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Perfusion Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Staff Perfusionist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$79.01 - $102.49/hr

... the technology. Able to modify/adapt the system for individual requirements of a case where ... Clinical instructor for the USC Master of Sciences in Perfusion Sciences student body. * Concise ...

Staff Perfusionist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$79.01 - $102.49/hr

... technology. * Able to modify/adapt the system for individual requirements of a case where ... Clinical instructor for the USC Master of Sciences in Perfusion Sciences student body. * Concise ...

Sr. Perfusionist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$97.10 - $128.04/hr

Our exceptional team of clinical professionals combined with leading-edge technology makes UCLA Health the trusted destination for the most diverse and complex cardiac cases. The Perfusionist is ...

Whether running ECMO for critically ill patients or supporting advanced VAD technology, our ... Provide special perfusion services as described under the guidelines found in the established ...

Senior Perfusionist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$99.55 - $128.74/hr

... support technologies. In addition to performing clinical duties, the senior-level perfusionist ... This role typically reports to the Chief of Perfusion or Cardiac Operating Room Manager. Apply By ...

... perfusion equipment and resources in conjunction with Information Technology (IT) and Clinical Technology, including but not limited to all operating room (OR), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation ...

Showing results 21-40

Perfusion Tech information

See California salary details

$10

$43

$103

How much do perfusion tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 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 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.

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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 14% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $90,696 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago


Stanford Medicine Children's Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Category: Allied Health Specialties
Job Type: Full time
Shift: Day - 10 Hour
Location: Palo Alto, CA
Req: LP_00024345-2654517
Employee Group: Non-Exempt/Non-Represented
Benefits Eligible: Yes
Remote Eligible: No
Department: Perfusion
Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40
At Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, we know world-renowned care begins with world-class caring. That's why we combine advanced technologies and breakthrough discoveries with family-centered care. It's why we provide our caregivers with continuing education and state-of-the-art facilities, like the newly remodeled Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford. And it's why we need caring, committed people on our team - like you. Join us on our mission to heal humanity, one child and family at a time.
Job ID: LP_00024345-2654517
JOB SUMMARY
This paragraph summarizes the general nature, level and purpose of the job.
The Perfusionist is responsible for operating extracorporeal circulation equipment during any medical situation where it is necessary to support or temporarily replace the patient's circulatory or respiratory function. Other duties include conducting pertinent lab tests related to the surgical procedure, trouble shooting and evaluating perfusion equipment, administration of drugs and blood products via the perfusion equipment as well as specialized knowledge in managing patients who may require perfusion services due to an intra-aortic balloon procedure, pulsatile perfusion, ECMO or left ventricular assist device (TVAD).
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The essential functions listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification. They are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.
Employees must abide by all Joint Commission Requirements including but not limited to sensitivity to cultural diversity, patient care, patient rights and ethical treatment, safety and security of physical environments, emergency management, teamwork, respect for others, participation in ongoing education and training, communication and adherence to safety and quality programs, sustaining compliance with National Patient Safety Goals, and licensure and health screenings.
Must perform all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the hospital's policies and procedures, including its Service Standards and its Code of Conduct.
* Sets up and operates heart-lung machine, physiological monitoring instrumentation and related ancillary equipment in cardiac surgical procedures.
* Reviews patient's medical history and chart, and consults with surgeon or physician to obtain patient information needed to set up heart-lung machine and associated equipment.
* Selects, assembles, sets up, and tests heart-lung machine to ensure that machine and associated equipment function according to specifications while maintaining aseptic techniques.
* Operates heart-lung machine to regulate blood circulation and composition, to administer drugs and anesthetic agents, and to control body temperature during surgery or respiratory failure of patient.
* Monitors and observes operation of heart-lung machine and patient's physiologic variables such as blood temperature, blood composition, and flow rate, and adjusts equipment to maintain normal body functions.
* Assists in the transport of Ventricular Assist Devices or high-risk IABP patients.
* Cleans and adjusts parts of heart-lung machine.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities as well as possession of any required licenses or certifications is qualifying.
Education: Completion of an accredited Cardiovascular Perfusion Education Program
Experience: None Required
License/Certification:
  • Cardiovascular Perfusionists by American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion
  • Basic Life Support by American Heart Association (AHA)
  • or
  • RQI Healthcare Provider Basic Life Support

KNOWLEDGE
These are the observable and measurable attributes and skills required to perform successfully the essential functions of the job and are generally demonstrated through qualifying experience, education or licensure/certification.
* Ability to demonstrate proficiency in operating and modifying extracorporeal circulation and cardio-pulmonary support systems and ancillary devices (e.g., blood gas analyzers, autotransfusion devices, etc.).
* Ability to anticipate and respond appropriately to potentially serious situations involving the patient and technical problems that may arise.
* Knowledge of cardiovascular anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology, and extracorporeal circulation technology, including adjunctive techniques.
* Knowledge of cardiac disease, defects, and congenital anomalies.
* Knowledge of organ preservation, sterile and perfusion supplies, such as extracorporeal oxygenators, tubing circuits and cannulae.
* Knowledge of pharmacology of blood, fluids and medications administration and interaction with extra-corporeal devices.
* Knowledge of blood components, plasma composition of the human body in association of support by extracorporeal circuits and devices.
* Knowledge of the following areas in relation to clinical perfusion:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Pathophysiology
- Pharmacology
- Applied Sciences (e.g., biochemistry, physics)
- Hematology
- Computer technology
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The Physical Requirements and Working Conditions in which the job is typically performed are available from the Occupational Health Department. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
#LI-post
Pay Range
Compensation is based on the level and requirements of the role.
Salary within our ranges may also be determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, location, and abilities, as required by the role, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.
Typically, new team members join at the minimum to mid salary range.
Minimum to Midpoint Range (Hourly): $107.12 to $133.90
Stanford Medicine Children's Health (SMCH) strongly values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination in all of its policies and practices, including the area of employment. Accordingly, SMCH does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, or disability, or the perception of any of the above. People of all genders, members of all racial and ethnic groups, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Qualified applicants with criminal convictions will be considered after an individualized assessment of the conviction and the job requirements, and where applicable, in compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

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