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Operating Theatre Technician

ANZSCO 311214

Operating Theatre Technicians prepare operating rooms, assist during surgeries, and support patient transport and recovery.

  • This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
      • ACT
      • QLD
      • TAS
      • WA
      • SA
  • 10,000 people employed in Australia
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

How do I become a operating theatre technician

Get qualified to work as a operating theatre technician with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Operating Theatre Technician generally earns $1,250 per week ($65,000 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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The number of people working in this field has grown strongly in recent years. There are currently 1,100 people employed as an Operating Theatre Technician in Australia compared to 850 five years ago. Operating Theatre Technicians usually work in larger towns and cities where major healthcare facilities are located.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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A Certificate III in Health Services Assistance (Operating Theatre Technician Specialisation) is an ideal qualification if you’re interested in a career as an Operating Theatre Technician. You’ll learn to work with surgical teams and anaesthetists and develop the skills to clean and maintain operating theatres. A Certificate IV in Operating Theatre Technical Support would also be a suitable qualification.

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Further reading

What does an Occupational Therapist do?

15th September 2022

What can you do with a Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Occupational Therapy)?

15th June 2021

A Beginner's Guide to Laboratory Technician Training in Australia

7th February 2025

Operating Theatre Technician careers

An Operating Theatre Technician performs various tasks in a hospital operating room. You might get the theatre ready for surgeries, including preparing and maintaining equipment. Operating Theatre Technicians might transport patients to surgery and provide technical assistance during medical procedures. You might assist with patients during recovery and transport them back to hospital wards.

Operating Theatre Technicians should be organised and have excellent attention to detail. You’ll need to be able to work to correct procedures and follow instructions closely. Operating Theatre Technicians should have good communication skills and be able to work as part of a team.