Clinical Vascular Scientist, Band 7

Job overview

An exciting opportunity has become available for a Clinical Vascular Scientist (or a Sonographer experienced in Vascular Ultrasound) to join a friendly team of 12 in the Vascular Laboratories at Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

STP trainees who are in their third year of training are also invited to apply.

We have two permanent, full-time (1.0 WTE) 37.5 hours per week positions. The department operates Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, though flexible working hours can be considered. You will be expected to work across both sites at Cheltenham General and Gloucester Royal Hospitals, with a regular free shuttle bus service available between the sites.

The successful candidate must have experience in vascular ultrasound and will be required to perform and report on a wide range of vascular ultrasound examinations.

The date for the interview will be arranged separately.

Candidates who have applied in the past should not reapply.

Main duties of the job

• Perform and report on vascular ultrasound scans.
• Manage the daily patient workload.
• Participate in research, audits, and teaching activities.
• Supervise trainee vascular scientists.
• Assist with administrative duties and the operational management of the department.

The department offers a specialised diagnostic vascular ultrasound imaging service for the Gloucestershire and Swindon vascular network. The primary modalities include extracranial carotid and vertebral arteries assessments, peripheral upper and lower limb arterial and venous examinations, bypass graft and post-EVAR surveillance, vein stent surveillance, dialysis fistula assessments and  treadmill testing. Ideal candidates are statutory registered Clinical Scientists, SVT accredited Vascular Scientists (AVS), or individuals with a relevant postgraduate qualification in vascular ultrasound. You must be able to perform and independently report on the required examinations. STP trainees in their final year may also be considered.

Please note: This role is subject to the successful completion of your Scientist Training Programme of study and final examination. Any work commenced prior to this will be paid as Band 7 Annex 21 (75% of the maximum of Band 7) on a 6-month fixed term contract pending successful completion of training, and will revert to the full substantive Band 7 post if achieved within that time.

A face-to-face interview is required, as you may be asked to participate in a practical assessment.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Key responsibilities:

The post-holder will be responsible for delivering safe, effective, and timely diagnostic vascular ultrasound services within the Gloucestershire and Swindon Vascular Network. This role requires the use of complex imaging and measurement equipment for direct patient assessment. The post-holder will operate with a high degree of autonomy, managing daily patient workloads and reporting investigation results to referring clinicians as well as advising patients on the appropriate course of action. Furthermore, the post-holder is expected to provide scientific and clinical support in the field of vascular ultrasound. They will also participate in the department's research and development activities and contribute to the teaching and training of staff and students.

Please refer to the attached job description for complete details.

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

AVS or equivalent Vascular Ultrasound qualification.

Desirable

MSc in ultrasound related subject.

State registered Clinical Scientist.

Experience

Essential

Competent in basic vascular ultrasound examinations: extracranial carotid arteries, upper and lower limb arterial and venous assessments, aorto-iliac examinations including post-EVAR.

Substantial experience in vascular ultrasound.

Desirable

Experience in extended practice, such as AVF assessment, iliac vein stent assessment and contrast ultrasound experience.

Aptitude and abilities

Essential

Effective oral and written communication skills.

Ability to prioritise and manage own work.

Ability to understand and use complex equipment.

Team working.

Desirable

Knowledge of hospital imaging and electronic patient management systems.

Knowledge

Essential

Specialised knowledge of clinical procedures and practices in vascular ultrasound.

Advanced knowledge of vascular anatomy, physiology and understanding of vascular surgical treatment options.

Proven knowledge of haemodynamics.

Desirable

Knowledge of the principals of quality assurance in vascular ultrasound service.

Proven evidence of ongoing CPD.