Operating Theatre Technicians assist surgeons and anaesthetists by preparing and maintaining surgical equipment and the sterile field. NZ hospitals urgently need experienced theatre technicians.
Talk to a licensed NZ immigration adviser about your Operating Theatre Technician visa pathway.
Get Free Assessment →This is an ANZSCO Skill Level 3 occupation, qualifying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) with up to 5 years duration. After 2 years of NZ work experience you can apply for Skilled Migrant Category residence.
Operating Theatre Technicians (also called Surgical Technologists or Scrub Technicians) prepare operating theatres, maintain the sterile field during surgery, pass instruments to surgeons, and manage surgical equipment. They are a critical part of the perioperative team in NZ's public and private hospitals. **What the work involves:** Setting up and checking surgical instruments and equipment, scrubbing or circulating during surgical cases, maintaining the sterile field, processing reusable instruments, liaising with sterile services and surgical teams. **Why NZ needs you:** NZ has a significant perioperative workforce gap. Te Whatu Ora (Health NZ) and private hospital groups actively recruit internationally for theatre technicians to clear the surgical backlog.
Salaries are based on NZ market data. Regional and rural positions may offer allowances, relocation support, and retention bonuses in addition to base salary.
Source: Immigration NZ Operational Manual (WA3.16) — updated 9 March 2026
Yes. Operating Theatre Technician (ANZSCO 311214) is ANZSCO Skill Level 2, qualifying for a 5-year AEWV with no English evidence requirement.
Yes — NZ hospitals have significant perioperative workforce gaps. Te Whatu Ora (Health NZ) actively recruits internationally for theatre technicians.
Overseas qualifications are assessed by NZIOTT for equivalence. UK, Australian, South African, and Philippine-trained technicians typically qualify for provisional registration.
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