Job overview
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Assistant Theatre Practitioner or Clinical Support Worker to join our theatre team at the Sussex Surgical Centre. Working in theatres offers an unique experience and suitable for those with a passion for patient care and able to adapt to working in a fast paced theatre environment.
Main duties of the job
The newly opened Sussex Surgical Centre provides an opportunity to work across a variety of specialities including Trauma and Orthopaedics, ENT and Maxillo-Facial Surgery, General Surgery, Gynaecology and Urology. The successful applicant will be responsible for assisting with perioperative patient care under the supervision of the registered practitioners, you will have have high standards and be capable of working as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
The Assistant Theatre Practitioner undertakes a broad range of activities to support the smooth running of theatre activity on a daily basis. Main duties will include setting up of theatres, circulating role, assisting with positioning and transfer of patients, stocking up of consumables and assisting with advanced preparation for operating lists. This role also involves specimen handling, labelling and transportation, as well as cleaning of surfaces following protocols. You will be expected to maintain compliance with mandatory training , be positive and enthusiastic, embrace change and learning opportunities.
Applicant requirements
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Person specification
Other
Essential
- Flexibility in working hours and patterns
- Reliable work record
- Able to manage the physical and emotional demands of the role, including moving and handling of patients, able to concentrate to provide clinical care
- DBS Enhanced Disclosure
- Evidence that personal behaviour reflects Trust Values
- Full driving licence and access to a vehicle (for domiciliary community role)
Skills
Essential
- Ability to work under instruction from a Registered Professional without direct supervision and support
- Digital Skills, use of systems and ability to use physiological recording equipment and record findings
- Good communication skills and ability to document care episode or event on digital systems or written
- Ability to undertake vital observations and recognise any concerns that require escalation to a registered professional
- Ability to demonstrate Care and Compassion and Commitment to/for patients and carers
- A clear desire to work in a care environment and understanding of role
- Able to maintain information confidentially
Desirable
- Evidence of development of knowledge and skills relevant to role
- Training and competence in clinical tasks relevant to role ie. Cannulation, wound care, ECG
Experience
Essential
- Relevant experience of working in Health or Social Care Environment delivering personal care or health care experience gained through an education programme
Desirable
- Relevant experience working in the NHS
Qualifications
Essential
- GCSE English and Maths grade C or 4 or Functional skills for English/Maths
- Care Certificate (or willing to work towards)
Desirable
- 5 GCSE grade 4 or C and above or equivalent
- Evidence of mandatory and statutory essential training skills, for example, Basic Life Support, manual handling, infection control, fire etc
- Education and training to NVQ level 3/Work based diploma or equivalent
WhatsApp job alerts
Get instant WhatsApp alerts for Band 3 roles in Eastbourne, East Sussex
Create your Job Clerk account first. We'll collect your alert preferences during onboarding and help you turn on WhatsApp notifications for matching healthcare roles.
Applying for this NHS job
This advert is for Assistant Theatre Practitioner with East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust in Sussex Surgical Centre. It is listed as a Band 3 role. The advertised salary is per annum, pro rata. The contract type is Permanent. The application deadline is 28 Aug 2026.
Before you apply, compare the job description with the person specification and mirror the employer's essential criteria in your supporting information. Use the vacancy title, employer, location, salary, contract type, closing date and posted date (14 Aug 2026) to decide whether this role fits your current NHS job search. If the employer can close applications early, prepare the application before the stated deadline rather than waiting for the final day.
For more context, review related Job Clerk pages for the same profession, band or location where they exist, then use the application-support guides to tailor your statement and prepare for interview.