Job Requirements/Description
The closing date is 20th Sep 2026
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Job summary
Are you a calm, organised and tech-savvy individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment? Do you enjoy helping people and being at the heart of critical communications? If so, we'd love to hear from you!
As a Switchboard Operator, you'll be the first point of contact for the Trust, handling over 60,000 calls per month. You'll play a vital role in managing emergency responses including cardiac arrests, major incidents, helicopter landings and more. This is a challenging and rewarding role where no two days are the same.
You'll work with a wide range of stakeholders, from clinicians and senior managers to emergency services and the public, providing a courteous, efficient and professional service at all times.
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Main duties, tasks & skills required
Operate complex telecommunication systems including MITEL consoles and paging systems.
Respond to emergency calls and alarms with precision and urgency.
Maintain accurate records and databases including on-call rotas and emergency logs.
Provide Trust ID badges and manage swipe access systems.
Support administrative tasks and contribute to service improvements.
Work flexibly across shifts including early, late, night and weekend cover.
You'll join a supportive and fast-paced team where your role directly contributes to patient care and emergency response. You'll receive comprehensive training and have opportunities to grow and develop within the Trust, all while making a real difference every day.
Apply now to become a vital part of our communications hub and help keep Musgrove Park Hospital running smoothly, safely and efficiently.
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About us
At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer:
Flexible working options to help you balance work and life
NHS pension scheme for long-term financial security
Generous annual leave allowance to recharge and relax
A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential
Additionally, you'll gain access to our Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.
We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.
Why Somerset? Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty, and breathtaking coastlines, with vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter just a short drive away - and only two hours to London.
The region is home to excellent educational facilities, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future.
Somerset truly has it all - the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.
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Job description
Please refer to the attached Job Description and Person Specification for more information about the role.
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Person specification
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Qualifications
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Essential
Good general education (GCSE's) - including English and mathematics or equivalent
Relevant vocational qualification(equivalent to Microsoft Office MOST, ECDL or related qualification)
Vocational level 3 /BTEC) in IM&T or information systems related subject (or relevant experience in IM&T environment)
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Desirable
Please see the attached JD.
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Experience
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Essential
Knowledge of windows systems, requirement to manipulate data within excel, word, PowerPoint and other bespoke system
Switchboard/Call Centre experience.
Knowledge and experience on customer services
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Additional Criteria
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Essential
Good working knowledge and understanding of PC hardware, operating systems and Microsoft IT packages.
Demonstrable comfort with IT systems and a willingness to learn new IT skills
Previous experience of healthcare or large complex organisation
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Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
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For help with your application, contact:
Chris Payne
chris.payne@somersetft.nhs.uk
01823343389
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Pay scheme
Agenda for Change
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Band
Band 3
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Salary
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£24947.00 to £27476.00 Yearly
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Contract
Permanent
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Working pattern
Full-Time
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Reference number
184-OL-PU-5709
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Job locations
Musgrove Park Hospital
Musgrove Road
Taunton
Somerset
TA1 5DA
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