Operations Assistant - Targeted
Join the team behind the scenes – support surgical excellence at John Hunter Hospital.
Remuneration: $31.29 - $32.10 Per Hour + Super + Salary Packaging
Location: John Hunter Hospital
Employment Type: Various - Full-time, part-time and casual
Position Classification: Ops Assist - Others
Hours Per Week: up to 38
Requisition ID: REQ571051
Applications Close: Monday, 26th May 2025
We recognise and respect the continuing connection to land, water and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and its interconnectedness to health and wellbeing. We pay our respects to the Elders who hold and share the cultural knowledge, heritage, beliefs, and the relationship with the land. We acknowledge the many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities within our District, the staff who work with us and the Aboriginal services and organisations who partner with us to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across our footprint. We celebrate the strength, diversity, resilience, and cultural beliefs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Where you'll be working:
John Hunter Hospital is a leading tertiary referral and teaching hospital located in Newcastle, New South Wales. It offers a dynamic, supportive environment for medical professionals seeking growth and innovation. With state-of-the-art facilities, strong academic partnerships, and a commitment to excellence in patient care, John Hunter provides an ideal setting for advancing your career in a collaborative and forward-thinking team. You'll be working in the Perioperative Unit, supporting a multidisciplinary team committed to providing high-quality surgical care. This is a great opportunity to be part of a team that values safety, efficiency, and patient dignity in every procedure.
About the role:
This is a vital support role within the Operating Theatre Team, responsible for delivering non-clinical services that directly contribute to patient safety and comfort.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Preparing, assembling, and checking equipment for surgical procedures
- Reporting faulty equipment and assisting with inventory and supply maintenance
- Performing cleaning tasks between procedures and at the end of surgical lists, in line with ACORN standards
- Supporting infection control processes and proper waste/linen disposal
- Assisting with patient transfers and positioning using safe manual handling techniques
- Maintaining patient dignity during preparation and procedures
- Transporting specimens safely and following standard precautions
- Providing general support to the Perioperative Unit and assisting staff as required
You will be part of a team that values accuracy, responsiveness, and teamwork, all while learning on the job and developing valuable skills in a surgical setting.
About you:
You are a reliable, detail-focused individual with a genuine interest in contributing to patient care from behind the scenes. You're willing to learn, take direction, and support clinical staff in a fast-paced environment. You have:
- A strong work ethic and high attention to detail
- Good time management and task prioritisation skills
- Availability to work across a 7-day rotating roster, including at short notice when required
- A respectful, team-oriented attitude and a commitment to providing a premium service
Previous experience in a hospital or perioperative setting is helpful but not essential – full training and mentorship are provided.
Requirements:
- Capacity and willingness to work on a 7-day rotating roster
- Ability to work safely and maintain infection control standards
- Good physical fitness for manual handling and equipment tasks
- Commitment to on-the-job training and following workplace protocols
- Willingness to work flexibly across various support duties within the facility
What we can offer you:
At Hunter New England Health, enjoy a career where you're challenged by interesting work and surrounded by spectacular locations. Join the team enriching health in millions of ways every day:
- 4 weeks annual leave (pro-rata for part-time employees)
- Paid parental leave (for eligible employees) – giving you the opportunity for true work-life balance
- Salary packaging options – up to $11,600 plus novated leasing
- Fitness Passport for health and well-being – discounted gym options for you and your family
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for staff and family members
- Opportunity to work and collaborate with a range of non-clinical and clinical professionals
Need more information?
1) Click here for the Position Description
2) Find out more about applying for this position
For role related queries or questions contact Lisa Smolaga on lisa.smolaga@health.nsw.gov.au
Additional Information:
Casual opportunities may be available for recommended applicants
Whilst this position is open to all individuals, it is targeted to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people under section 21 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply and consideration will be given to suitable Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants to promote equal or improved access. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants must demonstrate Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander status in addition to addressing the selection criterion.
To be eligible for permanent employment in this position you must be an Australian Citizen, or a permanent resident of Australia, or a New Zealand citizen with a current New Zealand Passport. Employment of a temporary visa holder may only occur if no suitable local candidate is identified for the position; in this instance, you may only be offered employment in line with the conditions and expiry date of your visa
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Hunter New England Health is dedicated to fostering a child-safe environment that respects and upholds the rights of children and young people, aligned with NSW Health’s commitment to implementing the the Child Safe Standards. We aim to ensure that children and young people feel safe, supported, and included in their care. All current and prospective staff are expected to prioritise the safety, welfare, and well-being of children and young people, actively working to protect them from harm and abuse.
This is a Category B position. Recommended applicants will be reviewed for compliance with NSW Health policy directive PD2024_015: Occupational Assessment, Screening and Vaccination against Specified Infectious Diseases for Category B positions prior to offer. All new employees must agree to comply with the requirements outlined in the policy.
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At Hunter New England Local Health District, we are an inclusive employer dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. Our commitment to a workforce that reflects the community we care for is essential for delivering the highest quality healthcare to our community. We encourage people with diverse lived experiences to apply.
