Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The Surgical First Assistant (SFA) will play a pivotal role within the General Surgery team, providing expert support to the operating surgeon and ensuring safe, high-quality perioperative care. The post-holder will lead and coordinate theatre activities, act as a clinical resource, and foster a culture of teamwork, professional development, and patient safety. This role requires adherence to professional codes of conduct, Trust policies, and national guidance, while promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion within the workplace.

Main Responsibilities:

Clinical Practice:

• Provide continuous, competent, and dedicated surgical assistance to the operating surgeon throughout procedures, without performing independent surgical interventions.

• Undertake non-interventional clinical tasks in surgical assistance competently and safely under the supervision of the operating surgeon, including suturing, incision support, and supervised diathermy use.

• Contribute to pre- and post-operative patient care, including wound assessment, initial treatment, patient positioning, and preparation for surgery, ensuring patient safety and high standards of care.

• Actively participate in peri-operative safety checks and assist in maintaining the smooth running of theatre lists.

Leadership and Teamwork:

• Act as first or second assistant under the consultant’s direction and lead or coordinate theatre staff as required, ensuring effective team organisation and theatre utilisation.

• Foster effective communication and collaboration across the peri-operative, theatre, and surgical teams.

• Serve as a clinical resource and role model, supporting and mentoring junior staff and students, promoting a culture of learning and professional development.

• Deputise for the Team Manager/Team Leader as required, maintaining continuity and operational efficiency.

Education and Development:

• Support the development and maintenance of a high-quality clinical learning environment for staff and students.

• Maintain professional skills and knowledge in line with NMC/HCPC standards and develop a portfolio of evidence to support RCS Accreditation.

• Engage in continuing professional development and reflective practice to maintain expertise within the specialist field.

Governance, Policy, and Compliance:

• Adhere to the NMC/HCPC Code of Professional Conduct and operate within the Trust’s policies and guidelines at all times.

• Ensure accurate, timely, and confidential documentation of clinical activity, complying with statutory and hospital requirements.

• Promote and implement the Trust’s Equality and Diversity Policy, actively supporting race equality and equality of opportunity for all staff and patients.

• Remain aware of wider Trust objectives, regional, and national policies and understand their impact on local service delivery.

Person Specification:
The ideal candidate will demonstrate advanced clinical knowledge, leadership skills, and professional integrity. They will be an effective communicator, able to work collaboratively in a high-pressure environment, and committed to delivering safe, high-quality patient care while supporting the development of colleagues and the wider surgical team.

 If successful this vacancy will require an enhanced DBS check at a cost of £54.90. This cost will be deducted from your first Trust salary

In addition to this it will be a condition of your employment that you will join the DBS update service and pay the annual subscription fee of £16.