Transition to Specialty Practice, Anaesthetics and PACU

Employment Type -  Temporary Part Time

Job Category - Nursing - Registered Nurse (Div 1)

Req Id

University Hospital Geelong Operating Services is seeking applications for Transition to Specialty Practice in Anaesthetics and PACU Nursing for 2026

• Exciting opportunity for a 12-month specialist year in Main Operating Services, within the Anaesthetic and PACU nursing team
• Expand your existing knowledge to become a proficient member if the Anaesthetic nursing team
• Supported with Clinical Support, study days and access to the Operating Services Education mornings.
• Excellent multiple temporary part-time positions available 

About Barwon Health

Barwon Health is one of the largest and most comprehensive regional health services in Australia, providing care at all stages of life and circumstance. Services available through Barwon Health cover the full spectrum from primary care, community services, aged care, rehabilitation, mental health, emergency and acute care. We serve more than 500,000 people through the efforts of more than 9000 staff and volunteers across more than 20 sites. Barwon Health is committed to developing a vibrant culture of education, training and research that advances health and wellbeing for all.

About the facility

Our major sites include University Hospital Geelong in Geelong's CBD, the McKellar Centre precinct in North Geelong, Barwon Health North in Norlane, and residential aged care facilities spanning the region. Comprehensive mental health, community health and dental services are delivered through various programs across the Barwon South West Region, including Torquay and Colac.

About the service

Operating Services at University Geelong Main theatre offers a round-the-clock service with ten operating theatres. Beyond elective surgeries, the department handles semi-urgent and emergency procedures. Specialities encompass Cardiothoracic, ENT, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Oral Faciomaxillary, Plastics, Orthopaedics, Ophthalmology, Urology, Vascular and Robotic Surgery. 

About the Role

The program provides the successful applicant with structured introduction to both Anaesthetic and PACU nursing, with planned speciality rotations through the theatre suite and dedicated support. It incorporates several study days and an end of program assessment.

Anaesthetic Nurse:

The role of the anaesthetic nurse is a duel one that encompasses both the role of the perioperative nurse and the role of the assistant for the anaesthetist. Working collaboratively as a member of the anaesthetic team, the anaesthetic nurse is an integral part of the overall perioperative management of the vulnerable patient in a high acuity environment.

The role of the anaesthetic nurse is integral to the patient's safe journey from the perioperative area through to the Post Anaesthetic Care Unit (PACU).

Post Anaesthetic Care Unit (PACU) Nurse:

A PACU nurse is responsible for the care and monitoring of patients immediately after surgery.

They work in the Post-Anaesthetic Care Unit, attached directly to the theatre suite. They are responsible for detection and safe management of complications related to either the surgery, or the anaesthetic. Their core skills encompass Airway Management, Patient Assessment and Monitoring, Pain and Nausea Management, in addition to the other aspects of post-operative surgical care. Nurses collaborate closely with the Surgeons, Anaesthetists, and other healthcare team members to ensure continuity of care and facilitate a smooth handover from the operating room.

 About the culture

You will have the opportunity to be part of a highly skilled, professional and dedicated team who take pride in providing high quality services. We promote positive, respectful relationships and strong partnerships within the workplace. Grow and develop your capabilities with Barwon Health's commitment to professional development.

Barwon Health staff benefits

• Excellent working conditions with a high sense of job satisfaction
• A vibrant staff wellbeing program and access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Program
• Wide-range of professional development opportunities to enhance your career
• Attractive salary packaging benefits. Living expenses capped at $9,010 and meals and entertainment capped at $2,650

About Geelong - Derived from the local Wathaurong Aboriginal name for the region Djilang, Geelong is thought to mean 'Tongue of Land'.

• Geelong offers a range of lifestyle choices including inner city, coastal, suburban and rural homes
• Geelong is home to world class schools and education providers
• Doorstep to the Great Ocean Road, Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast
• Appreciate our vast and abundant parklands, sports and entertainment attractions, and thriving dining and shopping complexes

To learn more about the region, click here. 

Diversity and Inclusion

We believe in the power of diversity and inclusion. We celebrate the unique backgrounds, perspectives, and talents of our team members, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

Our commitment to diversity strengthens our ability to provide compassionate and equitable care to all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds, abilities and identities.

We are committed to providing positive employment opportunities and a workplace that promotes wellbeing, and we welcome and encourage applications from those who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

We actively encourage individuals with disabilities and diverse backgrounds and identities to apply for our positions. Should you require any reasonable adjustments or support during the recruitment process, we are here to assist you every step of the way.

We are committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. Click here for further information on the Victorian Government's Child Safe Standards.

We are also proud to be Totally Smoke Free.

If you need assistance with your application for this role, please email the Talent Acquisition team at with your preferred contact method and details, and we will get in touch with you. Please note we do not accept resumes via email.

Prior to commencement with Barwon Health, all new employees are required to provide a completed Barwon Health Immunity Status form and have Staff Care clearance.

This role requires you to provide evidence of a 2025 influenza vaccination.

Contact: Nursing and Midwifery Recruitment Team 

Email:

Ph:

Application closing date: 7th, October 2025

Position Description

Are you currently a Barwon Health employee? If so, please follow the links below on how to apply.

Instructions for Internal Candidates only