Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician - First Assist

Why Join Us

Central Valley Doctors Health System Physician Group invites you to join an established and growing cardiothoracic surgery team at Doctors Medical Center — a 465-bed, Joint Commission–accredited regional referral center in the heart of California's Central Valley. You'll work alongside experienced cardiothoracic surgeons in a high-acuity program equipped with cutting-edge technology, including an active TAVR program, ECMO capabilities, and a hybrid OR. This is a collaborative, team-based environment where advanced resources and dedicated support staff allow you to focus on delivering exceptional surgical care.

Position Highlights

• Full-time, employed position with Central Valley Doctors Health System Physician Group
• Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assist role supporting open and minimally invasive cases
• Primarily inpatient-focused with some outpatient follow-up
• Monday–Friday OR schedule, 7:00 AM–3:30 PM
• Call participation aligned with the cardiothoracic surgery team
• Work within a state-of-the-art surgical environment featuring:
  • Hybrid OR and Xi Da Vinci robotic system (3 units on site)
  • Active TAVR program and ECMO capabilities
  • Dedicated cardiothoracic nursing teams, CV PAs, and RNFAs
• Collaborative team includes cardiothoracic surgeons, anesthesiology, perfusion, nursing, and ICU teams
• Facility is a certified STEMI Center and Comprehensive Stroke Center with 4 ICUs and 44 critical care beds

What We Offer

• Compensation ranging from $600,000–$850,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications
• CME allowance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Malpractice insurance provided
• Health, dental, and life insurance
• 401(k) with employer matching
• Deferred compensation program
• Relocation assistance

Candidate Requirements

• MD or DO degree required
• Completed surgical training with experience functioning as a first assist
• Prior cardiothoracic surgery experience strongly preferred
• Board eligible or board certified (or equivalent surgical board eligibility)
• California licensed or eligible to obtain licensure in California

Why Modesto

Modesto sits at the heart of California's Central Valley, offering a lower cost of living than coastal metros without sacrificing access to world-class destinations — Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, and San Francisco are all within a two-hour drive. The city boasts a warm, family-friendly community with well-regarded schools, a growing arts and dining scene, and a strong agricultural heritage that feeds some of the best farm-to-table cuisine in the state. Affordable housing, shorter commutes, and a tight-knit professional community make Modesto an increasingly attractive choice for physicians seeking balance between career and lifestyle.