Clinical Perfusionist: Advancing Cardiac Care for Our Veterans

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a highly dedicated and expert Clinical Perfusionist to join our specialized surgical team in Richmond, Virginia. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply your technical expertise in cardiopulmonary bypass and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) within a mission-driven environment. As a key member of the cardiothoracic team, you will ensure the highest standard of care for the men and women who have served our country.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will act independently to manage the physiologic and metabolic needs of patients during complex surgical procedures. Key responsibilities include:

Operating Life Support: Managing heart-lung machines and other life support systems such as LVAD, RVAD, and ECMO.
Patient Assessment: Creating pre-surgical plans in collaboration with surgeons and anesthesiologists.
Quality Control: Maintaining perfusion equipment, troubleshooting technical issues, and performing data analysis to ensure clinical excellence.
Education: Serving as a preceptor for students and providing in-service training for medical staff.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet several critical standards:

U.S. Citizenship: Required for all federal positions.
Education: Completion of a bachelor’s or master’s degree in perfusion from an accredited program (CAAHEP or EQualTM Canada).
Certification: Must be a current Board-Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP) by the ABCP.
English Proficiency: Must be fluent in written and spoken English.
Background Check: Successful completion of a security/suitability investigation.

Salary Overview

This position is classified at the GS-12 level, offering a highly competitive salary range.

Position Level	Salary Range (Annual)
Clinical Perfusionist (GS-12)	$142,145 – $184,792

Benefits

Joining the VA provides you with more than just a job; it provides a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:

Robust health, dental, and vision insurance.
Participation in the federal retirement system.
Significant annual and sick leave accrual.
Access to professional development programs and national cardiac conferences.

Application Tips

To maximize your chances, follow these steps:

Use the Template: Use the specific VA Clinical Resume document linked in the announcement.
Be Detailed: Clearly outline your experience with specific perfusion hardware and techniques.
Check Dates: Ensure all documentation is submitted before the September 30, 2026, deadline.

If you are a driven professional looking to apply your clinical skills where they matter most, the VA in Richmond is looking for you. Your expertise in perfusion will directly impact the lives of Veterans, ensuring they receive world-class surgical care. Apply today to begin your journey with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Why This Clinical Perfusionist Job Matters

Join the elite cardiac care team at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Richmond, VA, and provide life-saving perfusion support to those who served our nation.

Clinical Perfusionist Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a highly skilled Clinical Perfusionist to join our team in Richmond, Virginia. In this role, you will be instrumental in managing the physiologic and metabolic needs of patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) procedures. You will work in a collaborative environment with cardiothoracic surgeons and anesthesiologists to ensure safe, evidence-based patient care.

Requirements for Clinical Perfusionist

U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply in limited circumstances)
Bachelor's or Master's degree in perfusion from a CAAHEP or EQualTM Canada accredited program
Current Board Certification as a Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP) by the ABCP
At least one year of professional experience equivalent to the GS-11 level
Proficiency in spoken and written English
Compliance with annual seasonal influenza vaccination requirements
Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period

Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Perfusionist

Active state licensure or eligibility for licensure
Advanced clinical judgment in managing life support systems like LVAD, RVAD, and ECMO
Demonstrated experience in developing and managing perfusion regulatory programs
Proven track record in multi-disciplinary clinical team collaboration

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Federal employee retirement system (FERS) benefits
✓Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual
✓Professional development and continuing education support
✓Opportunities for federal career advancement

💡 How to Apply Clinical Perfusionist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Clinical Perfusionist Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Download and complete the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA.
Upload your resume, transcripts, and relevant professional certifications.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your full application package before the closing date.
Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview requests.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly details your experience in perfusion techniques, including specific systems managed.
Submit your transcript immediately, as it is a mandatory requirement for educational verification.
Double-check that your documents are uploaded to the correct fields, especially the specialized two-page resume document.
Apply well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of the VA in this role?

The mission is to fulfill the promise of caring for Veterans and their families by providing high-quality, compassionate, and evidence-based cardiac care.

Is travel required for this position?

No, this is a stationary position based in Richmond, Virginia.

Can I use foreign education to meet requirements?

Yes, but you must provide a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency along with your transcripts to receive credit.

Is there relocation assistance?

*A: No, relocation incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.*

What is the work schedule?

*A: The role is Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM, with additional evening and weekend call coverage.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is rooted in President Lincoln’s promise to provide care for those who have borne the battle, along with their families and caregivers. Working for the VA means becoming part of a community that values innovation, evidence-based practices, and, above all, the well-being of the Veteran population.