Operations Assistants & Wardspersons Manager - Targeted
Empower teams. Support patients. Lead with purpose.
Remuneration: $127,150 – $144,444 Per Annum + Superannuation + Salary Packaging
Employment Type: Temporary Full Time – Until June 2026
Position Classification: Health Manager Level 3
Location: John Hunter Hospital
Hours Per Week: 38
Requisition ID: REQ563219
Closing Date: Tuesday, the 22nd of April
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.
About the role:
We are seeking a dynamic and people-focused leader to oversee and empower our team of Operation Assistants, Wardspersons and support staff across the John Hunter facilities. This is a pivotal role, ensuring our patients receive seamless, safe, and efficient care through exceptional patient flow, interdepartmental coordination, and support of the Operating Suite functions.
Why join us?
At John Hunter, we don’t just deliver care – we create a workplace where people feel valued, recognised, and part of something bigger. You’ll have the opportunity to make a real impact, shape culture, and grow in a role that’s as rewarding as it is challenging
- Sustainable Healthcare: Together towards zero
- Monthly Allocated Days Off
- 4 weeks annual leave
- Paid parental leave (for eligible employees) - giving you the opportunity for true Worklife 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
Your role will include:
- Leading a large, diverse team across multiple sites, fostering a positive, connected workplace culture.
- Driving operational excellence and innovation by developing business plans and long-term goals aligned with organisational priorities.
- Managing recruitment, performance, and professional development of staff to build a high-performing, engaged team.
- Coordinating with internal departments and external entities to support collaboration and seamless service delivery.
- Championing WHS, injury prevention and return-to-work strategies, including union and workers comp liaison.
- Implementing recognition and team engagement initiatives, including monthly staff celebrations and buddy programs for onboarding.
- Engaging with stakeholders, navigating negotiations, and building strong, respectful partnerships.
What we’re looking for:
You’re an experienced leader with a proven ability to motivate and manage large multidisciplinary teams. You value relationships, can confidently handle conflict resolution and performance matters, and know how to balance operational demands with a strong service-based culture. You're someone who brings people on the journey – who builds trust, listens, and meets others in the middle.
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
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.
Please contact Rebecca.Caldwell@health.nsw.gov.au for confidential support to ensure an equitable, barrier-free application process.
Additional Information:
- An eligibility list will be created for future temporary full or part time vacancies.
- To be eligible for employment in this position you must be an Australian Citizen, or permanent resident of Australia, or a New Zealand citizen with a current New Zealand Passport, or hold an appropriate visa that allows you to live and work in Australia. Employment of a temporary visa holder will only be offered in line with the conditions and expiry date of your visa.
- We are unable to accommodate visa sponsorship for applicants requiring a visa for this position.
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.
Salary Packaging: is beneficial to most Hunter New England Health employees and may increase your take-home pay! Salary package a range of personal expenses including novated motor vehicle leases, relocation expenses, and HECS/HELP debt. Find out more by contacting SalaryPackagingPLUS! via nswhealth@salarypackagingplus.com.au or 1300 40 25 23.
Hunter New England Health employees may be eligible for a range of benefits such as allocated days off (ADO) for full time employees, long service leave, paid maternity leave, and salary packaging options including meal expenses.
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