Job overview
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Senior Operating Department Practitioner to join our Neurosurgery specialty at the Royal Sussex County Hospital. Neuro Theatres is a busy, high‑acuity service undertaking complex cranial and spinal procedures within the state‑of‑the‑art Louisa Martindale Building.
We are seeking dynamic ODPs or Anaesthetic Nurses who are motivated, team‑focused and keen to develop specialist skills within a supportive, well‑led environment. Our modern theatre suite includes three operating theatres, integrated anaesthetic facilities, a dedicated recovery unit and a bi‑planar/angio suite.
This role forms part of a 24/7 internal rotation, with participation in the on‑call rota to maintain safe and continuous cover for Neurosurgery and Thrombectomy service.
We are proud to be the Star Awards Clinical Team of the Year 2024, recognised for excellence, collaboration and outstanding patient care.
Join us and help shape the future of Neurosurgery at UHSussex.
This role is eligible for visa sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker route however sponsorship can only be provided where applicants meet the specific requirements set by UKVI, including the relevant skill and salary thresholds (£25000), and any role-specific criteria.
Main duties of the job
1. Provide clinical leadership, support and teaching to all staff working within the Neurosurgery peri‑operative environment.
2. Offer specialist technical and clinical guidance to colleagues involved in the delivery of Neurosurgery peri‑operative care.
3. Deliver clear information, reassurance and support to patients undergoing anaesthesia and surgery.
4. Contribute to the development and delivery of safe, high‑quality specialist patient care, working in line with the Trust’s Nursing and Midwifery Strategy and all relevant policies and standards.
Neurosurgery experience is desirable for this role.
Working for our organisation
Working for our organisation
At UHSussex, diversity is our strength, and we want you to feel included to help us always deliver Excellent Care Everywhere, as shown in our Outstanding for Caring CQC rating. Your uniqueness and experiences will be part of our creative and innovative community where everyone is encouraged to succeed. We have a range of staff networks to help break down barriers, and can offer a buddy to help new members settle in. We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 3) and a Veteran Aware Trust.
Candidate Pack
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
5. In conjunction with other clinical staff, participates in the setting, monitoring & evaluation of standards of care for patients.
6. Using the specialist peri-operative care plan the post holder will assess, plan, implement & evaluate patient care within sphere of responsibility.
7. Ensure that accurate records & information systems are maintained.
8. Assist the team leader to effectively, motivate a competent workforce, facilitate & plan the delivery of high quality patient care & to provide a safe environment for the patient at all times.
9. Deputise for the Team Leader by planning & organising the clinical activity on a regular basis with responsibility for the day-to-day management for a group of staff & prioritise & plan (elective & emergency) patient care within the environment on a daily basis
People Management and Development
10. Deputise for the Team Leader by planning & organising the clinical activity on a regular basis with responsibility for the day-to-day management for a group of staff & prioritise & plan (elective & emergency) patient care within the environment on a daily basis.
11. Assist the team leader to actively lead in the development of their specialised areas within the peri-operative services.
12. Support & participate in management initiatives as appropriate.
13. Provide support to nursing & non-nursing managerial staff.
14. Ensure that self & others practice in accordance with the NMC &/or HPC Code of Professional Conduct & other appropriate NMC &/or HPC, Trust & statutory guidelines
Please see the attached Job Description for full details.
Person specification
Experience/ Qualifications
Essential criteria
15. Professional Registration NMC/HCPC
16. Anaesthetic qualification Or City and Guilds 752 or NVQ Level 3 / Diploma in Operating Department Practice
17. Minimum 2 years Anaesthetic experience
Desirable criteria
18. Neurosurgery experience
19. Demonstrates the Trust's Values and Behaviour
20. Supporting learners in the work place
21. Excellent communication and relationship building skills
22. Evidence of problem solving using own initiative
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Essential criteria
23. Evidence of having undertaken own development to improve understanding of equalities issues
24. Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role).
Important information for applicants:
A Note on AI Use in Applications
We value the individuality and authenticity that each candidate brings to the application process. While AI tools are increasingly accessible, we strongly discourage their use in completing your application. Your responses should reflect your own voice, experiences, and motivations—elements that are essential to a fair and accurate evaluation.
Applications that rely heavily on AI-generated content may misrepresent your abilities and could result in your application being rejected. We encourage you to take the time to present your genuine self, as this helps us better understand your potential and ensures a transparent selection process.
Closing Adverts Early: In the event of exceptional interest, we may close adverts earlier than specified.
Some of our adverts are capped for a limited number of applications; therefore, the advert will close once the cap has been reached. We therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible if you are interested in the position to prevent you from missing out on applying for the opportunity.
Flexible Working: If you would like to explore potential options regarding flexible working please speak with the appropriate recruiting/line manager.
DBS Checks: As part of our commitment to a safe working environment, we undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check on all new employees where the role is eligible for a criminal record check. We make offers in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975.
Skilled Worker Visa: Applications for Skilled Worker sponsorship are welcome for the roles that meet the Visa and Immigrations eligibility criteria. For further information please visit the gov.uk website searching for Skilled Worker. It is your responsibility as the applicant to ensure that you meet this criteria.
UHSussex reserves the right to close the role early if we receive a high volume of applications