Physician Assistant

The University of Calgary Section of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery is excited to invite applications for a full-time Physician Assistant (PA) to join our dynamic and collaborative team of surgeons based primarily at the Foothills Medical Centre in Calgary. This role offers a diverse clinical experience across inpatient care, ambulatory clinics, emergency consultations, and surgical assisting. Working closely with otolaryngology staff surgeons, residents, and other allied health professionals, the PA will play a critical role in delivering high-quality, multidisciplinary, patient-centered care in both inpatient and outpatient settings. This position also offers opportunities to teach students in the Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program who have clinical rotations with the group, contribute to continuous quality improvement initiatives, and support continuity of care for complex patient populations. The PA will be a valued team member, with clear boundaries and supervision structures in place to foster independence, mentorship, and professional growth. The position will primarily be based at the Foothills Medical Centre, a level 1 trauma center, with the busiest surgical volume and inpatient census in Western Canada. The Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery team based at Foothills focuses primarily on cancers related to the head and neck and performs complex resections and reconstructions for patients with cancers of the tongue, throat, voice box, thyroid, salivary gland and several other subsites. Cancers of this nature can affect vision, smell, taste, speech and swallowing, and surgeries attempt to restore function within these deficits as best as possible.

The Physician Assistant (PA) will provide comprehensive clinical care in the field of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. The PA will have ample opportunity to onboard, with a carefully thought-out transition plan toward independent practice under the supervision of 4-5 attending physicians. The PA will work to full scope of practice, including: Performing and documenting comprehensive head and neck assessments on consults from inpatients, emergency room patients and outpatients. Assisting in and performing procedures such as otoscopy, nasolaryngoscopy, and tracheostomy care, initially under supervision and eventually independently. Participating in the emergency care of patients with conditions such as epistaxis, peritonsillar abscess, neck masses, and airway obstruction. Participating in the management and care of post-operative ENT patients on the ward. Attending and assisting in surgeries including thyroid, salivary gland, and major head and neck cancer resections. Round on patients with residents at prior to scheduled ORs for patient handover. Reviewing and discharging inpatients, following up on investigations, and coordinating care. Participating in outpatient clinics including head and neck cancer clinics, and minor surgery clinics. Providing patient education, documenting care, and contributing to discharge planning and follow-up care. Opportunity to accrue CME hours through both informal learning opportunities as well as structured lectures and teaching rounds. Opportunity to attend both local and national conferences related to the specialty. Regular performance and role evaluations. Carry first-line pager for PA-specific inquiries (dedicated PA pager). Participation in teaching with the U of C MPAS program, medical students and rotating learners. Collaboration with residents.

Graduate from a recognized Physician Assistant Education Program. Certified as a Canadian Certified Physician Assistant (CCPA) by PACCC or PA-C by the NCCPA (U.S.). Registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Current independent liability insurance.

Current certification in CPR (HCP level). ACLS is preferred. Demonstrated strong clinical reasoning, communication, and collaboration skills. Demonstrated enthusiasm for learning and being reliable. Experience or interest in ENT/Head and Neck Surgery is an asset but not required. Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a valid Canadian work permit.

As required.