Congenital Heart Surgeon Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of medical science, the crucial role of congenital heart surgeons has never been more significant.

As advancements in the medical field continue, the need for skilled professionals who can diagnose, treat, and manage congenital heart defects grows ever more crucial.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a congenital heart surgeon?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of congenital heart surgery,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable congenital heart surgeon job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or medical career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Congenital Heart Surgeon Duties and Responsibilities

Congenital Heart Surgeons are specialized doctors who perform surgeries on patients with heart defects that are present at birth.

Their work is highly specialized and requires years of study, training, and precision.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting comprehensive examinations of patients to diagnose heart diseases and disorders
• Interpreting patient’s history, laboratory results, and diagnostic images to confirm medical conditions
• Performing complex surgical procedures on the heart, arteries and other blood vessels
• Consulting with patients and their families pre- and post-surgery to discuss the procedure, risks, and recovery
• Coordinating with other medical professionals, such as anesthesiologists and nurses, during surgeries
• Using medical imaging technologies to aid in surgical procedures and preoperative planning
• Advising and guiding medical students and junior doctors
• Keeping up-to-date with the latest surgical techniques and technologies
• Following strict safety procedures and quality standards to ensure the well-being of patients
• Conducting post-operative care, including wound care and follow-up examinations
• Documenting all procedures and patient progress for future reference

 

Congenital Heart Surgeon Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Congenital Heart Surgeon to join our healthcare team.

The candidate will be responsible for diagnosing and surgically treating congenital heart conditions in both children and adults.

Congenital Heart Surgeon duties include performing diagnostic tests, conducting follow-up visits, and performing various types of surgeries.

Our ideal candidate has an in-depth knowledge of the latest surgical procedures and superior technical abilities.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate patients’ medical histories to determine their physical conditions and suitability for surgery
• Perform surgical procedures to treat congenital heart defects in pediatric and adult patients
• Coordinate with other medical professionals, such as anesthesiologists, to ensure a successful surgery and recovery
• Monitor patient progress post-surgery and make any necessary adjustments to recovery plans
• Stay updated on the latest innovations in heart surgery
• Maintain patient records and document all surgeries and treatments performed
• Adhere to all medical and hospital regulations and guidelines
• Provide emotional support to patients and their families

 

Qualifications

• Doctor of Medicine degree from an accredited medical school
• Board certified in Cardiothoracic Surgery
• Completion of a fellowship in Pediatric Cardiac Surgery
• Exceptional knowledge of surgical procedures and diagnosing congenital heart disease
• Strong experience with various types of heart surgeries, such as valve replacements and bypass surgeries
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and dexterity to perform precise procedures
• Outstanding communication skills, with the ability to explain complex medical information to patients and their families
• Ability to maintain a calm, composed demeanor when dealing with high-stress situations

 

Benefits

• 401(k) with company match
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Malpractice insurance
• Relocation assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Congenital Heart Surgeon
• Work Environment: Hospital setting. Will be required to stand for long periods of time during surgeries and may need to respond to emergencies.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Cardiology or Hospital Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $300,000 minimum to $600,000 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, cover letter, and any relevant certifications or licenses to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Congenital Heart Surgeon Do?

Congenital Heart Surgeons are specialist medical professionals who operate on patients with heart defects that have been present from birth.

These surgeons perform complex surgeries to repair and correct congenital heart defects, which may include procedures like valve repairs, septal defect closures, and bypass surgeries.

They work closely with a team of healthcare professionals, such as cardiologists, pediatricians, and nurses, to determine the best surgical approach for their patients.

Congenital Heart Surgeons also provide pre-operative and post-operative care to their patients, which may involve follow-up appointments to monitor the patient’s recovery and response to the surgery.

They are also involved in the diagnosis process, interpreting diagnostic tests such as echocardiograms and angiograms, to fully understand the patient’s condition before deciding on the appropriate surgical intervention.

Additionally, they consult with patients and their families, explaining the surgical procedures and potential risks, while providing reassurances and answering any questions they might have.

Often, they engage in research to develop new surgical techniques, improve patient outcomes, and advance the understanding of congenital heart diseases.

 

Congenital Heart Surgeon Qualifications and Skills

Congenital Heart Surgeons are specialized professionals who require a unique set of skills and qualifications that include:

• Medical knowledge and understanding of the cardiovascular system, particularly the structure and function of the heart, to diagnose and treat congenital heart diseases.
• Technical skills to perform complex surgeries, including open-heart surgeries, transplants, and other procedures to correct congenital heart defects.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to withstand long hours of standing during surgery and the ability to perform precise and intricate operations.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly identify and address unexpected issues or complications that may arise during surgeries.
• Strong communication skills to discuss complex medical information with patients, their families, and the rest of the medical team.
• Compassion and empathy to understand and manage the emotional challenges faced by patients and their families.
• Continuous learning and staying updated with advancements in medical technology and surgical procedures related to congenital heart disease.
• Organizational skills and ability to multitask, as they often have to manage multiple patients and surgeries simultaneously.

 

Congenital Heart Surgeon Experience Requirements

Congenital heart surgeons must complete an extensive education and training process, which includes a Bachelor’s degree, a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree, a residency, and a fellowship.

After earning a Bachelor’s degree, typically in a pre-medical or science-related field, aspiring congenital heart surgeons must enter medical school to earn an MD degree.

This process generally takes around 4 years, with the first two years focused on theoretical knowledge and the last two years on clinical rotations.

Upon graduation from medical school, they must then complete a general surgery residency, which typically lasts 5 years.

This residency provides hands-on experience in a variety of surgical procedures.

Following the general surgery residency, an additional residency or fellowship in cardiothoracic or pediatric cardiac surgery is required.

This advanced training, often lasting 2-4 years, specifically focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical procedures related to heart conditions.

Afterwards, if they wish to specialize further in congenital heart surgery, they must complete another fellowship, usually lasting 1-2 years.

This provides them with specialized knowledge and experience in treating heart defects present at birth.

In total, a congenital heart surgeon will have at least 13-16 years of post-secondary education and training.

Some hospitals or medical facilities may prefer surgeons with more experience, such as those who have held a leadership role in a surgical team, or those who have conducted research in the field of congenital heart surgery.

 

Congenital Heart Surgeon Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a Congenital Heart Surgeon requires extensive education and training.

The journey begins with obtaining a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a field related to health sciences, though all premedical requirements must be met regardless of the major.

Subsequently, the aspiring surgeon must complete a four-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited medical school.

The first two years typically involve classroom and laboratory work, while the last two years are dedicated to clinical rotations in different medical specialties.

Once the medical degree is obtained, the individual needs to complete a general surgery residency, which lasts about five to seven years.

This residency provides the surgeon with comprehensive training in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of a variety of conditions.

Upon completion of a general surgery residency, the individual must then complete a cardiothoracic surgery fellowship, which typically lasts two to three years.

This is followed by an additional fellowship in congenital heart surgery, which usually lasts one to two years.

This means that after high school, it can take up to 16 years to become a congenital heart surgeon.

Licensing and certification are also required.

All states require surgeons to be licensed; requirements vary by state.

Additionally, most employers require congenital heart surgeons to be board certified, which involves passing a rigorous exam.

Continuing education is necessary to maintain licensure and certification.

This also allows the surgeon to stay abreast of the latest medical and surgical advancements in the field of congenital heart surgery.

A successful congenital heart surgeon also needs excellent manual dexterity, physical stamina, and the ability to make decisions under pressure.

 

Congenital Heart Surgeon Salary Expectations

A Congenital Heart Surgeon earns an average salary of $418,591 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can vary widely depending on factors such as the surgeon’s years of experience, specific skills, additional qualifications, the city or region in which they work, and the type of hospital or medical facility they are employed by.

 

Congenital Heart Surgeon Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a congenital heart surgeon need?

Congenital heart surgeons are required to have a medical degree and complete a residency in general surgery, followed by a fellowship in pediatric cardiovascular surgery.

They must be board certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery or equivalent, and have specific training in congenital heart surgery.

Some congenital heart surgeons also have additional training in pediatric cardiology.

 

What are the typical duties of a congenital heart surgeon?

Congenital heart surgeons typically consult with patients and their families, perform surgical procedures to correct congenital heart defects, and oversee patient recovery.

They often collaborate with a team of medical professionals, including pediatric cardiologists, to provide comprehensive care.

They also keep up-to-date with the latest research in their field and may contribute to research and medical publications.

 

What qualities make a good congenital heart surgeon?

A good congenital heart surgeon has excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for performing intricate surgeries.

They are patient, empathetic, and have strong communication skills to deal with the emotional and stressful situations that can arise when treating children with heart conditions.

Attention to detail and the ability to make quick, critical decisions are also crucial qualities.

 

How challenging is it to become a congenital heart surgeon?

Becoming a congenital heart surgeon is a challenging and lengthy process that involves many years of rigorous education and training.

The medical procedures they perform are complex, and the job can be emotionally demanding given the critical nature of the conditions they treat.

However, many surgeons find the work rewarding due to the profound impact they can have on a child’s life and health.

 

What should you look for in a congenital heart surgeon’s resume?

In addition to the necessary qualifications and certifications, look for evidence of hands-on experience in pediatric cardiac surgery.

This can include internships, residencies, and fellowships in relevant fields.

Also, check for any published research or involvement in professional associations, which demonstrate a commitment to staying current with advancements in the field.

Lastly, look for signs of strong interpersonal skills, as congenital heart surgeons need to work effectively with a diverse medical team and communicate sensitively with patients and their families.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a Congenital Heart Surgeon.

Surprised?

It’s not just about performing surgeries.

It’s about shaping healthier futures, one heartbeat at a time.

With our ready-to-use Congenital Heart Surgeon job description template and actual examples, you’re prepared to take the next step.

But why just stop at the start?

Take a deeper dive with our job description generator. It’s your tool for creating razor-sharp job listings or fine-tuning your CV to perfection.

Remember:

Every heartbeat matters in the grand scheme of life.

Let’s create healthier futures. Together.

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