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Trainee Perfusion Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

... for lab trainees. We are particularly interested in candidates with hands-on experience in ... perfusion, and immunohistochemistry. Conduct tissue culture and assist in viral vector (AAV ...

Trainee Perfusion information

See Virginia salary details

$25.3K

$43.2K

$63K

How much do trainee perfusion jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee perfusion in Virginia is $43,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,700.00 and $50,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee perfusion?

Trainee perfusionists are healthcare professionals in training who learn to operate heart-lung machines and other equipment that temporarily take over the function of the heart and lungs during cardiac surgery. They work under the supervision of experienced perfusionists and cardiac surgeons to monitor and manage a patient’s circulatory and respiratory functions. Their training typically includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The goal is to become fully qualified perfusionists who can provide critical support during complex surgical procedures.

What is the difference between Trainee Perfusion vs Perfusionist?

AspectTrainee PerfusionPerfusionist
CredentialsTypically in training, may have basic healthcare qualificationsCertified healthcare professional with specialized perfusion certification
Work EnvironmentUnder supervision, assisting in surgeriesIndependent operation of heart-lung machines during procedures
Industry UsageTraining phase, often in hospitals or cardiac centersFull professional role in cardiac surgeries and other procedures

In summary, a Trainee Perfusion is in training and works under supervision, while a Perfusionist is a fully qualified professional responsible for operating perfusion equipment independently during surgeries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee perfusionist?

To thrive as a Trainee Perfusionist, you need a strong background in biological or health sciences, typically supported by a relevant degree and acceptance into an accredited perfusion training program. Familiarity with cardiopulmonary bypass machines, blood gas analyzers, and hospital information systems is important, along with learning protocols for cardiac surgery support. Attention to detail, composure under pressure, and effective communication are vital soft skills for working in surgical teams and responding to critical situations. These competencies are essential to ensure patient safety and the effective management of life-support equipment during complex cardiac procedures.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee perfusionists during their training period?

Trainee Perfusionists often face the challenge of adapting quickly to high-pressure surgical environments while learning complex equipment and procedures. Balancing hands-on learning with in-depth study of cardiovascular physiology and perfusion technology can be demanding. Additionally, trainees must develop excellent communication and teamwork skills as they collaborate closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nursing staff during cardiopulmonary bypass procedures. Gaining confidence in troubleshooting and responding to unexpected situations is also a key hurdle during the training period.

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

The most popular types of Perfusion jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Trainee Perfusion jobs in Virginia?

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Trainee Perfusion jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Trainee Perfusion job openings:

$19 - $26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Research Assistant
Job no: 533999
Work type: Staff
Senior management: Vice President for Research
Department: Fralin Biomedical Res. Institute
Location: Roanoke, Virginia
Categories: Research / Scientific
Job Description
The Shin Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (VTC, Virginia Tech Carilion) is seeking a full-time Research Assistant to support neuroscience projects and oversee day-to-day laboratory operations. This professional research position is an excellent opportunity for individuals with strong laboratory skills who enjoy working in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. Lab Website: https://fbri.vtc.vt.edu/research/labs/shin.html
The successful candidate will play a central role in supporting research projects, managing the mouse colony, and serving as the "go-to" person for lab trainees. We are particularly interested in candidates with hands-on experience in stereotaxic surgery and mouse handling.
Key Responsibilities
• Perform stereotaxic surgeries and behavioral assays in mouse models.
• Carry out molecular and cellular techniques, including molecular cloning, brain sectioning, cardiac perfusion, and immunohistochemistry.
• Conduct tissue culture and assist in viral vector (AAV, Lentivirus) preparation.
• Maintain detailed, accurate experimental records in compliance with IBC and IACUC protocols.
• Contribute to research team meetings, problem-solving, and data quality improvement.
• Manage a large transgenic mouse breeding colony: genotyping, welfare monitoring, and record-keeping.
• Ensure the lab is well-organized, compliant with regulations, and that protocols are up to date.
• Support and train new lab members in experimental and safety procedures.
Required Qualifications
• Proven experience with mouse handling and stereotaxic surgery.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a research team.
• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Preferred Qualifications
• Degree or coursework in biosciences, neuroscience, biology, or a related field with substantial laboratory experience.
• Prior experience in an academic biomedical research setting.
Pay Band
3
Overtime Status
Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
Commensurate with Experience
Hours per week
40
Review Date
9/5/2025
Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Brittany Shelton at sheltb@vtc.vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
Advertised: August 26, 2025
Applications close:
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About Virginia Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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