Surgical Assistant in Pediatric Care – Make a difference in the OR!

Summary
As a surgical assistant in pediatric care, you play a crucial role in the surgical process for young patients. You ensure that every procedure is performed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with the highest quality standards, with special attention to the specific needs of children and their parents. You work closely with surgeons and other specialists and remain focused on the child’s well-being at all times—before, during, and after surgery.

Working at UMC Utrecht means working at the highest level of care, research, and innovation. At the Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, you’ll treat highly complex and rare cases in pediatric care, which makes your work particularly challenging and meaningful.

In addition, you’ll actively contribute to scientific research and the development of new treatments for children. This means you’ll be working not only on today’s healthcare, but also on tomorrow’s.

Your Impact
In this role, you are the linchpin of the operating room. You combine technical expertise with empathy and child-centered care. Thanks to your preparation, foresight, and skill, the surgical team can perform at their best, and children and their parents feel as safe as possible.

What will you do?

• Assisting with, supporting, and circulating during both scheduled and emergency surgeries on children
• Preparing and monitoring instruments, equipment, and sterility, tailored to pediatric care
• Proactively anticipating issues during surgeries to ensure a smooth and safe procedure
• Supporting and reassuring children and their parents/guardians
• Performing medical procedures under the supervision of a specialist
• Contributing ideas on improvements, innovation, and the quality of care in the pediatric operating room
• Supporting students and contributing to a safe learning environment

What will you contribute?
You will work in an environment where high-quality, evidence-based pediatric care is central. Together, you will ensure a well-organized perioperative care pathway, with the goal of providing the best possible care for every child.

Why this position?

• Working in a dynamic and highly specialized pediatric care setting
• A high degree of independence and responsibility
• Opportunities for growth, training, and innovation
• Collaborating with top professionals in the healthcare sector

Who are you?
You are a dedicated and resilient professional who adapts quickly and takes responsibility. You have a warm heart for children and know how to put them and their parents at ease in a stressful situation. You think ahead, work with precision, and always prioritize safety, quality, and the child’s well-being. You are a certified surgical assistant (NZF) and also have:

• Demonstrable interest in, and preferably experience with, child care
• Empathy and the ability to communicate in a child-centered manner
• Strong collaboration skills and a genuine team spirit
• Acting quickly and decisively in emergency situations
• Resilience in emotionally challenging situations
• Independence and decisiveness when needed
• Clear and professional communication skills
• Analytical skills and a solution-oriented mindset
• The ability to share your knowledge with colleagues and students