Medical Instrument Technician- Perfusionist

The Medical Instrument Technician (Perfusionist) is a specialized healthcare professional responsible for operating extracorporeal circulation equipment during medical procedures where it is necessary to temporarily support or replace a patient’s cardiopulmonary function. This includes heart-lung machines, blood oxygenators, and other circulatory support devices used during open-heart surgery and other critical cardiovascular procedures.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate and monitor heart-lung machines, ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation), intra-aortic balloon pumps, and autotransfusion equipment during surgical procedures.
• Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and operating room teams to ensure optimal patient outcomes during cardiopulmonary bypass and related interventions.
• Prepare and prime perfusion circuits and equipment according to surgical and procedural requirements.
• Monitor patient’s physiological parameters, including blood gases, anticoagulation levels, hemodynamics, and metabolic status during procedures.
• Maintain and calibrate perfusion equipment and troubleshoot technical issues during use.
• Document perfusion procedures, data, medications used, and machine settings accurately in the medical record.
• Assist with equipment sterilization and infection control processes in accordance with hospital protocols.
• Stay up to date with industry advancements, certifications, and participate in continuing education.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Education:

Associate or Bachelor’s degree in perfusion technology or an equivalent health science field.

• Licensure/Certification:
• Certification by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) preferred or required, depending on state regulation.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification required.
• Experience:

Minimum 1–2 years of experience operating cardiopulmonary bypass equipment, or completion of an accredited perfusion training program.

Skills & Abilities:

• Deep understanding of human cardiovascular and respiratory physiology.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills in high-pressure environments.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols precisely.
• Ability to remain calm and focused during emergencies or complex surgical cases.
• Strong interpersonal communication and teamwork skills.

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)