Your Opportunity

The University of Calgary Section of Orthopedic 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 with a focus on providing inpatient care to a complicated patient group, in addition to contributing to the coverage of our acute care coverage. There may be additional opportunities over time for work in the outpatient setting in subspecialty clinics. Working closely with staff surgeons, residents, and other allied health professionals, the PA will play a critical role in delivering high-quality, multidisciplinary, patient-centred care in primarily the inpatient setting. 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 Foothills Medical Centre is a tertiary referral centre and renowned teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Calgary. Seven highly trained trauma surgeons provide evidence-based care for acute single limb and polytraumatized patients. They provide tertiary care for subacute complex peri-articular injuries, nonunions, and malunions for southern British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan.

Description

The Physician Assistant (PA) will provide comprehensive clinical care in the field of Orthopedic Surgery. The PA will have ample opportunity to onboard, with a carefully thought-out transition plan toward independent practice under the supervision of 7 attending physicians. The PA will work to full scope of practice, including: Performing and documenting comprehensive assessments and consults from inpatients and emergency room patients. Participating in the emergency care of patients with a variety of acute and subacute conditions. Participating in the management and care of post-operative orthopedic surgery and trauma patients on the ward. Assisting with surgical procedures in the operating room alongside fellows and residents. Reviewing and discharging inpatients, following up on investigations, and coordinating care. Participating in after hours and overnight coverage for orthopedic surgery, not to exceed 4 shifts per month. 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. Additional Responsibilities: Carry first-line pager for PA-specific inquiries (dedicated PA pager). Participation in teaching including with the U of C Masters of Physician Assistant Studies program, medical students and rotating learners. Collaboration with residents. Research opportunities.

Classification: Physician Assistant Union: Exempt Unit and Program: Surgery Ortho Trauma Primary Location: Foothills Medical Centre Location Details: As Per Location Negotiable Location: Within Calgary Zone Employee Class: Regular Full Time FTE: 1.00 Posting End Date: 11-AUG-2026 Date Available: 01-SEP-2026 Hours per Shift: 7.75 Length of Shift in weeks: 2 Shifts per cycle: 10 Shift Pattern: Days Days Off: As Per Rotation Minimum Salary: $48.26 Maximum Salary: $68.45 Vehicle Requirement: Not Applicable

Required Qualifications

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.

Additional Required Qualifications

Current certification in CPR (HCP level). Demonstrated strong clinical reasoning, communication, and collaboration skills. Demonstrated enthusiasm for learning and being reliable. Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a valid Canadian work permit.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience or interest in Orthopedic Trauma Surgery is an asset but not required. ACLS is preferred.