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Physician Assistant Jobs in the United States

Physician Assistant Jobs Overview

A physician assistant (PA) is a healthcare professional licensed to practice medicine under the supervision of a physician. Trained in a medical model curriculum, often similar to that of medical schools but condensed, PAs possess a broad skill set that allows them to perform various clinical duties. You can find physician assistant jobs in various specialties, including primary care, surgery, and emergency medicine.

Your responsibilities may vary depending on the healthcare setting, specialty, and the supervising physician's practice. Here's what a typical day could look like:

Conduct patient interviews to gather medical histories and perform physical examinations.
Interpret diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRIs, and lab results.
Provide patient education on disease management, prevention, and lifestyle choices.
Perform minor medical procedures, such as injections or wound dressings.
Order and interpret laboratory tests and imaging studies for diagnostic purposes.
Conduct follow-up appointments to monitor patient progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Maintain detailed patient records to ensure accurate documentation and facilitate ongoing care.

It’s an excellent time to enter this field as the job outlook is promising. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 27% growth rate over the next ten years.

Salaries for Physician Assistant Jobs

The annual median salary for physician assistants is $97,335. This ranges from $46,670 to $118,165. Keep in mind your pay will vary depending on your experience level and employer.

Your location also influences how much you can earn. For example, the states that pay more for physician assistants include Los Angeles, CA, and New York, NY.

Use Monster's Salary Tool to see how much you can earn in your area. You can also see the potential steps to advance your career and increase your income.

How to Find the Best Physician Assistant Jobs for You

Embarking on a career as a physician assistant is a significant commitment that involves extensive training, interpersonal skills, and a dedication to patient care. Here are some questions you might consider asking yourself when contemplating this journey:

Am I looking for a career with versatility in terms of specialties, work settings, and scope of practice?
What are my long-term career goals – where do I see myself in five to 10 years?
Am I willing to relocate for educational opportunities or job placements, potentially even to underserved areas?
Have I researched the job market for PAs in my desired location or specialty?
Am I open to various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, private practices, or even military service?
Are there opportunities for continuing education and professional development?

Analyze Descriptions for Physician Assistant Jobs

Job listings offer a wealth of information about each role and how well it aligns with your skills, aspirations, and lifestyle. Understanding the nuances can empower you to apply for jobs where you'd both excel and find fulfillment.

Firstly, zero in on the qualifications section. Make sure you meet the essential educational and licensure requirements. If there are "preferred" qualifications that you don't meet, weigh how critical they may be to the role and whether your other strengths can make up for them.

Next, study the scope of practice outlined in the description. Different settings have varying scopes for PAs, so ensure the job aligns with your skills and interests, whether primary care, surgical assistance, or specialized medicine. Knowing this can guide your decision-making process.

The work environment is another crucial aspect to consider. Job descriptions often provide clues about team dynamics, patient volumes, and organizational culture. Look for terms that indicate the pacing (e.g., "fast-paced"), the style of practice (e.g., "collaborative"), and the emphasis on patient care or research.

How to Apply to Physician Assistant Jobs

Applying for PA jobs is a multi-step process that demands careful preparation and attention to detail. Remember to tailor your resume and cover letter to each position, focusing on why you're a good fit for the specific role and healthcare setting. Also, ensure all your credentials, including state licensure and certifications, are up-to-date and easily verifiable.

Update Your Resume for Physician Assistant Jobs

Crafting a compelling resume is a pivotal step in your job search journey. This document should showcase your qualifications and emphasize how you can contribute to patient care and the medical team you'll be joining.

Include a brief, professional summary articulating your career goals and why you're applying for the PA position. Tailor this section for each job application to show you've done your homework about the employer.

Always use bullet points and action verbs to highlight your skills, such as "diagnosed," "treated," or "collaborated." when listing your clinical experiences. Mention any specific patient populations you've worked with, procedures you've performed, or medical settings in which you have experience.

Highlight soft skills like communication, teamwork, or patient care, along with technical proficiencies such as in electronic health record (EHR) systems or specific medical procedures. Also, make sure to list any additional certifications you hold, such as Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), that make you a more competitive candidate.

Take a look at our physician assistant resume sample for ideas on how to highlight your skills, training, and work experience. Or, contact Monster's Resume Writing Experts if yours needs a customized treatment.

Add a Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter for physician assistant jobs can set you apart from a sea of qualified candidates. It provides an opportunity to present a compelling narrative of who you are, what you bring to the table, and why you are the right fit for the specific role.

The main body should focus on why you're uniquely qualified for the role. Use specific examples from your clinical experience to illustrate your skills and proficiencies.

For instance, if the job description mentions a need for a PA skilled in cardiology, you might discuss your experience assisting in cardiac procedures or managing cardiac patients. Tailor your cover letter to echo the language and requirements in the job description, but always remain truthful about your abilities.

Remember to shift the focus from what you want to what you can offer the healthcare facility. Whether it's your knack for patient communication, your surgical assisting skills, or your ability to collaborate effectively with healthcare teams, emphasize your value add.

Submit Your Application

Sign up for your free profile on Monster and start looking for physician assistant jobs. Upload up to five versions of your resume, and we’ll help you get seen by top recruiters looking for skilled candidates. Take advantage of our customized job alerts to receive all the latest job postings matching your preferences. Remember to double-check your application for errors before sending it out.

Follow Up on Your Application

Following up on a job application is a delicate balance between showing your keen interest and not appearing too persistent. Here are some steps to make the process effective:

Wait for the period specified in the job posting, if any, before following up.
If no time frame is provided, waiting about one to two weeks is a good rule of thumb.
Email is often the most effective and non-intrusive way to follow up. If you don’t have a contact email, look on the company website for the HR department.
Begin by introducing yourself and reminding the employer of your application. State your continued interest in the position and the organization.
Inquire politely about the timeline for decisions or the next steps in the hiring process.
Consider attaching your resume and cover letter again for easy reference.

Interviewing Tips for Physician Assistant Jobs

Preparing for a PA job interview is a crucial step that can significantly influence the outcome of your application. Your interviewer will not only assess your technical skills and knowledge but also evaluate how well you'd fit into the existing healthcare team. Here's a guide to help you prepare effectively:

Do Your Research

Your first resource should be the job description itself. Understand the responsibilities, skills, and qualifications specified. This can clue you into what may be discussed and help you prepare relevant examples from your own experience.

Visit the healthcare facility's website for information about its specialties, mission, vision, and values. Are they known for excellence in a specific type of care, such as cardiology or pediatrics? These details can help tailor your responses to show you're an excellent cultural and professional fit.

Based on your research, develop insightful questions to ask during the interview. For instance, you could ask about their approach to telehealth if you've found that they recently expanded their virtual healthcare services.

Common Interview Questions

Here are some common questions you might encounter in your interview:

Can you discuss a particularly challenging case you've dealt with?
How do you handle conflicts within a healthcare team?
Describe a time when you had to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team. What was your role?
How do you approach communicating with patients who are anxious or scared?
Describe a time when you had to make a quick medical decision. What was your process?
How do you keep up with current medical research and guidelines?

Use the STAR method to structure your answers for behavioral questions. This will help you provide engaging responses that demonstrate your qualifications.

How to Follow Up After Your Interview

Following up after a job interview is an important step that often gets overlooked. It's not just a formality; it's a chance to reinforce your interest in the role and the organization and clarify any unanswered questions. Below are steps on how to handle the follow-up process effectively:

Aim to send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview.
Keep the tone professional and thank the interviewer for their time and the opportunity to discuss the role.
Reference specific parts of the conversation to make your note more personal and memorable. Use this opportunity to remind the interviewer why you are a good fit for the position.
If a timeline for the hiring decision was provided during the interview, respect it.
If no timeline was given, or if that period has passed, it's acceptable to send a polite follow-up email to inquire about the status of the hiring process.

What to Do When You Get an Offer

Receiving a job offer is a rewarding moment that validates your skills, qualifications, and the hard work you've invested in your job search. However, the process isn't entirely over yet.

First, examine the offer in detail. This includes salary and benefits like health insurance, retirement contributions, and any bonuses or stock options. Make sure to also consider other factors such as work hours, remote work options, and vacation days. Ask yourself if the package aligns with your career goals, financial needs, and lifestyle.

Research typical salaries and benefits for your role in your geographic area and industry. If elements of the offer are not up to your expectations or industry standards, prepare to negotiate. Be factual and respectful in presenting your case.

Physician Assistant Jobs: Career Paths

Navigating the landscape of advanced career paths calls for a multifaceted approach that combines research, networking, and skill development. Here's a guide to help you explore your options effectively:

Journals, magazines, and academic papers can provide information on emerging roles and sectors within healthcare where PAs can make a difference.
Join organizations like AAPA or your state’s PA association. Attend their events, webinars, and conferences to connect with professionals in advanced roles.
Connect with alums who have advanced in their careers as PAs for insights and potential mentorship.
Consider pursuing an advanced degree like a Master of Public Health (MPH) or Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) for management, policy, or public health roles.
If your organization offers various healthcare services, consider rotating to a different specialty to broaden your experience.

With additional education, certifications, and experience, you could progress into these roles:

Physician Assistant Jobs: Similar Occupations

Here are some related healthcare jobs that may interest you: