Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System

Lead a Top-Tier Program. Deliver Exceptional Outcomes.

The Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center (#2 ranked cardiothoracic surgery program in the VA system) seeks an outstanding Chief Cardiothoracic Surgeon to lead our high-performing team. This is a premier opportunity to advance innovation, mentor future leaders, and sustain excellence in a program renowned for its exceptional clinical outcomes—all while serving our nation’s Veterans.

Note: Our program focuses on advanced cardiac surgery (TAVR, LVAD, ECMO) and does not perform heart transplants.

Why Join Us?

National Recognition: Lead one of the VA’s top-ranked cardiothoracic programs (#2 nationally), with outcomes that rival private academic centers.

Cutting-Edge Practice: Drive innovation in TAVR, LVAD, ECMO, and complex cardiac surgery—supported by robust research infrastructure.

VA Total Rewards:

Competitive Salary + Annual Performance Bonus

Generous PTO: 50-55 days/year (leave, holidays, CME)

Federal Pension & 401K (5% match)

Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) – Up to $200K in student loan repayment*

Relocation/Recruitment Incentive for eligible candidates

Malpractice Coverage + Tail Insurance

No Employment Contract Moonlighting Allowed

Academic Leadership: Collaborate with Case Western Reserve University, mentor trainees, and lead outcomes research with VA funding opportunities.

Role Highlights

Serve as the clinical, administrative, and academic leader for a high-volume Cardiothoracic Surgery service.

Oversee a diverse team of surgeons, APPs, and trainees in a culture of excellence.

Sustain top-tier outcomes in TAVR, LVAD, and complex cardiac surgery (no heart transplants).

Chair the section’s research program—statistical expertise and VA grant experience preferred.

Ensure highest safety/quality standards (Joint Commission, VA benchmarks).

Ideal Candidate

Board-certified in Cardiothoracic Surgery with 5+ years of advanced experience (LVAD, TAVR, ECMO).

Proven leadership (prior Chief/Division Director or Associate Professor+ preferred).

Passion for Veteran care, teaching, and outcomes-driven research.

U.S. Citizenship required.

How to Apply

Schedule: Monday–Friday (8:00 AM–4:30 PM)

Location: Cleveland, OH – A thriving metro with top schools, cultural amenities, and affordability.

Lead Where It Matters Most.

Full Time