Cardiovascular Perfusionist

LCMC Health • Metairie, LA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

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. 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. For candidates early in their careers, LCMC Health provides structured support designed to build a strong clinical foundation while integrating safely into independent practice. 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.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree
• Graduate of an accredited Perfusion Education program
• 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).

Nice To Haves

• Prior adult perfusion experience preferred
• Master’s degree

Responsibilities

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

Benefits

• Mentorship
• Professional development
• Long-term career growth
• Structured support for new graduates
• Comprehensive training & onboarding
• Guidance and support toward successful American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) certification

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level