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Perfusionist Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

VHC Health

Perfusionist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$168K - $320K/yr

Position Title Perfusionist Purpose & Scope: The Cardiovascular Perfusionist is a professional employee responsible for extracorporeal life support. The Perfusionist uses his / her clinical expertise ...

VHC Health

Perfusionist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$168K - $320K/yr

The Perfusionist uses his / her clinical expertise, specialized knowledge of extracorporeal technology, and medical therapy to maintain life support of critically ill patients. In consultation with ...

SpecialtyCare

Chief - Perfusionist

Great Falls, VA · On-site

$180K - $210K/yr

Perfusionist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Duration: Ongoing * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours * Employment Type: Staff Come be the Heart of the Operation We have an exciting new ...

SpecialtyCare

Chief - Perfusionist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$180K - $210K/yr

Perfusionist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Duration: Ongoing * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours * Employment Type: Staff Come be the Heart of the Operation We have an exciting new ...

VHC Health

Perfusionist

Arlington, VA

The Perfusionist uses his / her clinical expertise, specialized knowledge of extracorporeal technology, and medical therapy to maintain life support of critically ill patients. In consultation with ...

SpecialtyCare

Chief - Perfusionist

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $210K/yr

Perfusionist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Duration: Ongoing * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours * Employment Type: Staff Come be the Heart of the Operation We have an exciting new ...

Inova

Pathologist Assistant

Falls Church, VA

Performs special procedures such as coronary artery perfusion studies, central nervous system perfusion studies and enucleations. * Assists in the organization and coordination of anatomic pathology ...

Inova

Pathologist Assistant

Falls Church, VA

Performs special procedures such as coronary artery perfusion studies, central nervous system perfusion studies and enucleations. * Assists in the organization and coordination of anatomic pathology ...

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All JobsPerfusionist JobsPerfusionist Jobs in Reston, VA

Perfusionist information

See Reston, VA salary details

$34

$89

$160

How much do perfusionist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for perfusionist in Reston, VA is $89.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69.76 and $97.79 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.
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Perfusionist jobs near you
Perfusionist

Perfusionist

VHC Health

Arlington, VA • On-site

$168K - $320K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago

VHC Health rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

105th of 886 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Position Title
Perfusionist
Job Description
Purpose & Scope:
The Cardiovascular Perfusionist is a professional employee responsible for extracorporeal life support. The Perfusionist uses his / her clinical expertise, specialized knowledge of extracorporeal technology, and medical therapy to maintain life support of critically ill patients. In consultation with the cardiovascular surgeon or other physician, the cardiovascular Perfusionist uses independent activity and decision making to ensure safe and effective patient management while on extracorporeal circulation or cardiac assist.
Education:
Bachelor's degree in biology, health science, or in a related field is preferred.
Experience:
Three years of experience as a Cardiovascular Perfusionist is required.
Certification/Licensure:
Board Certified by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion is required.
Additional Job Description
At VHC Health, every role contributes to exceptional care, better outcomes, and stronger communities.
\nIn addition to your base compensation, VHC Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage (subject to eligibility requirements), as well as additional wellness and retirement benefits designed to support our employees and their families.
\nVHC Health is committed to wage transparency and equitable pay practices. The compensation offered for this position-whether expressed as an annual salary or hourly rate-is determined based on a variety of legitimate, non-discriminatory factors. These factors include, but are not limited to, a candidate's qualifications, relevant training and experience, skill level, shift differentials (where applicable), internal equity, and current market conditions.
\nThe posted hiring range reflects the range VHC Health, in good faith, believes is appropriate for this role at the time of posting. This range may be adjusted in the future based on business needs or market changes. No portion of compensation is considered earned until it is vested and determined in accordance with the terms of applicable policies and benefit plans. The availability and amount of any bonuses, incentives, or other benefits are subject to the terms of those plans and may be modified at the sole discretion of VHC Health, in accordance with applicable law.
\nVHC Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.
\nVHC Health maintains a drug-free workplace. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited at all VHC Health locations.

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