Perfusionist

Class Specification – H.10

Principal Perfusionist – 9036
Principal Perfusionist Per Diem – 5388
Senior Perfusionist – 9027
Senior Perfusionist EX – 9509
Senior Perfusionist Per Diem – 9039
Perfusionist – 9028
Perfusionist EX – 9510
Perfusionist Per Diem – 9038

January 1990, Titles Updated August 2026

Series Concept

Perfusionists are responsible for operating heart-lung and other specialized equipment during procedures that require cardiopulmonary bypass, such as open-heart surgeries, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and heart or liver transplants. They assemble, operate, and maintain heart-lung machines and related devices under sterile conditions to ensure optimal performance. In addition, perfusionists assist in procuring perfusion equipment, maintain inventory and maintenance records, and may participate in clinical research activities involving the testing and application of new techniques and organ perfusion technologies, including pumps, oxygenators, and heat exchangers. They may also take part in formal training programs for technicians, oversee the work of other perfusionists, and contribute to the recruitment and selection process. The series consists of three levels: operational, advanced operational, and lead. The distinction between levels is based on the complexity of case assignments and the assignment of lead responsibilities. The perfusionist series recognizes supervisory responsibility at the Principal level.

Class Concepts

Principal Perfusionist
Principal Perfusionist Per Diem

Under general supervision, incumbents serve in a lead capacity performing the tasks outlined in the Series Concept. In addition to lead duties, incumbents also perform advanced operational duties found at the Senior Perfusionist level. The Perfusionist series recognizes supervisory responsibility at this level.

Senior Perfusionist

Senior Perfusionist Per Diem

Under supervision, incumbents perform advanced operational duties. Incumbents are assigned the most difficult cases requiring special training, such as neonatal and pediatric cases; and perform the normal range of duties outlined in the series concept.

Incumbents may participate in equipment evaluation and procurement; maintain records on equipment use and maintenance; participate in research programs involving testing and evaluation of experimental techniques and equipment; participate in formal training programs and perform the normal range of duties outlined in the series concept.

Perfusionist

Perfusionist Per Diem

Under supervision, incumbents perform the range of clinical duties outlined in the series concept.

This is the operational level of the series where the majority of positions are allocated.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants and incumbents are expected to possess the skills, knowledge, and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.