Perfusionist

East Jefferson General Hospital | LCMC Health | New Orleans, LA

Are you ready to take the next step in your Perfusionist career-whether you are an experienced clinician or a recent graduate beginning your transition into practice?

This position supports a growing, innovative program with exposure to advanced cardiac procedures, collaborative physician leadership, and a culture that values mentorship, professional development, and long-term career growth.

Program Highlights

You'll support a diverse and complex cardiac case mix, including:

• Open Heart Surgery
• Heart and Lung Transplant
• Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs)
• VA/VVO ECMO

Position Summary

The Perfusionist is a key member of the cardiothoracic surgical team responsible for operating the heart-lung machine during cardiac and major vascular procedures. The role ensures physiologic stability, anticoagulation, and life-support functions while working collaboratively with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals.

Support for New Graduate Perfusionists

We recognize that transitioning from graduate to practicing Perfusionist is a pivotal career milestone. For candidates early in their careers, LCMC Health provides structured support designed to build a strong clinical foundation while integrating safely into independent practice.

As needed, new graduate perfusionists may participate in a structured onboarding experience that includes:

• Personalized Mentorship: One-on-one pairing with an experienced Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP).
• Comprehensive Training & Onboarding: Graduated exposure to procedures, protocols, and equipment with clear competency expectations.
• Professional Development Resources: Guidance and support toward successful American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) certification.

New graduates will work alongside a CCP until they are fully trained and board-certified, ensuring confidence, competence, and patient safety.

Experienced perfusionists are onboarded based on prior experience and clinical competencies.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical & Technical Practice

• Operate, troubleshoot, and maintain perfusion equipment including heart-lung machines, autotransfusion systems, intra-aortic balloon pumps, VADs, and ECMO.
• Manage anticoagulation and reversal during extracorporeal procedures.
• Ensure effective myocardial protection and communicate key physiologic parameters to the surgical team.
• Monitor blood gases, electrolytes, hematocrits, urine output, blood pressure, cerebral perfusion, and anesthesia variables.
• Administer medications, blood, and blood products as directed.
• On-Call rotation as needed.

Quality & Documentation

• Perform point-of-care testing during cardiopulmonary bypass (ACTs, ABGs, electrolytes, hematocrits).
• Maintain accurate and complete perfusion documentation.
• Participate in STS data collection, reporting, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Support CAP point-of-care testing requirements and quality controls.

Patient Safety & Collaboration

• Review patient medical records, laboratory results, imaging, and medications.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to safety standards.
• Collaborate closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, nursing staff, and interdisciplinary partners.

Compliance & Department Support

• Follow departmental policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.
• Maintain inventory and par levels of perfusion and ECMO supplies.

Qualifications

Experience

• Experienced Perfusionists: Prior adult perfusion experience preferred
• New Graduates: Eligible to apply; structured support available

Education

• Required: Bachelor's degree
• Required: Graduate of an accredited Perfusion Education program
• Preferred: Master's degree

Licensure & Certification

• ABCP Certification or eligibility to sit for the exam within 6 months of hire, with certification required within 1 year.
• Louisiana Perfusionist License through the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners (or ability to obtain).

Why Join LCMC Health?

• Advanced cardiovascular and transplant programs
• Supportive onboarding tailored to experience level
• Collaborative, physician-led environment
• Commitment to mentorship, education, and career progression
• Mission-driven organization serving the Greater New Orleans community

Join LCMC Health and help shape the future of cardiovascular care-while building a meaningful and supported perfusion career.

WORK SHIFT:

Variable Hours (United States of America)