Cardiovascular Perfusionist

LCMC Health•Metairie, LA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

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? LCMC Health is proud to offer an exciting opportunity to join the state‑of‑the‑art Cardiovascular / Heart Program at East Jefferson General Hospital, one of the region’s most respected community hospitals. 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 At LCMC Health, we are committed to exceptional patient care, clinical excellence, and investing in our people—supporting perfusionists at all stages of their careers. 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.

Requirements

Experienced Perfusionists: Prior adult perfusion experience preferred
New Graduates: Eligible to apply; structured support available
Required: Bachelor’s degree
Required: 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

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.