ICU – Day - Advanced Practice Provider (APP)/(PA/NP)/ Surgery, Division of Cardiothoracic Surge[...]

University of Colorado; Aurora (CO); On-site; USD 112,362 - 144,622; Full time

Job summary

A leading medical institution in Aurora, CO is seeking an ICU – Day NP/PA Open Rank - Instructor, Sr. Instructor to provide critical care management for postoperative cardiothoracic surgical patients. The role requires collaboration with healthcare teams and involves managing complex cases. Preferred candidates will have experience in Cardiothoracic Surgery and strong communication skills. This position offers competitive compensation and is expected to work onsite.

Qualifications

• Experience in Cardiothoracic Surgery preferred.
• Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to maintain quality control standards.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and manage critically ill patients in the ICU.
• Perform procedures like central line placement and bronchoscopy.
• Document all assessments and care plans in the EMR.

Skills

Critical care management

Excellent communication

Clinical judgment

Education

Current license to practice as a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant

Eligible for independent prescriptive authority

Job description

ICU – Day NP/PA Open Rank - Instructor, Sr. Instructor

Join to apply for the ICU – Day NP/PA Open Rank - Instructor, Sr. Instructor role at University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.

Department: Surgery, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery

Job Title: ICU – Day NP/PA Open Rank - Instructor, Sr. Instructor

Position #: 00839845

Location: Onsite – this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.

Job Summary: The candidate will provide comprehensive critical care management to postoperative cardiothoracic surgical patients, including those undergoing CABG, valve replacement, heart and lung transplants, and mechanical circulatory support. Specific duties include inpatient rounding, writing orders, managing MCS, performing procedures, discharge planning, and participating in care for cardiothoracic surgery patients in the ICU. Close collaboration with attending physicians, residents, nurses, and allied health professionals is required. The APP will be integral to ensuring the highest standards of patient care, safety, and outcomes in a high-acuity, fast-paced environment. This is primarily a daytime position; however, the candidate is expected to work some nights, weekends, and holidays. The candidate will also be expected to participate in the development of protocols and quality improvement for the care of cardiothoracic surgery patients. Eligibility for prescriptive authority is required.

Typical Physical Demands: The NP/PA position requires the ability to handle and lift patients and operate required equipment. The position may also require a stationary position or movement for extended periods as required during the provision of services. Frequent communication is required and the candidate must be able to exchange accurate information. The NP/PA may be exposed to communicable diseases and bodily fluids; universal safety precautions knowledge is expected.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate and manage critically ill patients on the cardiothoracic surgery services while in the ICU, including detailed history, physical, chart review, documentation of assessment and care plan daily or as needed.
• Evaluate and manage patients with urgent or emergent complaints in conjunction with the surgical team and intensivist.
• Perform comprehensive assessments, develop differential diagnoses, and initiate management plans for critically ill postoperative cardiac and thoracic patients.
• Independently manage ventilators, vasoactive medications, ECMO, and temporary mechanical circulatory devices under CTICU intensivists or cardiothoracic surgeons.
• Perform procedures including central line placement, arterial line insertion, chest tube management, IABP management, bronchoscopy and more (as credentialed).
• Participate in multidisciplinary rounds and actively contribute to care planning and coordination.
• Monitor patients’ progress, interpret lab/imaging results, and adjust treatments accordingly.
• Document all assessments, procedures, and care plans accurately in the EMR.
• Communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams regarding care goals, interventions, and outcomes.
• Participate in research activities including identifying patients for open clinical trials and facilitating participation.
• Attend required meetings and participate in committees as requested.
• Maintain competency through continuing education, conferences, and seminars; attend mandatory training.
• Participate in quality improvement activities; assist in maintaining compliance with JCAHO accreditation and other regulatory standards.
• Support and uphold organizational policies related to quality improvement, safety, environmental and infection control.
• Participate in the application process and development of a Center of Excellence designation as required.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and demonstrate collaboration, excellent communication, and teamwork across disciplines.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire. This is an open rank position and could be categorized as Instructor or Senior Instructor based on experience and qualifications:

• Instructor: Current license to practice as a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant; must be eligible for certification with independent prescriptive authority.
• Sr. Instructor: Experience as a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant in Cardiothoracic Surgery; prior APP experience in a CT ICU setting; 4 years of work experience aligned with position requirements.

Preferred Qualifications: Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to maintain quality control standards; knowledge of professional medical and surgical practice in cardiothoracic surgery.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of policies, regulations, and procedures; knowledge of medical equipment; safety awareness; clinical judgment; ability to document, communicate, and collaborate effectively; ability to react calmly in emergencies; ability to interpret and apply guidelines; team communication skills.

How to Apply: For full consideration, submit: a letter of interest, curriculum vitae/resume, and five professional references with contact information. Applications are accepted electronically at cu.edu/cu-careers. Questions: Stephanie Schneider, [e-mail]

Screening of Applications: This position may be seeking multiple candidates. Positions will remain open until filled. Applications will be reviewed as they are received; candidates may be contacted for interviews throughout the posting period. The posting will be closed when candidate(s) are selected.

Anticipated Pay Range: Hiring range for Instructor: $112,362 to $144,622; Sr. Instructor: $130,087 to $160,023. Total compensation includes benefits; overtime is not applicable unless non-exempt. Total compensation calculator: cu.edu/node/153125

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Colorado is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with laws governing nondiscrimination. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

ADA Statement: The University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. To request an accommodation, contact the HR ADA Coordinator at [e-mail].

Background Check Statement: The University conducts background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement: CU Anschutz encourages vaccination against COVID-19 and other vaccine-preventable diseases. Depending on role and facilities, vaccination and surveillance policies may apply.

Posting Details: Job Category: Faculty; Primary Location: Aurora; Department: U0001 -- Anschutz Med Campus or Denver; Schedule: Full-time; Posting Date: Sep 22, 2025; Unposting Date: Ongoing; Posting Contact: Stephanie Schneider; Posting Contact Email: [e-mail]; Position Number: 00839845