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You’ll need to study for a 3-year degree in operating department practice at university. Part-time courses are available. You will usually need a minimum of five GCSEs at grades A-C (or equivalent) plus A-level (or equivalent) qualifications. These will vary depending on the university so check with the universities you are considering applying to. A degree standard apprenticeship in operating department practice has also been approved.

Most jobs in the NHS are covered by the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay scales. ODPs in the NHS will usually start at band 5 and can progress to roles at band 8 and above. You'll work standard hours of 37.5 per week. Terms and conditions will vary for any jobs outside of the NHS.

You’ll need a variety of skills to be an operating department practitioner including a caring and compassionate nature, being able to work in a highly technical area, excellent problem solving and organisational skills, very good communication skills, be able to stand for long periods and react quickly in an emergency within a confined area. If you're applying for a role either directly in or working on behalf of the NHS, you'll be asked to demonstrate the values of the NHS Constitution.

You’ll have several options to progress your career in operating department practice, including management, education, research and advanced practice. Experienced ODPs can take further training approved by the Royal College of Surgeons to work as surgical care practitioners. After a typical two-year training programme, you’ll be able to complete certain surgical procedures under the supervision of a consultant surgeon.

Although there are no set entry requirements, estate managers have a relevant qualification, often at degree level. This could be in, for example building surveying, property management or facilities management. To get onto a degree course, you need appropriate level 3 qualifications. Some estates managers join the NHS as, for example, estates technicians and become managers with experience and further qualifications. Employers may ask for a driving licence. When you become an estates manager your training will include an introduction to the department and its systems and procedures. You will be expected to keep your skills and knowledge up to date by going on short courses on particular topics such as risk analysis or contract management. You may be encouraged to take further qualifications in, for example, project management.

Estates managers working in the NHS are paid on the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay system. You will typically start on AfC band 7. With further training and experience, you could apply for more senior positions up to band 9. Estates managers in the NHS work standard hours of around 37.5 a week. The job may involve attending meetings or events in the evenings or at weekends. Terms and conditions will usually be different for estates managers working outside of the NHS.

Estates managers need to have an interest in buildings and property, work on several different projects at once, be able to meet deadlines and work with contractors and others from the construction industry. They also need good communication, negotiating, organisational, project management and business skills.

With experience, estates managers can progress to become senior managers such as area managers or directors. There may be opportunities outside the NHS.