Perfusionist II

LE0010 Stanford Health Care; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 123,000 - 162,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus $20,000

On-call rotation with in-house backup

State-of-the-art equipment

Extensive orientation

Career ladder and growth

Cardiothoracic services

Job summary

Stanford Health Care is seeking a Perfusionist to operate the heart-lung machine, monitor patient physiology, and manage perfusion support during complex cardiac procedures. You will work closely with surgeons and anesthesiologists in high‑pressure operating rooms.

Ideal candidates bring CCP certification and strong ECMO/VAD experience, along with meticulous documentation and adherence to safety protocols. SHC offers a comprehensive benefits package and leadership growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Education, training, and clinical experience in perfusion per California requirements.
• Active CCP certification required (CCP) and ability to perform complex perfusion duties.
• Experience with ECMO/VAD support is highly valued.

Responsibilities

• Operate the heart‑lung machine and related perfusion equipment in the OR.
• Monitor patient physiology and regulate oxygenation during CPB.
• Administer medications and manage anticoagulation and blood products.
• Document procedures and ensure sterile technique and safety standards.

Skills

Perfusion expertise

Critical care basics

Education

CCP Certification

Tools

Heart-Lung Machine

ECMO equipment

VAD systems

Job description

Job Overview

If you're ready to be part of our legacy of hope and innovation, we encourage you to take the first step and explore our current job openings. Your best is waiting to be discovered.

Why Join Us:

• New compensation structure
• $20,000.00 Sign‑On Bonus – contact us for additional information
• New growth and opportunities
• On‑call rotation with in‑house backup support
• State‑of‑the‑art equipment
• Extensive departmental orientation
• Comprehensive services within cardiothoracic surgery

Initial 10‑hour shifts, transitioning to 12‑hour shifts with a rotating on‑call schedule.

Location: United States of America

About Stanford Health Care

At Stanford Health Care, our Perfusionists play a crucial role in some of the most advanced surgical procedures globally. They operate the heart‑lung machine, support vital functions, and ensure stability during life‑saving operations. Their responsibilities extend beyond technical skills; they are trusted clinical partners to surgeons and anesthesiologists, managing oxygenation, administering medications, and making critical decisions in high‑pressure situations. Whether running ECMO for critically ill patients or supporting advanced VAD technology, our Perfusionists exemplify Stanford’s standard of excellence.

Responsibilities

• Operate the heart‑lung machine and other sophisticated equipment used in the operating room, such as physiological monitoring instrumentation and related ancillary equipment.
• Manage patient physiological functions throughout the procedure, including regulation of oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, monitoring circulation, administering blood products, anesthetic or other pharmaceutical agents through the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit.
• Monitored blood gases, anticoagulation, induction of hypothermia, hemodilution, and other duties as prescribed.
• Provide comprehensive knowledge of all policies and procedures concerning clinical perfusion.
• Provide special perfusion services as described under the guidelines found in the established manual of clinical protocols and procedures of SHC and/or direct order of the physician.
• Identify the needs of the patient regarding types of equipment, priming solution, and methodology in consultation with the surgeon and anesthesiologist.
• Communicate accurate information to the surgeon and the anesthesiologist concerning the patient response to the extracorporeal procedure.
• Perform safe perfusion performance, monitoring and/or management of perfusion including but not limited to: Extracorporeal circulation/cardiopulmonary support, counterpulsation equipment set‑up and operation, circulatory support with ventricular assist devices, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, autotransfusion and blood conservation techniques, myocardial preservation, anticoagulation and hematologic monitoring/analysis, physiologic monitoring/analysis, blood gas and blood chemistry monitoring/analysis, hyperthermia and hypothermia techniques, hemodilution techniques, hemofiltration techniques, profound hypothermia and circulatory arrest techniques, retrograde and antegrade cerebral perfusion, administration of medication, blood components and anesthetic agents via the extracorporeal circuit, vacuum assisted venous drainage (VAVD) and kinetic assisted venous drainage (KAVD).
• Maintains aseptic technique in assembling and operating perfusion equipment, follows manufacturer operating instructions for equipment and disposables, and utilizes safety devices when available.
• Assists in transport of VAD or high‑risk patients to Stanford Hospital.
• Works in a variety of clinical settings where patients require perfusion services (e.g., ICU, Cath lab, operating rooms).
• Records and maintains all data pertinent to extracorporeal procedures to ensure an adequate record of the procedure is developed.
• Correctly documents patient care and charges utilizing Stanford Hospital and Clinics approved documents.
• Performs other related and incidental duties as needed or assigned.

Career Ladder

The Perfusionist career ladder consists of four levels plus a lead based on management assessment of staffing needs.

• LevelI – Entry, trainee, and contributing level under close supervision. Incumbents are expected to obtain active ABCP certification as a CCP within two (2) years of appointment or be terminated from employment.
• LevelII – Career level where incumbents function at the full performance level. Under general supervision, incumbents perform the full range of clinical perfusion duties.
• LevelIII – Advanced, specialist and lead level. Incumbents at this level perform as a consultant to and may be designated lead‑worker for other Perfusionists. In addition to full duties, they assign and lead the work of other Perfusionists, may assist in recruitment, develop training, evaluate equipment, maintain records, may participate in research. Able to perform duties as shift contact Perfusionist.
• LevelIV – Team Lead or team supervisor for each shift. Able to perform and mentor most complex cases, grow and mentor staff on all aspects of Perfusion Services, ECMO and VAD management and perfusion therapy.

Coverage and On‑Call Responsibilities

On‑call responsibilities will be designated on the monthly call schedule. The On‑call Perfusionist is required to respond to any requests for perfusion service throughout the day of On‑Call responsibility. On‑Call responsibility is for 24 hours and begins at 06:00 and ends at 05:59 the following morning. The On‑call Perfusionist is expected to arrive at the hospital within 60 minutes from the time the request for service is made and remain available and inform the OR front desk of the most efficient method of contact.

Education, Training & Certifications

• Education, training, and clinical experience in perfusion that meet the requirements of the State of California as stipulated by Business and Professions Code Sections 2590-2596.
• Active certification as a Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP) by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) – must hold certification at LevelI.
• Demonstrated competency in ECMO and related support modalities and techniques, completed ECMO 101.
• Demonstrated competency in basic perfusion techniques for all procedures currently performed at Stanford Health Care.
• Demonstrated competency in at least one Mechanical Circulatory Support Device.
• Knowledge of cardiovascular anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, extracorporeal circulation technology, adjunct techniques, cardiac disease, congenital anomalies, organ preservation, sterile supply handling, pharmacology of blood, fluids, medications, and interaction with extracorporeal devices.
• Knowledge of blood components, plasma composition, and interaction with extra‑corporal circuits.
• Ability to anticipate and respond appropriately to serious patient and technical situations.
• Ability to follow orders, take directions, and implement written perfusion protocols.
• Ability to use formula and applied mathematics.
• Ability to learn and apply Joint Commission standards and protocols.
• High degree of discretion and judgment essential, ability to make immediate critical decisions.
• Ability to use computer technology and other technical skills.
• Compliance with basic life support (BLS) and basic certification (CCP).

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Pay Scale: Generally starting at $89.01 – $117.94 per hour.
• Sign‑on bonus: $20,000.00 (contact for details).
• New compensation structure.
• On‑call rotation with in‑house backup support.
• State‑of‑the‑art equipment.
• Extensive departmental orientation.
• Comprehensive services within cardiothoracic surgery.
• Professional growth and support with a four‑tiered career ladder.
• Supportive mentorship culture and collaborative team.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Stanford Health Care strongly values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity and non‑discrimination in all of its policies and practices, including the area of employment. Accordingly, SHC does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity and/or expression, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, or disability, or the perception of any of the above. People of all genders, members of all racial and ethnic groups, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Qualified applicants with criminal convictions will be considered after an individualized assessment of the conviction and the job requirements.