Cardiac Surgeon Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving field of healthcare, the role of cardiac surgeons is of paramount importance.

As medical advancements progress, the demand for skilled individuals who can operate, improve, and safeguard our cardiovascular health continues to rise.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a cardiac surgeon?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A medical recruiter formulating the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of cardiac surgery,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable cardiac surgeon job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Cardiac Surgeon Duties and Responsibilities

Cardiac Surgeons perform a variety of surgical procedures on the heart and blood vessels.

They are highly trained specialists who are required to be precise and accurate in their work.

Here are the primary duties and responsibilities of a Cardiac Surgeon:

• Evaluate patients to determine the need for heart surgery
• Perform different types of cardiac surgeries such as coronary artery bypass, heart valve repair and replacement, and heart transplant
• Explain surgical procedures and risks to patients and their families
• Make decisions regarding the best surgical techniques to use for specific patient cases
• Work closely with other healthcare professionals including anesthesiologists, cardiologists, and nurses during surgeries
• Maintain detailed notes on each surgery for patient records
• Monitor patients’ recovery after surgery and provide appropriate post-operative care
• Participate in research to develop new surgical techniques and improve patient outcomes
• Stay up-to-date with latest advancements in cardiac surgery and complete required continuing education
• Adhere to all relevant medical protocols and regulations to ensure patient safety

 

Cardiac Surgeon Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and highly skilled Cardiac Surgeon to join our team.

The Cardiac Surgeon will be responsible for diagnosing and surgically treating conditions of the heart, lungs, and blood vessels.

The successful candidate will demonstrate exceptional surgical skills, be able to make quick decisions under pressure, and possess a strong understanding of the latest surgical techniques and technology.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform surgical procedures to treat conditions of the cardiovascular system.
• Provide preoperative and postoperative care to patients.
• Diagnose and treat diseases of the cardiovascular system using nonsurgical and surgical methods.
• Document patient medical history and surgical procedures performed.
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient care.
• Participate in continuing education to stay updated on best practices in the field.
• Conduct research to improve surgical procedures and patient outcomes.

 

Qualifications

• Medical Degree from an accredited medical school.
• Completed residency in general surgery and a fellowship in cardiovascular surgery.
• Board certified in thoracic or cardiovascular surgery.
• Strong knowledge of cardiovascular diseases, diagnosis, and treatment methods.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
• Ability to handle high-stress situations and make decisions quickly.

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Continuing education allowance
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cardiac Surgeon
• Work Environment: Hospital setting. Requires long hours, on-call shifts, and emergency situations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief of Surgery.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $410,000 minimum to $598,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and any relevant certifications to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cardiac Surgeon Do?

Cardiac Surgeons are specialized physicians who operate on the heart and other parts of the cardiovascular system.

They work primarily in hospitals and surgical centers.

Their main responsibility is to perform surgeries to treat conditions such as heart diseases, coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, and congenital heart defects.

These surgeries can include heart bypass surgery, heart valve repair or replacement, and the implantation of pacemakers or defibrillators.

Before surgery, Cardiac Surgeons diagnose patient’s conditions using tests like echocardiograms or cardiac catheterizations.

They also consult with patients about the risks and benefits of surgery and other potential treatments.

During surgery, they lead a team of other medical professionals, which may include anesthesiologists, surgical nurses, and surgical technologists.

They make critical, often split-second decisions about patient care based on their extensive knowledge and experience.

After surgery, they monitor patient’s recovery and work closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure a smooth recovery.

They may also conduct follow-up appointments to monitor the patient’s long-term progress.

In addition to clinical duties, many Cardiac Surgeons also conduct research or teach in academic settings.

 

Cardiac Surgeon Qualifications and Skills

A proficient cardiac surgeon should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Medical knowledge and technical competency in performing a variety of cardiac surgical procedures.
• Excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to perform precise surgical operations.
• Strong communication skills to clearly explain diagnoses, procedures, and post-operative care to patients and their families.
• Interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with other medical professionals, including nurses, anesthesiologists, and cardiologists.
• Ability to handle high-stress situations and make critical decisions quickly during surgeries.
• Detail-oriented to ensure all aspects of patient care are carefully monitored and attended to.
• Strong commitment to continual learning due to the constantly evolving nature of medical procedures and research.
• Excellent physical stamina to endure long hours of standing during surgical procedures.

 

Cardiac Surgeon Experience Requirements

Becoming a Cardiac Surgeon requires a significant amount of education, training, and experience.

After earning a bachelor’s degree, aspiring Cardiac Surgeons must attend four years of medical school, followed by a general surgery residency of five to seven years.

This is usually followed by a two to three years fellowship in cardiothoracic surgery for specialized training.

In total, this path can take up to 15 years, so a Cardiac Surgeon will have a substantial amount of hands-on experience upon entering the field.

This includes time spent in both clinical and surgical settings, working under the supervision of experienced surgeons.

Post-training, surgeons may start their careers at a hospital or clinic.

Those with 1 to 2 years of experience are considered entry-level but are fully capable of performing surgeries and making critical decisions.

Cardiac Surgeons with more than 5 years of experience often have a substantial number of surgeries under their belt, and they may also have experience in research or teaching.

They are also likely to have developed surgical subspecialties.

Those with over 10 years of experience are typically considered highly experienced and may be in leadership positions within their surgical teams or departments.

They may also be involved in more complex cardiac surgical procedures.

Continuing education and staying abreast of advancements in the field is a critical part of a cardiac surgeon’s career development.

 

Cardiac Surgeon Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a cardiac surgeon requires a long period of extensive education and training.

The initial step is obtaining a bachelor’s degree with a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, and physics.

This is often followed by four years of medical school, where students learn the basics of medicine and clinical practice.

After completing medical school, aspiring cardiac surgeons must complete a 5-year general surgery residency program.

This gives them the opportunity to acquire comprehensive surgical skills and medical knowledge.

After this, they must then complete a 2-3 year specialized cardiothoracic surgery residency or fellowship, where they learn the specific skills needed for heart surgery.

After their residency, cardiac surgeons must become board certified in general surgery and cardiac surgery by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery.

This involves passing a rigorous set of exams.

Continuous learning and training is also expected in this role, as cardiac surgeons need to stay updated on the latest techniques and technologies in their field.

Many surgeons attend conferences, participate in workshops, and read medical journals to stay informed.

Due to the complex nature of the heart and the surgeries performed on it, becoming a cardiac surgeon requires a high degree of skill and education.

Despite the long and demanding path, the role is highly rewarding and allows surgeons to make a significant difference in patients’ lives.

 

Cardiac Surgeon Salary Expectations

A Cardiac Surgeon earns an average salary of $409,665 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can significantly vary based on factors such as years of experience, specialized skills, geographical location, and the reputation of the healthcare institution.

 

Cardiac Surgeon Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Cardiac Surgeon need?

Cardiac Surgeons need exceptional hand-eye coordination and dexterity to perform delicate operations.

They should have strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make split-second decisions under pressure.

Furthermore, excellent communication and interpersonal skills are necessary to explain complex medical conditions to patients and their families, as well as coordinate with a medical team.

 

What is the educational requirement for a Cardiac Surgeon?

Becoming a Cardiac Surgeon requires extensive education and training.

This includes a four-year undergraduate degree, typically in a science field, four years of medical school, and a five to seven-year general surgery residency.

After this, an additional two to three-year specialized cardiothoracic surgery fellowship is required.

After completing these steps, the surgeon must pass certification exams to be licensed to practice.

 

What should you look for in a Cardiac Surgeon resume?

In a Cardiac Surgeon’s resume, one should look for a strong educational background with a specialty in cardiothoracic surgery.

They should have completed an accredited residency and fellowship program.

Board certification in their specialty is also crucial.

Additionally, look for any research work, publications, or professional memberships, which indicate ongoing engagement with their field.

 

What qualities make a good Cardiac Surgeon?

A good Cardiac Surgeon is not only highly skilled in surgical procedures but also has a deep understanding of cardiology.

They should be empathetic and have good bedside manners to comfort and reassure patients.

They must be good team players, as cardiac surgery often requires coordinating with a large medical team.

Attention to detail, mental stamina, and the ability to perform under high-stress situations are other qualities that make a good Cardiac Surgeon.

 

Is it challenging to hire Cardiac Surgeons?

Yes, hiring Cardiac Surgeons can be challenging due to the high level of specialization and extensive training required for the job.

Additionally, the demand for experienced Cardiac Surgeons often exceeds the supply.

Therefore, it’s essential to offer competitive salaries and benefits, a supportive work environment, and opportunities for continuing education and research.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the core of what it truly means to be a cardiac surgeon.

And here’s the surprise:

It’s not just about performing surgeries.

It’s about sculpting the landscape of cardiovascular health, one heart at a time.

With our comprehensive cardiac surgeon job description template and real-world instances, you’re well-equipped to take your next step.

But why limit yourself?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your CV to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every surgical procedure contributes to the larger picture of heart health.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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