Job Overview
Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is proud to be the Cheshire and South Mersey elective hub for elective recovery. Our development on the Clatterbridge Hospital site has commissioned 4 operating theatres, a 35‑bedded phased recovery unit and associated inpatient beds. Clatterbridge Hospital currently has 6 operating theatres and a minor procedure room within the Perioperative Medicine Directorate. Operating theatres are managed with the Directorate of Perioperative Medicine, which has over 440 staff and supports services including Pre‑operative Assessment, Surgical Elective Admissions Lounge (SEAL) at the Arrowe Park Hospital site, acute & chronic pain services, operating theatres, 3‑phase recovery, Clatterbridge Hospital Day Ward, Department of Anaesthesia, Sterile Services Department and Surgical Inpatient Ward (M2) CGH Site.
Role of the Surgical First Assistant
The surgical first assistant will provide skilled surgical assistance throughout the perioperative journey of our patients. Working as part of the perioperative multidisciplinary team, the assistant will deliver optimal care across a number of specialisms to the highest standards of care. The role covers orthopaedics, general surgery, urology, gynaecology, breast and plastic surgery, with cross‑site expectations at APH and CGH. The assistant will also perform scrub duties as required.
Qualifications & Experience
We welcome applications from existing perioperative practitioners (Nurse, ODP or other allied health roles) who are looking to develop into surgical first assistants. Trainees who meet the required criteria and experience will also be considered.
Training and Education
The successful candidate will receive a preceptorship pack and supervised practice, supported by a local training programme and an perioperative education team. Education and training opportunities (role‑specific) include:
* Advanced Life Support
* Paediatric Life Support
* Post‑registration Degree pathways in Healthcare Leadership and Management, Perioperative Care of the Patient, Care Certification, Quality Assessment Framework in Clinical Support activities, Modern Apprentices (registered and unregistered), Masters Level education (course dependent), Mentorship, and Preceptorship
Location and Facilities
Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is situated on the Wirral peninsula, offering a stunning coastline, beautiful countryside and convenient transport links to Liverpool, Chester, Manchester and North Wales. The Trust employs over 6,000 staff and serves a population of approximately 400,000 people across the Wirral and wider North West footprint.
Interview and Application Information
Interviews will be held on 6 October 2025. This advert closes on Wednesday 22 October 2025.
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