Overview
We are seeking an experienced ECMO Specialist to join our high-acuity Critical Care team. This role provides advanced Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) management for neonatal, pediatric, and adult patients requiring life-sustaining cardiopulmonary support.
The ECMO Specialist independently manages ECMO circuits, monitors patient hemodynamics, and collaborates with intensivists, surgeons, and bedside nurses to ensure optimal perfusion, oxygenation, and acid-base balance. This is an ideal opportunity for experienced ICU Registered Nurses (RN) or Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRT) seeking advanced practice in extracorporeal life support within a high-performing program.
Responsibilities
ECMO Circuit & Patient Management
• Operate, monitor, and troubleshoot ECMO circuits and related equipment • Maintain circuit integrity and ensure patient safety • Manage anticoagulation, blood products, and medication delivery • Support hemodynamic stability and perfusion within ordered parameters • Manage CRRT (Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy) when integrated with ECMO • Respond rapidly to emergencies and mechanical complications
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
• Partner with ICU nurses, physicians, perfusionists, and respiratory teams • Facilitate safe mobility and participation in Physical/Occupational Therapy • Participate in multidisciplinary rounds and care planning
ECMO Transport
• Participate in ground, helicopter, and fixed-wing ECMO transports • Provide advanced extracorporeal life support during interfacility transfers
Quality & Program Development
• Perform quality assurance, preventive maintenance, and equipment checks • Contribute to quality improvement and benchmarking initiatives • Assist ECMO Medical Director and Coordinator with program optimization • Maintain ongoing professional development and ECMO education
Qualifications
Education & Licensure
Graduate of an accredited: • Respiratory Therapy program (RRT - Florida license required) - OR - • Registered Nurse program (RN - Florida license required)
Experience
Minimum 2 years ICU experience Preferred: 1+ year ECMO Specialist experience with formal primer training
Required Certifications
BLS (Basic Life Support) ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) - within 6 weeks of hire PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) - within 6 weeks of hire
Ideal Candidate Profile
Strong background in CVICU, CTICU, PICU, NICU, or Medical ICU Advanced knowledge of hemodynamics, perfusion, and acid-base balance Confident managing high-acuity cardiopulmonary life support Calm under pressure with strong crisis management skills Committed to clinical excellence and continuous improvement