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Operating Theatre Nurse Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... to doctors and nurses as needed * Assists in preparing and moving patients and in cleaning the operating theater * Relies on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals ...

Registered Nurse (NMC) or Operating Department Practitioner (HCPC). * Experience or training in a theatre environment in at least one area (scrub, anaesthetics, or recovery). * Understanding of ...

Registered Nurse (NMC) or Operating Department Practitioner (HCPC). * Experience or training in a theatre environment in at least one area (scrub, anaesthetics, or recovery). * Understanding of ...

Completed professional training in healthcare (nurse, anaesthetist, or similar). * At least 3 years of operating theatre experience or experience as a Clinical Sales or Clinical Specialist.

... to doctors and nurses as needed * Assists in preparing and moving patients and in cleaning the operating theater * Relies on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals ...

Registered Nurse (NMC) or Operating Department Practitioner (HCPC). * Experience or training in a theatre environment in at least one area (scrub, anaesthetics, or recovery). * Understanding of ...

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Registered Nurse (NMC) or Operating Department Practitioner (HCPC). * Experience or training in a theatre environment in at least one area (scrub, anaesthetics, or recovery). * Understanding of ...

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Operating Theatre Nurse information

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$16

$45

$82

How much do operating theatre nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating theatre nurse in the United States is $45.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.82 and $48.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operating theatre nurse?

An Operating Theatre Nurse is a specialized nurse who assists surgeons and healthcare teams during surgical procedures. They prepare the operating room, ensure surgical instruments are sterile, and provide critical support before, during, and after surgery. Their responsibilities include monitoring patient vitals, handling surgical tools, and ensuring a safe and sterile environment. Additionally, they play a key role in patient care, from pre-operative assessments to post-operative recovery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operating theatre nurse?

To succeed as an Operating Theatre Nurse, you need expertise in perioperative nursing, infection control, and patient safety, supported by a nursing degree and relevant licensure (e.g., RN or equivalent). Familiarity with surgical instruments, anaesthesia machines, sterilization equipment, and theatre management systems is crucial. Excellent teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to stay calm under pressure distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient surgical procedures and high standards of patient care in critical, fast-paced environments.

What are the common challenges faced by operating theatre nurses on a daily basis?

Operating Theatre Nurses often encounter challenges such as managing complex surgical schedules, maintaining strict aseptic conditions, and quickly responding to unforeseen complications during procedures. They must adapt to the high-pressure environment of the operating room, where teamwork and clear communication with surgeons, anaesthetists, and other staff are essential. Adhering to stringent safety protocols while ensuring patient comfort can be demanding, but these challenges also foster strong clinical skills and resilience. Many nurses find the dynamic environment and opportunity to contribute directly to successful patient outcomes highly rewarding.

What do operating theatre nurses do in the operating theatre?

Operating theatre nurses, also known as perioperative nurses, prepare the operating room, assist during surgeries by passing instruments and maintaining a sterile environment, and monitor patients' vital signs. They ensure patient safety and comfort throughout the procedure and are trained in infection control and surgical protocols.
More about Operating Theatre Nurse jobs
Infographic showing various Operating Theatre Nurse job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,573 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

Nursing Unit Manager - Operating Theatre

Western NSW Local Health District

Orange, CA • On-site

$143K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Employment Type: Permanent Full Time 
Position Classification: Nurse Unit Manager level 1
Remuneration: $143,997.20 pa (+ superannuation + salary packaging options)
Location: Orange, NSW - Find out more
Hours Per Week: 38 
Applications Close: 7 Sept 2026 - 11:59pm

Nursing Unit Manager - Operating Theatre 
Orange Health Service 

About the role
Ready to take the next step in your perioperative nursing career?

Join Orange Health Service, the major referral centre for Western NSW, and lead a high-performing perioperative team delivering patient-centred care across a broad range of surgical specialties.

As NUM1, you will oversee daily theatre operations, staff leadership, rostering, resource management, quality improvement and professional development. You will also become part of Orange Hospital's supportive network of Nurse Unit Managers, offering strong mentorship and leadership development opportunities.

Why Orange?

  • Lead a growing and innovative perioperative service
  • Work alongside experienced leaders and a dedicated nursing team
  • Opportunities in education, quality improvement and research
  • Strong professional development and leadership support
  • Enjoy the lifestyle benefits of a vibrant regional city with flexible rostering and short commutes

We're looking for an experienced perioperative nurse with strong leadership, communication and team-building skills who is passionate about developing others and strengthening rural healthcare.

Shape the future of perioperative services at Orange and build a career you'll be proud of.
Helping you move to Western NSW 
The Welcome Experience is a free NSW Government service supporting workers (and their families) who have accepted a job with Western NSW LHD in most locations. The service helps with housing, schooling, partner work and community connections. Find out more at https://www.nsw.gov.au/regional-and-primary-industries/makethemove/welcome-experience
To find out more about the role click to view the Position Description
A career with Western NSW means you can challenge yourself, make an impact and shape the future of rural health. To explore the benefits of a career in our Local Health District, visit the WNSWLHD website

To apply for this role:

         Click 'Apply'

         Create a profile in the Recruitment & Onboarding (ROB) System or sign in using your existing login

         Upload your current resume

         Answer the selection criteria


Role-related enquiries: Please contact Vickie Rapley on 6369 3243 or at Vickie.Raplye@health.nsw.gov.au for more information.
Additional information for applicants:

        All suitably qualified Aboriginal people are encouraged to apply for this position. This is a targeted position under GSE Rule 26. Where possible, affirmative action will be applied to support employment of eligible persons.

        This recruitment may be used to create an Eligibility List for similar roles in the future.

        Western NSW LHD can provide reasonable adjustments in the workplace. Applicants who provide information on an injury, health condition, or disability in their pre-employment forms will receive a functional assessment from our Risk Management Unit (RMU). This review will consider the applicant's needs and what reasonable adjustments and workplace supports are available to support their employment journey. 

        Western NSW LHD is committed to the safety and wellbeing of every child in our care. All staff in WNSWLHD are required to provide a safe and supportive environment for children, while working to protect them from harm and abuse. For more information on the Child Safety Standards, visit: NSW Government - Office of Children's Guardian

        Western NSW is committed to creating a safe and accessible workplace that promotes diversity, inclusion and belonging. As a vibrant and diverse region, rich in community and culture, we welcome applications from all people to build a respectful workplace dedicated to delivering the best health outcomes for our community.

        To find out more about the remuneration and conditions, visit NSW Public Health System Awards

For more information, visit a Guide to Employment with WNSWLHD