Cardiothoracic Surgery PA-C – First Assist & Vein Harvesting

About the role

HonorHealth is seeking a board‑certified Physician Assistant (PA‑C) to join the Heart Care – Heart and Lung Surgery team. The PA will serve as a first assist in cardiothoracic procedures and perform vein harvesting, providing critical support throughout the peri‑operative continuum.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the surgeon during cardiothoracic operations, including first‑assist duties and vein harvesting.
• Provide advanced care for patients with acute cardiac and respiratory conditions such as myocardial infarction, ARDS, and shock.
• Participate in discharge planning, patient education, and post‑operative follow‑up.
• Conduct history and physical examinations, order and interpret diagnostic studies, and prescribe medications under physician supervision.
• Mentor and coach nursing and ancillary staff, contribute to research and quality‑improvement projects.

Required profile

• Current PA‑C certification with a focus on critical care or surgical assistance.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently in a high‑acuity environment.
• Strong clinical judgment, leadership, and communication skills.
• Commitment to evidence‑based practice and continuous learning.

Required skills

• First‑assist techniques in cardiothoracic surgery.
• Vein harvesting procedures.
• Interpretation of cardiac and pulmonary diagnostic studies.
• Medication management for acute cardiac and respiratory conditions.