We are recruiting for a premier pediatric cardiac surgery team for a dedicated Congenital Cardiac Surgery First Assist opportunity.
This role supports a tight-knit group of congenital cardiac surgeons in the DFW region.
This 1099 position offers uncapped, productivity-based earning potential through a transparent daily call rate plus per-case compensation, paired with a clinical culture that actively protects work-life balance. It's an exceptional fit for a first assistant who wants to commit fully to congenital cardiac surgery and grow within a stable, well respected team known for outstanding provider retention.
Core Responsibilities
Intraoperative Surgical First Assist - Congenital Cardiac
- First assist across the full spectrum of congenital procedures, including ASD/VSD repair, tetralogy of Fallot repair, complete AV canal repair, arterial switch, coarctation repair, and conduit placements.
- Assist with single-ventricle palliation pathways, including the Norwood, bidirectional Glenn, and Fontan procedures.
- Support cannulation and decannulation for cardiopulmonary bypass, sternotomy and re-entry, intracardiac repair, hemostasis, and chest closure.
- Provide consistent, anticipatory assistance tailored to the technique preferences of each surgeon on the team.
Requirements
We're looking for an efficient, adaptable, and confident first assistant who thrives in a focused, surgeon-led pediatric cardiac environment.
Clinical Experience
- 1 to 2+ years of dedicated cardiac surgery first assist experience.
- Congenital or pediatric cardiac surgery experience strongly preferred; adult cardiac first assists with a clear interest in transitioning to congenital work will be considered.
- Experience in a high-volume cardiovascular surgery program is strongly preferred.
Licensure & Certifications
- Active certification as an NP or PA, RNFA (Registered Nurse First Assistant), or CSFA (Certified Surgical First Assistant)
- Current, valid first-assist certification in the United States.
- Active or eligible for Texas licensure.
Compensation & Benefits
- Uncapped Earning Potential: Transparent, productivity-based structure featuring a daily call rate plus per-case compensation.
- Work-Life Balance: The practice actively manages workloads, offering lighter assignments after demanding OR days to prevent burnout.
- 1099 Tax Advantages: Maximize your income with no Texas state income tax and robust business deductions for CME, travel, equipment, and health insurance.
- Stability & Culture: High retention rate, with many providers staying 10 to 25+ years in a respectful, collaborative environment built around a small, consistent surgical team.
- Specialized Growth: Deepen your expertise in complex congenital and single-ventricle surgery working directly alongside experienced pediatric cardiac surgeons.
- DFW Location: Affordable cost of living, top-tier school districts, excellent airport access, and world-class cultural and sports amenities.
About Hire Caliber Staffing
Hire Caliber Staffing specializes in cardiothoracic surgery recruitment for premier CT surgery programs and surgical groups nationally. We work directly with you to understand your clinical background, case mix, and long-term goals, then discreetly market your profile to programs that align with what you're actually looking for. Our goal is to position you for the right opportunity, not just the next one. Through our network, you gain clear, upfront insight into case volume, team structure, OR expectations, and compensation models so you can make informed decisions before engaging.
If you're not actively looking but want to stay informed on high-quality congenital and cardiovascular OR opportunities, we encourage you to join our network.
Next Steps
To discuss this opportunity or explore other tailored positions within your specialty, submit your credentials today for a confidential review with our CT surgery staffing specialists.
Benefits:
Experience:
- Cardiac Surgery First Assist: 1 year (Required)
- Congenital Cardiac Surgery: 1 year (Preferred)
License/Certification:
- NP/PA, or RNFA, or CSFA certification (Preferred)
Work Location: On the road
