Switchboard Operator
At a glance
- Band
- Band 3
- Contract
- Permanent
- Pattern
- Full-time
- Posted
- 07/09/2026
- Closes
- 20/09/2026
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Role summary
As a Switchboard Operator, you will be the first point of contact for Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, handling over 60,000 calls per month. This vital role involves managing emergency responses, including cardiac arrests and major incidents, and operating complex telecommunication systems. You will provide a courteous, efficient, and professional service to clinicians, senior managers, emergency services, and the public. The position requires working flexibly across various shifts, including early, late, night, and weekend cover, and contributes directly to patient care and emergency response.
Essential criteria
- 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)
Desirable criteria
- Please see the attached JD.
- 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
- Additional Criteria
- 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
- 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)
- Please see the attached JD.
- 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
- Additional Criteria
- 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
Useful to know
Agenda for Change 2024/25 pays Band 3 at £24,625 – £25,674 a year, across England.
This advert: £24,947 – £27,476 — outside the standard scale; check for HCAS/London weighting.
Posted 1d ago · Closes in 13d
Plenty of time to prepare a strong application.
Full advert · preview
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
Switchboard Operator
The closing date is 20 September 2026
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.
Main duties of the job
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
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