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Thoracic Surgery Jobs (NOW HIRING)

POSITION HIGHLIGHTS We are seeking an experienced thoracic surgeon to direct the Lung Cancer Program. Responsible for developing and implementing strategies to ensure delivery of excellent cancer ...

IMLC Accepted - Midland, Michigan, Thoracic Surgery Job • Clinical Role:o Do you know someone that might be a good fit for this position? Please ask about our generous referral fees!o Locum tenens ...

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Thoracic Surgery information

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$128K

$308.5K

$400K

How much do thoracic surgery jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for thoracic surgery in the United States is $308,478.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $275,000.00 and $374,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Thoracic Surgeon, you need advanced knowledge of surgical techniques, human anatomy, and disease processes, supported by an MD or DO degree, completion of a general surgery residency, and thoracic surgery fellowship with board certification. Expertise in operating specialized surgical instruments, minimally invasive technology, and familiarity with electronic medical record (EMR) systems is essential. Superior manual dexterity, critical thinking, and strong communication skills are crucial for patient care and effective collaboration with surgical teams. These competencies ensure safe, precise procedures, optimal patient outcomes, and efficient teamwork in high-stakes surgical environments.

What are some common challenges faced by thoracic surgeons in their daily practice?

Thoracic surgeons often encounter complex cases that require precise technical skills and the ability to make quick, critical decisions during surgery. Managing high-stress situations, such as unexpected complications or emergencies, is a routine part of the role. Additionally, they frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams—including pulmonologists, oncologists, and anesthesiologists—to coordinate patient care, which demands strong communication and teamwork abilities. Balancing a demanding surgical schedule with patient consultations and follow-ups can also be challenging but is essential for successful patient outcomes.

What is thoracic surgery?

Thoracic surgery is a medical specialty focused on the surgical treatment of organs inside the chest, primarily the lungs, esophagus, and other parts of the thoracic cavity. Thoracic surgeons perform procedures to treat conditions such as lung cancer, esophageal cancer, chest trauma, and diseases of the diaphragm. These surgeries can be performed using traditional open techniques or minimally invasive methods like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and robotic-assisted surgery. Thoracic surgeons work as part of a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive care for patients with complex chest diseases.

What is the difference between Thoracic Surgery vs Cardiothoracic Surgery?

AspectThoracic SurgeryCardiothoracic Surgery
CredentialsMedical degree, surgical residency, board certification in thoracic surgeryMedical degree, surgical residency, board certification in cardiothoracic surgery
Work EnvironmentHospitals, specialized surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, cardiac centers, surgical clinics
Industry UsageFocuses on chest organs excluding the heartIncludes heart and chest organ surgeries
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for chest surgeriesBroader scope including heart procedures

Thoracic Surgery primarily involves surgeries on the chest organs such as the lungs, esophagus, and chest wall. Cardiothoracic Surgery is a specialized subset that includes surgeries on the heart and great vessels. While both require similar credentials and work in similar environments, cardiothoracic surgery covers a broader range of procedures, especially those involving the heart.

More about Thoracic Surgery jobs
What cities are hiring for Thoracic Surgery jobs? Cities with the most Thoracic Surgery job openings:
What states have the most Thoracic Surgery jobs? States with the most job openings for Thoracic Surgery jobs include:
Infographic showing various Thoracic Surgery job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $308,478 per year, or $148.3 per hour.

Surgery - Thoracic Physician

SourceMD

Atlanta, GA

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

POSITION HIGHLIGHTS
We are seeking an experienced thoracic surgeon to direct the Lung Cancer Program.
Responsible for developing and implementing strategies to ensure delivery of excellent cancer care and optimal treatment outcomes.
Expected to lead research projects in thoracic cancers and actively participate in the NHCI Lung Cancer Program multidisciplinary clinical activities.
Primary Focus: Thoracic Surgery lung, esophageal, and other cancers of the respiratory system
POSITION DESCRIPTION
The ideal candidate will offer a proven background focused on program growth and leadership combined with experience in the use of advanced technologies and surgical innovations to build upon and support the Program s commitment to excellent outcomes for patients and their families. This individual will collaborate with physicians, clinicians and administrators to create and maintain a culture of patient centeredness emphasizing quality, safety and efficiency while actively promoting multidisciplinary approach to patient care as a local, regional and national leader in innovation and collaboration.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Board-certified thoracic surgeon
Fellowship trained in cardiothoracic surgery or thoracic surgical oncology
Minimally invasive thoracic surgery proficiency required
5-8 years clinical experience preferred
Proven track record of successful leadership in a progressive academic medical center or community hospital
Experience and commitment to cancer research and clinical trials is highly desirable
Contact us today for more details.