Physician Assistant - Head and Neck Surgery

The Department of Head and Neck Surgery at MD Anderson continues to develop innovative treatments aimed at improving cure rates while preserving appearance and function in patients with head and neck cancers. Our physicians collaborate closely with teams from Radiation Oncology, Medical Oncology, Speech Pathology, Oncologic Dentistry, Radiology, and Pathology to create individualized treatment approaches.
Patients benefit from the combined expertise of our senior physicians and comprehensive care teams, including physician assistants, nurses, nutritionists, social workers, and care coordinators-all committed to supporting patients throughout their cancer journey. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a world-class cancer center while developing specialized skills in Head and Neck Surgery.

We are seeking a collaborative, quick-learning, and communicative Physician Assistant (PA) with a strong interest in surgery and clinical care to join our Head and Neck Surgery team. This role supports a multidisciplinary, patient-focused environment where clinical excellence, research engagement, and compassionate care converge. Travel between the Texas Medical Center and the various Houston Area Locations (HALs) campuses is required.

The ideal candidate is a quick learner with a strong interest in surgery and clinical practice. They demonstrate excellent communication skills, work well in a collaborative, team-based environment, and adapt easily to new workflows, clinical procedures, and patient care needs. This individual embraces continuous learning, contributes positively to the surgical team, and maintains professionalism in all interactions.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Prior experience as a Physician Assistant in surgery, outpatient oncology, or Ear, Nose, Throat (ENT) / Head and Neck settings preferred.
• Will consider new graduates with strong clinical acumen and relevant training.

Salary Range: Minimum $117,500.00 - Midpoint $146,500.00 - Maximum $176,500.00

MD Anderson offers our employees:
• Paid employee medical benefits (zero premium) starting on first day for employees who work 30 or more hours per week
• Group Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D and Disability coverage
• Paid time off (PTO) and Extended Illness Bank (EIB) paid leave accruals
• Paid institutional holidays, wellness leave, childcare leave, and other paid leave programs
Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service
• Teachers Retirement System defined-benefit pension plan and two voluntary retirement plans
Employer paid life, AD&D and an illness-related reduced salary pay program
• Extensive wellness, recognition, fitness, employee health programs and employee resource groups.

Key Responsibilities:
• Conduct pre- and post-operative evaluations and assist in surgeries for Head and Neck Surgery patients.
• Perform minor procedures such as wound care, drain removal, tracheostomy care, and incision and drainage.
• Counsel patients and families, coordinate care with physicians, and manage clinical documentation and follow-ups.
• Serve as a communication hub for patients, families, and healthcare professionals to ensure continuity and quality of care.
• Support research activities including protocol development, IRB submissions, and regulatory compliance.

Join Us
. If you're ready to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to apply.

EDUCATION

Required: Master's Degree Accredited Physician Assistant (PA) program by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA), except for Physician Assistants who graduated from a PA program prior to 2013.

EXPERIENCE
Preferred: Prior experience as an APP preferred (surgery, outpatient oncology clinic setting, or ENT/ Head and Neck experience a plus) but will consider new graduates. Prior experience as a physician assistant from an APP fellowship program or through work history.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Required: PAC - Physician Assistant Certification by the National Commission of Certification of Physician Assistants. Upon Hire and
• Required: PA - Physician Assistant Licensed by the Texas State Board of Physician Assistant Examiners Upon Hire and
• Required: MAY BE REQUIRED: Eligible to be granted limited prescriptive authority by the State of Texas. Upon Hire and
• Required: BLS - Basic Life Support American Heart Association (AHA). Upon Hire and
• Required: ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support American Heart Association (AHA). Upon Hire or
• Required: PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support American Heart Association (AHA). If working in one of following department: Pediatrics - Patient Care (113100). Upon Hire

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and individual and team recognition.

This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined in Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code and therefore may require routine reviews and screening. The ability to satisfy and maintain all requirements necessary to ensure the continued security and integrity of such infrastructure is a condition of hire and continued employment.

It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state, or local laws unless such distinction is required by law.