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Perfusionist Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

OXB

Material Handler III

Durham, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

... and perfusion process using process enhancers and stable producer and packaging cell lines. OXB, a FTSE250 and FTSE4Good constituent, is headquartered in Oxford, UK. It has development and ...

Oxford BioMedica

Material Handler III

Durham, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

... and perfusion process using process enhancers and stable producer and packaging cell lines. OXB, a FTSE250 and FTSE4Good constituent, is headquartered in Oxford, UK. It has development and ...

Oxford Biomedica

Material Handler III

Durham, NC

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... and perfusion process using process enhancers and stable producer and packaging cell lines. OXB, a FTSE250 and FTSE4Good constituent, is headquartered in Oxford, UK. It has development and ...

Oxford Biomedica

Material Handler III

Durham, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... and perfusion process using process enhancers and stable producer and packaging cell lines. OXB, a FTSE250 and FTSE4Good constituent, is headquartered in Oxford, UK. It has development and ...

UNC Health

CT Technologist II

Apex, NC

$35.87 - $51.57/hr

Works with Radiologists and other providers to identify patient needs to complete exam or discuss alternative exam. 4) Performs CTA perfusion, Code IA/Stroke/Bat, Red Trauma Series, Yellow Trauma ...

UNC Health

CT Technologist II - Rex CT Scan

Raleigh, NC

$35.87 - $51.57/hr

Works with Radiologists and other providers to identify patient needs to complete exam or discuss alternative exam. 4) Performs CTA perfusion, Code IA/Stroke/Bat, Red Trauma Series, Yellow Trauma ...

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All JobsPerfusionist JobsPerfusionist Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Perfusionist information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$32

$83

$150

How much do perfusionist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for perfusionist in Raleigh, NC is $83.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65.19 and $91.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is the Job Description of a Perfusionist?

A perfusionist is a surgical professional whose duties are to monitor a heart and lung machine used during surgery to take over the patient’s vital functions, namely to provide blood flow throughout the body while the surgeon operates. For example, if a patient has kidney failure, your responsibilities are to ensure nothing is wrong with the hemodialysis machine, and if the patient is having open heart surgery, you monitor artificial blood pumps. It’s your job to assess which machine to use for each procedure. In addition to these responsibilities, your duties include recording relevant information during surgery, maintaining records and sterile equipment, and following all health and safety precautions.

Is perfusion harder than nursing?

Perfusionists operate heart-lung machines during surgery and require specialized training, including a degree in perfusion technology and certification. Nursing involves a broader scope of patient care and typically requires a nursing degree and licensure. The difficulty depends on individual skills and interests, but perfusion work is highly technical and focused on specific procedures, often demanding precise technical skills and quick decision-making.

What is the difference between Perfusionist vs Cardiovascular Technologist?

AspectPerfusionistCardiovascular Technologist
CredentialsCertification (e.g., American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion)Post-secondary education, certification varies
Work EnvironmentOperating rooms during cardiac surgeriesDiagnostic labs, cath labs, operating rooms
Industry UsageHospitals, surgical centersHospitals, diagnostic centers
Job FocusManaging heart-lung machines during surgeryPerforming diagnostic procedures and assisting in surgeries

Perfusionists specialize in operating heart-lung machines during cardiac surgeries, requiring specific certification. Cardiovascular technologists assist with diagnostic tests and support surgical teams but typically do not operate perfusion equipment. While both roles work in cardiac care, perfusionists have a more specialized focus on perfusion management during surgeries.

Can you make 200k as a perfusionist?

Perfusionists' salaries vary based on experience, location, and work setting, but earning $200,000 annually is possible in some regions and with significant experience or specialization. High salaries are often associated with senior roles, working in large hospitals, or working overtime and on-call shifts. Certification and advanced skills can also contribute to higher earning potential.

What are some common challenges Perfusionists face during cardiac surgeries, and how do they address them?

Perfusionists often encounter challenges such as managing sudden changes in a patient's physiological status, equipment malfunctions, and the need for quick decision-making under pressure. They must remain highly vigilant throughout procedures, communicate closely with surgeons and anesthesiologists, and be prepared to troubleshoot issues with the heart-lung machine or blood flow monitoring. Continuous education and simulation training help Perfusionists stay up-to-date with best practices and maintain readiness to address these challenges efficiently.

What does a perfusionist do?

A perfusionist operates the heart-lung machine during cardiac surgeries to maintain blood circulation and oxygenation. They monitor and adjust the machine's functions, ensure patient safety, and work closely with surgical teams. Certification and knowledge of cardiovascular physiology are essential for this role.

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 solid background in cardiovascular physiology, biomedical sciences, and successful completion of an accredited perfusion education program, along with certification (such as CCP) or licensure where required. Familiarity with heart-lung machines, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and patient monitoring systems is essential for the technical aspects of the role. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for effective decision-making during complex surgical procedures. These skills ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes during cardiovascular surgeries, where precise management of circulatory and respiratory functions is vital.

What are perfusionists?

Perfusionists are specialized healthcare professionals who operate the heart-lung machine during cardiac surgery and other medical procedures that require cardiopulmonary bypass. They are responsible for managing the patient’s circulatory and respiratory functions when the heart is stopped, ensuring that oxygenated blood continues to flow throughout the body. Perfusionists work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other members of the surgical team to monitor vital signs and adjust the machinery as needed. Their expertise is crucial for the success and safety of many complex surgical procedures.

Is there a high demand for perfusionists?

Perfusionists are in high demand due to the increasing number of cardiac surgeries and advanced medical procedures requiring extracorporeal circulation. Job growth for perfusionists is expected to be faster than average, with opportunities available in hospitals, surgical centers, and specialized clinics, often requiring certification and technical skills.
More about Perfusionist jobs
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What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Perfusionist jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Perfusionist job openings:
Perfusionist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Perfusionist job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $173,751 per year, or $83.5 per hour.
Perfusionist - UNC Medical Center

Perfusionist - UNC Medical Center

UNC HEALTH

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site

$63.97 - $91.95/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Your passion belongs at UNC Health. Join more than 56,000 teammates working together to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve across North Carolina.
Hours: 40hrs/week, on call required
UNC Medical Center is hiring a full-time clinical perfusionist to join our highly collaborative team in Chapel Hill, NC. You will be joining a team of experienced perfusionists, cardiothoracic surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and allied health professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional patient care.
  • Work in a dynamic academic medical center that offers exposure to a broad spectrum of cardiac surgery and advanced cardiovascular therapies
  • Supportive environment where leadership prioritizes employee engagement, open communication, professional recognition and shared decision making
  • Enjoy a variable schedule while participating in a shared on-call rotation to support emergent and after hours cardiovascular services
  • Contribute to the education and mentorship of perfusion students, residents, fellows and other health professionals in an academic teaching environment

Summary:
This is highly technical work in providing circulatory support for patients undergoing open-heart surgery and long-term cardiac and pulmonary support such as extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation and ventricular assist through mechanical assistance. Employees work independently under the general supervision of the Chief Perfusionist.
Responsibilities:
1. Assists surgeons and anesthesiologists in the operating room during open-heart surgery to maintain all patient temperatures and pressures as directed by physicians.
2. Cleans equipment and has it serviced for any malfunctions observed.
3. Contributes to continuous quality improvement which focuses on customer satisfaction, outcomes, and cost
4. Provides patient and support staff training related to ancillary equipment.
5. Reviews patient's history, physical and heart catheterization data prior to surgery to determine appropriate circuit required. Maintains the perfusion record during each case.
6. Sets-up, processes, and disposes of cell saver supplies as outlined in the perfusion manual for autotransfusion.
Other Information
Other information:
Education Requirements:
• Graduation from an accredited school of Perfusion Technology.
Licensure/Certification Requirements:
• Certified Perfusionist or eligible to be certified by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion.
• BLS required
• North Carolina Perfusion License or Provisional License required.
Professional Experience Requirements:
• No prior experience required.
Knowledge/Skills/and Abilities Requirements:
Job Details
Legal Employer: STATE
Entity: UNC Medical Center
Organization Unit: Perfusion
Work Type: Full Time
Standard Hours Per Week: 40.00
Salary Range: $63.97 - $91.95 per hour (Hiring Range)
Pay offers are determined by experience and internal equity
Work Assignment Type: Onsite
Work Schedule: Variable
Location of Job: US:NC:Chapel Hill
Exempt From Overtime: Exempt: Yes
This is a State position employed by UNC Health Care System with UNC Health benefits. If, however, you are presently an employee of another North Carolina agency and currently participate in TSERS or the ORP, you will be eligible to continue participating in those plans at UNC Health.
Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran or political affiliation.
UNC Health makes reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as applicants and employees with disabilities. All interested applicants are invited to apply for career opportunities. Please email applicant.accommodations@unchealth.unc.edu if you need a reasonable accommodation to search and/or to apply for a career opportunity.

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