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Perfusion Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Specialtycare

Perfusionist - Torrance, CA

Torrance, CA · On-site

$152 - $254/hr

SpecialtyCare is the largest provider of perfusion services in the United States. With our national presence and local professionals, we support 1 in 8 of all heart surgeries in the country. We are ...

USC Gould School of Law

Staff Perfusionist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$79.01 - $102.49/hr

Clinical instructor for the USC Master of Sciences in Perfusion Sciences student body. * Concise, clear communication with surgical teams. * Integrate into the sub-management innerworkings of the ...

Keck Medicine of USC

Staff Perfusionist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$79.01 - $102.49/hr

Clinical instructor for the USC Master of Sciences in Perfusion Sciences student body. * Concise, clear communication with surgical teams. * Integrate into the sub-management innerworkings of the ...

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How much do perfusion jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for perfusion in California is $84.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66.20 and $92.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a perfusionist?

Perfusionists are specialized healthcare professionals who operate the heart-lung machine and other advanced equipment during surgeries that require cardiopulmonary bypass, such as open-heart procedures. They are responsible for managing the patient’s circulatory and respiratory functions while the heart is stopped, ensuring that oxygenated blood continues to flow to the body. Perfusionists work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other medical staff in the operating room. Their expertise is essential for patient safety during complex surgical procedures.

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

To thrive as a Perfusionist, you need a thorough understanding of cardiovascular physiology, medical technology, and a degree in perfusion science or related field, often with certification from organizations like the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP). Mastery of heart-lung machines, blood gas analyzers, and ECMO systems is typical in this role. Attention to detail, composure under pressure, and strong communication skills are crucial for working in high-stakes surgical environments. These competencies ensure safe, effective patient support during complex surgeries and contribute to optimal surgical outcomes.

What are some common challenges perfusionists face during complex surgical procedures?

Perfusionists often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing patient conditions, managing unexpected complications like air embolisms or equipment malfunctions, and maintaining precise control of blood flow and oxygenation under pressure. They must stay vigilant during long and demanding surgeries, collaborating closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and operating room staff to ensure patient safety. Adaptability, quick decision-making, and strong communication skills are essential for navigating these high-stress situations effectively.

What is the difference between Perfusion vs Cardiovascular Technologist?

AspectPerfusionCardiovascular Technologist
CredentialsCertified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP), specialized trainingRegistered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) or similar
Work EnvironmentOperating rooms during bypass surgeries, cardiac proceduresCardiac catheterization labs, diagnostic imaging
Industry UsageHospitals, surgical centers, specialized cardiac facilitiesHospitals, clinics, diagnostic centers

Perfusionists focus on operating heart-lung machines during cardiac surgeries, requiring specialized certification. Cardiovascular Technologists assist with diagnostic procedures like catheterizations, often with different certifications. While both roles work in cardiac care, perfusionists are more involved in surgical support, whereas cardiovascular technologists handle diagnostic imaging and testing.

Is a perfusionist a high paying job?

Perfusionists typically earn a high salary compared to many healthcare roles, with median annual wages often exceeding $130,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and work setting, and the role requires specialized training and certification. It is considered a well-compensated profession within the medical field.

Is it hard to get a job as a perfusionist?

Getting a job as a perfusionist can be competitive due to the specialized nature of the role, which requires a bachelor's degree, certification, and clinical experience. Job availability depends on healthcare facility needs, geographic location, and individual qualifications, but demand for perfusionists is generally steady due to the complexity of cardiac surgeries. Strong technical skills and certification from recognized boards improve employment prospects.

What jobs can a perfusionist do?

A perfusionist operates heart-lung machines and other equipment during cardiac and thoracic surgeries, managing patient circulation and oxygenation. They work in hospitals, surgical centers, and specialized cardiac units, often requiring certification and knowledge of biomedical equipment. Perfusionists may also be involved in research, equipment maintenance, and training roles related to extracorporeal circulation.

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

The most popular types of Perfusion jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Perfusion jobs?

Cities in California with the most Perfusion job openings:

Perfusion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Perfusion job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $176,411 per year, or $84.8 per hour.

Staff Perfusionist

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$79.01 - $102.49/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

University Of Southern California rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

102nd of 628 rated colleges and universities

Job description

  • Essential job duties include, but are not limited to:
  • Heart/lung/kidney machine use during cardiopulmonary bypass for all various surgical procedures requiring the technology.
    Able to modify/adapt the system for individual requirements of a case where applicable
  • Autotransfusion services for any surgical procedure
  • Clinical use of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) science
  • Understanding of mechanical circulatory support devices
  • Clinical instructor for the USC Master of Sciences in Perfusion Sciences student body.
  • Concise, clear communication with surgical teams.
  • Integrate into the sub-management innerworkings of the department

Follows established USC and department policies, procedures, objectives, performance improvement, attendance, safety, environmental, and infection control guidelines, including adherence to the workplace Code of Conduct and Compliance Plan.
This position is 100% on-site and employee must report to work at the USC Health Science Campus in Los Angeles, CA or any other USC affiliate institution when scheduled. Work hours and on-site days may be subject to change depending on business needs.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience in a complex medical or academic development setting encouraged. Excellent communication skills - both written and verbal. Comfortable interfacing with highest level of university leadership and university supporters/volunteers. Demonstrated affinity for diplomacy and the ability to cultivate and maintain relationships at all levels. Practices a high level of integrity and honesty in maintaining confidentiality. Ability to multi-task effectively and demonstrate strong organizational skills. Sound judgment and decision making A cooperative and team-oriented attitude Effective facilitator in various settings
Required Qualifications:
Intended graduation from accredited perfusion program at minimum
The hourly rate range for this position is $79.01 - $102.49. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations
USC Perfusion Services is seeking a staff perfusionist. Working directly under the supervision of the Director of USC Perfusion Services, the staff perfusionist works closely with all members of the cardiac surgical team: surgeon, anesthesiologist, surgical technician and circulating nurse.
The successful candidate will be motivated, pro-active, resourceful, and detail oriented. The position requires excellent organizational and communication skills with the ability to be decisive and adaptable. Candidates should have experience/exposure to various heart-lung machine systems and their technologies, autotransfusion machines & point-of-care devices.
Minimum Education: Specialized/technical training
Minimum Experience: 6 - 12 months, Combined education/experience as substitute for minimum experience
Minimum Field of Expertise: Graduation from accredited perfusion training program, certified or certification-eligible by American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion, current CPR/BCLS, knowledge of universal precautions
USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.
We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.
  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:
https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$145801.htmld

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About University of Southern California

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The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880

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