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Communications Operative

University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust (279)

Haywards Heath and Brighton, RH16 4EXView on map(opens Google Maps in a new tab)

Salary

£25,760 to £27,476

Contract

Fixed-Term

Hours

Not specified

Closing date

29 October 2026

10 days left

Job description

Band 3 - plus extra unsocial hour's enhancements pay for working night shifts. The telephony staff are normally the initial contact between members of...

Switchboard Operators are an integral part of a professional team delivering a vital 24-hour communications and support service. Working within a dynamic and fast-paced environment, Operators use a computerised communications system to respond to calls, monitor medical and service alarms, provide helpdesk support, and activate emergency procedures when required. The role requires excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to prioritise effectively while managing multiple tasks. Operators play a key role in ensuring that emergency response, alarm monitoring, and support services are delivered efficiently and to a high standard at all times. Working both independently and as part of a team, Operators are trusted to use their initiative and judgement when responding to incidents, resolving issues, and supporting service users. The ability to remain calm, focused and professional in changing situations is essential. While the team strives to meet agreed response times, Operators are adaptable and resilient, responding effectively to fluctuations in demand and unexpected situations to maintain continuity of service across the 24-hour operation.

Please note: This role does not meet the minimum criteria for visa sponsorship under the current UK immigration rules, which set specific salary and skill thresholds. As such, we are unable to provide sponsorship for this post. Applicants will therefore need to already have the right to work in the UK to be considered. We include this information at the outset to provide clarity and avoid unnecessary inconvenience for applicants.

If you do not meet the sponsorship requirements, and you are applying using a Graduate visa as your right to work, you must have a minimum of 18 months remaining on your visa at time of application.

Operators are often the first point of contact for patients, members of the public and hospital staff, playing a vital role in delivering an excellent customer experience. The post holder will actively promote a positive and professional image of the Trust, providing a courteous, responsive and high-quality service to all callers and service users. The successful candidate will communicate confidently and effectively with patients, members of the public, GPs, Trust staff, departments, visitors and suppliers, ensuring enquiries are handled efficiently and professionally at all times. Working as part of a dedicated team, Operators support the delivery of a 24-hour communication service. Responsibilities include operating computerised communication systems, responding to calls, monitoring medical and service alarms, providing helpdesk support and activating emergency procedures when required. The role is varied and fast-paced, requiring the ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining accuracy and professionalism. Operators are trusted to work independently and use their initiative when responding to incidents, resolving issues and making timely decisions. The ability to remain calm, adaptable and focused in a busy environment is essential to ensuring service standards and response times are maintained. The role requires confidence in using a range of computerised systems and communication technologies. Operators are responsible for the effective operation of departmental communication systems and will undertake a variety of Switchboard and Telecoms administrative duties.

Candidate Information Pack

https: //www.uhsussex.nhs.uk/resources/candidate-information-pack/

At UHSussex, diversity is our strength, and we want you to feel included to help us always deliver Excellent Care Everywhere, as shown in our Outstanding for Caring CQC rating. Your uniqueness and experiences will be part of our creative and innovative community where everyone is encouraged to succeed. We have a range of staff networks to help break down barriers, and can offer abuddy to help new members settle in. We're proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 3) and a Veteran Aware Trust.Candidate Pack

Switchboard / Telephone experience

Essential

  • Switchboard / Telephone experience
  • Customer service experience
  • Flexible and commitment to work 24/7/365 shifts
  • Agree/Confirm requirements of the JD
  • NVQ level 3 Customer care or equivalent plus previous experience
  • GCSE grade C or above - English

Desirable

  • GCSE grade C or above - English or equivalent work experience that demonstrates this level
  • Knowledge of Outlook/email/ IT skills
  • Knowledge of medical terminology

OFlexible and commitment to work 24/7/365 shifts

Essential: - oSwitchboard / Telephone experience

OFlexible and commitment to work 24/7/365 shifts

Essential: - Agree work flexible shifts

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Essential

  • Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role).
  • Evidence of having undertaken own development to improve understanding of equalities issues

How to apply

Applications are handled entirely by the employer on the original advert. We do not collect CVs, supporting statements or application data.

Provenance

Source

NHS Jobs

First seen

15 October 2026

Last checked

19 October 2026

Salary, closing date and description are taken from the employer's advert. The original advert always takes precedence.

About the employer

UHS
University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust (279)

NHS organisation

This listing was structured from NHS Jobs. Vacancy details and the application process remain the responsibility of the original source.

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