipment malfunctions. Effective communication with the surgical team and quick problem-solving skills are crucial to address these challenges. Regular training on advanced machinery, adherence to protocols, and maintaining composure under stress help Perfusion Techs manage these situations and ensure patient safety. Collaboration with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses is key to troubleshooting issues as they arise.

Will AI replace perfusionist?

AI technology is unlikely to fully replace perfusionists, as their role requires complex decision-making, hands-on skills, and critical thinking during surgeries. While AI can assist with data analysis and monitoring, perfusionists are essential for operating and managing heart-lung machines and responding to unexpected situations. The profession will likely evolve to incorporate new tools, but human expertise remains vital in the operating room.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

Perfusion technologists typically do not earn $3,000 a day; such high daily earnings are more common in specialized medical roles like certain surgeons or anesthesiologists, or in high-level executive positions. Most healthcare professionals earn annual salaries, with daily rates varying based on experience, location, and workload, but earning $3,000 daily is rare outside of top-tier specialties or entrepreneurial ventures.
What job categories do people searching Perfusion Tech jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Perfusion Tech jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Perfusion Tech job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 27% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,696 per year, or $43.6 per hour.
Pathology Perfusion Tech

Pathology Perfusion Tech

OneLegacy

Azusa, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Join Us in Transforming Lives Every Day
At OneLegacy, every moment counts. As the nation's largest organ, eye, and tissue recovery organization, we are dedicated to saving lives and sharing hope. Guided by our values of integrity, compassion, stewardship, diversity and inclusion, urgency, innovation and excellence, and collaboration, our team works tirelessly to honor every gift of donation. This is more than a job; it's an opportunity to make a profound impact on countless lives.
Job Type: Full-time; Non-exempt
Work Hours: 12 hour shifts: 6PM-6AM; 7 days in a two week period, including alternating weekends.
Work Setting: In-person
Location: Azusa, CA
Travel: Travel required by personal auto or air to meeting sites and other locations.
Position Summary:
The Pathology and Perfusion Technician (PPT) is responsible for the accuracy of pathology services requiring specialized techniques at OneLegacy. The PPT works independently using the medical knowledge to perform human specimen examination for diagnosis and donor treatment. The PPT receives and processes specimens from the operating rooms (OR's) and clinics throughout the designated service area. Specimens are also received from external clients and research groups.
The PPT maintains supplies, equipment, and instruments and provides administrative support in the day-to-day operation of the laboratory and wherever needed. The PPT must maintain competency and keep abreast of changing techniques and requirements in Anatomic Pathology dissection and Frozen Section preparation.
The PPT will be tasked to drive the Pathology and Perfusion van to donor hospitals to process specimens using a portable cryostat and transmit digital slide images for interpretation.The PPT will be trained to be proficient in all aspects of Kidney Perfusion, assisting with donor transports, performing organ discards and will be trained in the donor allocation process. The PPT position will be tasked to work nights and rotating weekends.
Duties & Responsibilities:
Essential Job Functions:
Specimen Receipt and Processing
1. Receives specimens and carefully checks paperwork for accuracy and completeness, including appropriate documentation of medical necessity. Contacts ordering source if any information is incomplete.
2. Monitors specimen identification using the laboratory's specimen identification policies. Resolves problems and completes documentation as required.
3. Processes test requests with accompanying specimens and enters orders as required. Uses established policies and procedures for specimen acceptability and troubleshoots or clarifies questions regarding specimen integrity.
4. Processes specimen by placing on instrument and placing in appropriate storage area.
5. Prepares and returns blood components and tissues following patient and product identification procedures.
6. Troubleshoots laboratory's defined equipment and document system error codes.
7. Responds to telephone requests regarding add on tests, patient results, availability of products, and department procedures.
8. Practices universal safety precautions according to company Policy and Procedures at all times(e.g. use of gloves, lab coat, and other Personal Protective Equipment).
9. Plans and coordinates workflow to meet OneLegacy requirements and provides for satisfactory turnaround time of tests.
10. Uses computers to access specimens, report results, and collects quality assurance data using the Anatomic Pathology information system.
Organ Perfusion and Preservation
1. Collaborates with the Donor Allocation and Operation Management team to identify organs to be placed on machine perfusion.
2. Maintains operational knowledge of the handling and use of all machine perfusion devices.
3. Performs the sterile dissection and cannulation of all organs being placed on machine perfusion devices.
4. Performs monitoring of organs on machine perfusion devices and troubleshoots any surgical or equipment based issues related to the perfusion instances.
5. Collaborates with Materials Management to assist in equipment maintenance for quality control.
6. Works directly with external machine perfusion device manufacturers for all training, competency and equipment updates.
7. Responds to telephone requests regarding perfusion based questions from internal and external partners, ie transplant centers.
8. Manages all documentation related to machine perfusion.
9. Performs organ packaging and repackaging per OPTN and OneLegacy policies and procedures.
General Operations
1. Assists Central Supply with stocking and restocking of lab equipment and supplies.
2. Drives the organ donor transport vehicle to facilitate transfer of organ donors to OneLegacy Transplant and Recovery Centers.
3. Assists the Clinical Operations team with the movement of the donor from the hospital unit to the transport vehicle.
4. Performs and documents the discard of recovered organs deemed unsuitable for transplant or research.
5. Assumes all other responsibilities as directed by Manager.
Physical Environment/Working Conditions:
Location: Azusa, but will work/travel at all OneLegacy Facilities.
Travel: Frequently required to travel by personal auto or air to meeting sites and other locations.
Work Hours: Performs a forty-hour workweek as determined by assigned shift, and must work overtime as needed/required based on department needs. Periodic availability required after hours in case of emergencies/business needs. Assigned days and/or shift can be changed according to staffing needs. Must be available evenings, holidays, and weekends as required.
Skills and Abilities:
1. Ability to multitask with exceptional organizational skills
2. Critical thinking skills in the clinical environment
3. Verbal and written communication skills (English)
4. Problem solving skills
5. Ability to mentor others.
Physical Environment/Working Conditions:
Location: OneLegacy Azusa Transplant and Recovery Center
Travel: Travel required by personal auto or air to meeting sites and other locations.
Job Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor's degree in a chemical, physical, biological, or clinical laboratory science, or medical technology preferred. OR EMT, LVN or an Associate degree in Science.
Experience: 1+ years' experience in the medical field or laboratory experience
Pay Range:
$79,989- $104,991.25
Benefits
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Plans -Employer pays 90% of premium cost for employee
  • 19 days of PTO
  • 2 Floating Holidays
  • 10 Holidays
  • Life Insurance
  • Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Wellness Plans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Pet Insurance
  • Gym Onsite
  • Mileage Reimbursement to applicable positions
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Referral Program
  • 403b Retirement Plan with an annual discretionary 8% Employer contribution
  • School Loan Forgiveness

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.