(PA) Sr. Physician Assistant, Head & Neck Oncology - 137314

UC San Diego Health is consistently ranked among the top 50 in the nation for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report. In 2025-26, we are proud to be ranked No. 41. We are also the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in San Diego County. The NCI designation is the highest possible rating for a U.S. cancer center, and it means you'll receive the best possible care and support.

In collaboration with Attending Oncologists, the Sr. Physician Assistant (PA) conducts independent follow-up survivorship visits, new survivorship visits, and procedures for surveillance. Acts as a liaison and collaborates with the multidisciplinary care team. Provides patient/family and staff education. Supports the development and revision of divisional policies and procedures. The primary focus is on providing direct and indirect patient care to manage the healthcare needs of the identified oncology patient population, including survivorship. Also provides care using advanced practice skills in physical exam, diagnosis, and treatment. Participates in and/or initiates research. The PA will provide routine care and management of head and neck oncology patients, in collaboration with other healthcare team members. Responsible for providing excellent patient care, offering a high level of compassion and comfort, and discussing pain and symptom management to develop the patient's plan of care.

Demonstrates a high level of professionalism, excellent verbal and written communication skills and leadership core competencies. Has the ability to function as part of an interdisciplinary team. Has the ability to understand the medical as well as psychosocial needs of a patient population with cancer. Will work with and evaluate patients on clinical trials. May perform procedures.

• Must be a graduate from a physician assistant program approved by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).

• California Physician Assistant (PA) license.

• Current PA Certification from NCCPA.

• Current ART certification, or BLS/CPR and ACLS certifications at time of hire with commitment to get ART within six (6) months of hire date.

• One (1+) or more years of outpatient Oncology experience as a licensed Physician Assistant.

• Proven ability to perform initial history, and physical examination, identify major medical problems, and formulate appropriate plans of action.

• Demonstrated knowledge of common diagnostic tests, exams, and procedures used in a clinic setting.

• Must understand purpose, required supplies and/or equipment, how to perform procedure accurately, infection control, and accurate documentation of medical chart.

• Strong ability to manage own patient load.

• Must be able to function in a fast-paced environment, have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and consistently demonstrate empathy and kindness to all staff and patients.

• Experience working collaboratively and effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

• Relevant oncology certification.

• Oncology survivorship experience.

• Head & Neck Oncology experience.

• Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs.
• Must be able to obtain UCSD Medical Staff privileges and maintain during employment. Due to advanced practice credentialing eligibility, clinical advanced practice experience must be within the last two years.
• Employment is subject to a criminal background check and pre-employment physical.