As a Major Orthopaedic Scrub Operating Department Practitioner (ODP), you are the technical backbone of complex bone and joint surgeries. Your role combines advanced clinical skills, split-second problem-solving, and a deep understanding of human anatomy. From joint replacements to complex spinal reconstructions, your focus is entirely on maintaining a sterile, efficient, and safe surgical environment.
Before the patient enters the theatre, your work begins. You meticulously prepare the surgical field. You check, count, and arrange highly specialized orthopaedic kits, which often contain hundreds of delicate components, power tools, and implants. Because you possess expert knowledge of the surgical steps, you anticipate the surgeon's needs before they even ask. You pass instruments swiftly and accurately, ensuring the procedure flows without interruption.
Sterility is your highest priority. You strictly enforce infection control boundaries because bone infections can be catastrophic for patients. You watch the surgical field like a hawk, ready to intercept any potential contamination. Your vigilant eye keeps the patient safe while they are at their most vulnerable.
Communication and teamwork are your core strengths. You act as the vital link between the sterile field and the rest of the theatre team. When unexpected complications arise, you remain calm under pressure, adjusting your strategy instantly. At the end of the procedure, you lead the final counts of all swabs, needles, and instruments, ensuring nothing is left behind.
Choosing this career means you directly rebuild the quality of life for your patients. Your technical expertise allows individuals to walk without pain, recover from severe trauma, and regain their independence. It is a demanding, high-stakes role, but the reward of seeing a patient heal makes your dedication worthwhile.
Essential
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).
Desirable
We are committed to your wellbeing, professional growth, and long-term career success. Joining our team means becoming part of a values-led organisation that invests in you — not just as an employee, but as a professional and an individual.
With us, you will benefit from:
Our people choose to build their careers here because they feel supported, appreciated, and proud to be part of something that makes a genuine difference.
All applicants will be taken through onboarding checks including:
