Job requirements
Requirements from the employer’s person specification. These describe the role, not your personal match.
Essential
9 listedRequirements the employer expects applicants to meet.
- Experience
Knowledge of windows systems, requirement to manipulate data within excel, word, PowerPoint and other bespoke system
- Experience
Switchboard/Call Centre experience.
- Experience
Knowledge and experience on customer services
- Qualifications
Good general education (GCSE's) -- including English and mathematics or equivalent
- Qualifications
Relevant vocational qualification(equivalent to Microsoft Office MOST, ECDL or related qualification)
- Qualifications
Vocational level 3 /BTEC) in IM&T or information systems related subject (or relevant experience in IM&T environment)
- Additional Criteria
Good working knowledge and understanding of PC hardware, operating systems and Microsoft IT packages.
- Additional Criteria
Demonstrable comfort with IT systems and a willingness to learn new IT skills
- Additional Criteria
Previous experience of healthcare or large complex organisation
Desirable
Not listed in the available specification.
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 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.
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.
Details
- Date posted: 07 September 2026
- Pay scheme: Agenda for change
- Band: Band 3
- Salary: £24,947 to £27,476 a year
- Contract: Permanent
- Working pattern: Full-time
- Reference number: 184-OL-PU-5709
- Job locations: Musgrove Park Hospital, Musgrove Road, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 5DA, United Kingdom
Job responsibilities
Please refer to the attached Job Description and Person Specification for more information about the role.
WhatsApp job alerts
Get instant WhatsApp alerts for Band 3 Administrative and IT roles in Taunton
Create your Job Clerk account first. We'll collect your alert preferences during onboarding and help you turn on WhatsApp notifications for matching healthcare roles.
Applying for this NHS job
This advert is for Switchboard Operator with Somerset NHS Foundation Trust in Taunton, England. It is listed as a Band 3 Switchboard operator role. The advertised salary is £24947.00 to £27476.00. The contract type is Permanent. The application deadline is 20 Sep 2026.
Before you apply, compare the job description with the person specification and mirror the employer's essential criteria in your supporting information. Use the vacancy title, employer, location, salary, contract type, closing date and posted date (07 Sep 2026) to decide whether this role fits your current NHSjob search. If the employer can close applications early, prepare the application before the stated deadline rather than waiting for the final day.
For more context, review related Job Clerk pages for the same profession, band or location where they exist, then use the application-support guides to tailor your statement and prepare for interview.