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. Decontamination science (sterile services and flexible endoscopy)

    Decontamination technicians (also known as sterile services technicians or endoscopy technicians) ensure medical devices are properly cleaned, disinfected, and sterilized between clinical procedures to prevent healthcare-acquired infections

    For an apprenticeship in decontamination science (with training on the job), A-C grade GCSEs including English, Maths and Science at Grade C or above or an equivalent level 2 vocational qualification. To enter a technician role, you’ll need the IDSc Technical Certificate or NVQ3 Decontamination) or equivalent level of knowledge and experience through decontamination training.
    Staff in the NHS will usually work a standard 37.5 hours per week. They may work a shift pattern. Staff working as technicians in decontamination sciences/sterile services will be on a salary on AfC band 2 or 3, depending on their role. Managers will be on higher levels. Terms and conditions of service can vary for employers outside the NHS.
    Effective team member, ability to work accurately under pressure, have an eye for detail, knowledge of keyboard and computing skills, able to follow clear instructions and work to standard procedures, flexibility, professional manner and good communication skills.
    With further training and/or experience, you may be able to develop your career further and apply for vacancies as a senior endoscopy decontamination technician, decontamination technician supervisor or manager in a decontamination sciences department. Opportunities also exist in research and in teaching.
  2. Audio visual technician

    Audio visual (AV) technicians set up equipment for training events and meetings. They may engineer sound, presentation images and lighting.

    There are no set entry requirements. Employers expect audiovisual technicians to have experience, which many AV technicians get through voluntary work. This could be through helping with events at school or college or through a youth group or at local community events. By spending time with experienced AV technicians you can pick up the skills and experience you need. It may be possible to gain this sort of experience through a relevant apprenticeship. Although employers do not always ask for qualifications, a relevant qualification may help eg a degree in sound, light and live event technology or audio and visual media, an HND in audio visual technology, a BTEC in creative media. When you join the NHS as an audiovisual technician you will get the training you need including an introduction to the department and the equipment.
    AV technicians working in the NHS are paid on the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay system. Salaries will vary, depending on the role - please check individual job vacancies for details. As a simulation centre technician, for example, you could be on AfC band 4. With further training and experience, you could apply for more senior positions. Audiovisual technicians in the NHS work standard hours of around 37.5 a week. They may work shifts including early starts and evenings. Terms and conditions will usually be different for AV technicians working outside of the NHS.
    AV technicians need to be keen to present events to a high standard, physically fit for lifting, climbing ladders, etc, interested in keeping up to date with technology, able to pay attention to detail and to be flexible and adaptable. They also need good technical skills, problem-solving skills, customer service skills, organisational skills and communication skills.
    With experience, AV technicians can become senior technicians, supervising a team of technicians. AV technicians progress by working on larger events and by keeping up to date with new technology and software.
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