%20PNG.png)
Finding the right Physician Assistant (PA) job can be both exciting and overwhelming. As we know from NCCPA data, most PAs eventually leave their specialty at some point in their practice (NCCPA 2023). And we also know that flexibility may be driven both by burnout and opportunity (FindPAJobs.com 2025). As the healthcare industry grows, so does the demand for PAs, but finding the right job remains as challenging as ever. In this blog post, we will explore the means by which you can find the physician assistant job that's right for you and share actionable tips to enhance your application process.
Understanding Physician Assistant Jobs
Physician assistants are essential members of healthcare teams, often performing duties that range from examining patients to interpreting diagnostic tests to prescribing medications and plans of care. Some PAs are almost completely autonomous in their practice, even working alone in their dedicated practice location. However, other PAs work on large advanced practice provider (APP) teams that interface regularly with other MDs, DOs, RNs, LCSWs, and more. Most PAs work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices, and many specialize in medical and surgical subspecialties. Surgical subspecialties actually outrank primary care for physician assistant employment (NCCPA 2023). The most common surgical PA subspecialty is orthopedic surgery, and the most common medical specialty is cardiology (NCCPA 2023).
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for physician assistants is very positive, expecting a growth of 31% from 2020 to 2030—much faster than the average for all occupations. This is a testament to the increasing reliance on PAs to address the growing demand for healthcare services, as well as the flexibility of PAs to fill in myriad types of healthcare spaces.
Where to Look for Physician Assistant Jobs
When searching for physician assistant opportunities, it's important to know where to look. Here are several effective methods:
Job Boards: Websites like Find PA Jobs are tailored specifically for physician assistant jobs. Each page of our site offers hyperlinks directly to job boards from top PA employers, as well as data for PAs on licensing, certification, networking, career support, CME opportunities, and fellowships by state, specialty, patient population, and clinical or non-clinical role. When searching job boards, use filters to narrow down jobs by location, specialty, or salary.
Networking: Connecting with fellow PAs and healthcare professionals can provide invaluable insights. Attend conferences, join online forums, or reach out through LinkedIn. You might discover job openings that are not posted publicly and/ or find a community that will support you in your career growth.
Direct Applications: The PA Jobs website provides direct access to the career pages of health system employers. Many organizations post openings directly on their own websites before listing them on job boards, which is why direct visualization of a health system's job board has advantages. Some health systems, though, provide contact information for recruitment of advanced practice providers (APPs) and physicians. Reaching out directly with your CV can help promote your position to interview.
Recruitment Agencies: Some agencies outside the health system employers exist to specialize in healthcare recruitment. They can help match you with positions that fit your skills and preferences. Many can be found on LinkedIn or through general searching.
Is it Hard to Get Hired as a PA?
The job market for physician assistants can be competitive, but opportunities do exist, especially for those with strong skills and experience. Experience does not always have to look like several years of PA practice, either. Leverage your pre-PA experience, your clinical rotation experience, and your leadership experience to promote your skill sets that align with your desired role. Employers often look for PAs who not only have the necessary qualifications but also demonstrate strong communication, teamwork, and patient-care skills. While knowledge of clinical medicine is important, a clear voice, evidence-based practice, humility, respect for your colleagues, and an eager and positive attitude can drastically improve your ability to onboard and orient to a new team.
While securing a position may require patience and perseverance, focusing on your unique strengths and continuing education can set you apart from other candidates. Consider seeking additional certifications or training to enhance your skill set, or try working with other PAs in your desired practice area to get a sense of what that career demands and values. Especially when transitioning to non-clinical roles, breaking in to the environment first with smaller roles or adjunct support can help leverage a full-time position later.
Interesting in talking this through? We can meet to discuss a personalized approach to career growth.
Tips to Enhance Your Application
Once you've identified where you'd like to apply, it's time to sharpen your application materials. Here are some practical tips for improving your CV and cover letter:
Make Your CV Comprehensive and Specific: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Include quantitative metrics when possible, such as the relative number of patients seen or procedures performed. Especially if you're a new graduate, make sure to speak to how your pre-PA or clinical year PA experience fostered your growth and honed your skills to be applicable to your intended practice. Need more guidance? We offer CV (and cover letter) review!
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to explain why you're interested in the position and how your background makes you a strong candidate. Personalize it for each employer rather than using a generic template. And don't spend too much time on why the job is great; rather, spend most of your time detailing why the job is great for you and how your specific skill sets can allow you to be successful there.
Get Recommendations: References from previous employers or instructors can significantly boost your application. Make sure your recommenders are aware of the positions you are applying for so they can tailor their endorsements. And make sure your references speak highly of you and know you well! You don't want to ask someone who's seen you only a handful of times to provide a recommendation; most employers ask how long the reference has known the candidate.
Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your experiences, problem-solving abilities, and how you handle stressful situations. Research common interview questions for PAs and practice your responses. Make sure you're prepared to interview the employer as well! This is about making sure you're going to have a good fit. You don't want a job that can't meet your needs (even if it's the first job offer you've ever gotten! it's ok to say no).
Final Thoughts on Finding Your Next PA Opportunity
Finding the right physician assistant job may take time, but with the right strategies, it is possible to find your dream position. Utilize job boards - like the PA Jobs site!, expand your network, and reach out where you can for support. Enhance your application materials and prepare thoroughly for interviews. And don't forget to keep improving your skills to grow your practice and open more doors!
Consider searching for “pa jobs near me” to discover local opportunities that may align with your career goals. With determination and the right approach, you can secure your next position as a PA!