Compare roles in health

Not sure where to start with the hundreds of NHS careers? Use our compare roles section to get bite-size information on the entry requirements and training, pay and conditions, prospects and skills needed of up to three roles. If there is something that you think you could do, then get more in-depth information on the role.

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  1. Plumber

    Heating systems and water supply is crucial for a successful NHS. Plumbers in the NHS make sure these are safe and in good working order.

    There are no set entry requirements but employers expect plumbers to have a qualification and experience in plumbing and/or heating and ventilation. To train as a plumber, you usually need at least three GCSEs (or equivalent) including maths, English and science. Employers may ask for some experience in construction or other practical work. An apprenticeship in an estates support role can provide this. Employers may ask for a driving licence. When you start as a trainee plumber, your training will include health and safety, how to use the tools and equipment and all aspects of plumbing, drainage and heating work. You'll be expected to study for vocational qualifications and may be encouraged to become multi-skilled by training in, for example, painting and decorating or tiling.
    Estates staff working in the NHS are paid on the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay system. As an estates support worker, you would typically start on AfC band 2. As a qualified plumber, you will typically start on AfC band 3. With further training and experience, you could apply for more senior positions at bands 4 and above. Plumbers in the NHS work standard hours of around 37.5 a week. The job may involve shifts including early starts, evenings and weekends. Plumbers may be part of an on-call rota for emergency cover. Terms and conditions will usually be different for plumbers working outside of the NHS.
    Plumbers need to be interested in practical work and repairs, able to follow technical instructions, accurate and methodical, health and safety aware, willing to work at heights where necessary and able to use tools. They also need good manual (hand) skills, organisational skills and time management skills.
    Once fully qualified and with experience, a plumber can become a team leader, supervising the work of others. With further experience you could progress to manager, responsible for maintenance and repair services in a hospital, area or trust. Plumbers may be able to move into other estates services roles They can apply to train as engineers. There are opportunities outside the NHS. Some plumbers become self-employed by setting up a business, either on their own or with one or more colleagues.
  2. Education and training roles

    Educators and trainers in health informatics are responsible for making sure that staff are able to use the latest technology so that the benefits it offers for patient care are realised.

    Entry requirements into education and training roles in health informatics will depend on the role and level you are at in the Health Informatics Career Framework. It is possible to start in an entry level post without formal qualifications but GCSEs or equivalent qualifications are an advantage. Apprenticeships in health informatics are also available. Education and training qualifications at QCF level three or above may also be needed for some roles. More senior education and training posts are likely to need a degree or equivalent experience or even a master's qualification. You should always check the person specification for specific posts to fully understand the requirements. The NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme also has a health informatics strand for graduates with relevant degrees.
    Most education and training jobs in the NHS are covered by Agenda for Change (AfC) pay scales. This pay system covers all staff except doctors, dentists and the most senior managers.You'll usually work standard hours of 37.5 per week. Terms and conditions for non-NHS employers and contractors will vary.
    Good communication and team working skills are needed for all roles within education and training roles. Many roles will also require good presentation, IT and organisational skills. You’ll also need to have strong influencing skills, show political awareness and sensitivity as health is a complex system. You’ll need to be enthusiastic, be able to work under pressure and on your own initiative.
    There are opportunities to progress your career into senior management roles. Most NHS organisations will now have chief information officers who lead the delivery of knowledge management systems locally.Courses in health informatics are also offered by some universities at undergraduate and masters level. The NHS has also developed training and courses to support you through your career. Many of these will count towards your continued professional development and may lead to a formal professional qualification.
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