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- Tasks: Join our HART team to respond to critical incidents and provide specialist clinical support.
- Company: Be part of SECAmb, a trusted NHS foundation serving millions across the South East.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, ongoing training, and opportunities for career advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in emergency care while working in diverse and challenging environments.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified paramedic with at least 2 years of experience and meet physical fitness standards.
- Other info: Drop-in sessions available before assessment; successful candidates will join a talent pool for future roles.
The predicted salary is between 35392 - 42618 £ per year.
South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SECAmb) has a vision to ‘support our staff to provide a caring, high quality and efficient urgent and emergency care service to our communities’. We are rated ‘Good’ for care by the Care Quality Commission and aim to continually improve across all areas of the Trust.
Our 4,000+ workforce provides services to 4.9m people across Kent, Surrey, Sussex, and North East Hampshire, handling over 1 million calls to 999 and NHS 111 every year. More information regarding our services and locations can be found on our website.
HART in SECAmb is seeking candidates for both Ashford and Gatwick Operating Units, who are either currently operating as Experienced HART Operatives OR HCPC Registered Paramedics in an A+E ambulance setting. HART is a national initiative led by the Department of Health, enabling clinical care to be delivered in areas previously inaccessible to the Ambulance Service. HART Operatives respond to incidents involving Chemical, Biological, Radiation, Nuclear (CBRN), and Hazardous Material (HAZMAT) as well as structural/trench collapses, major transportation incidents, and rescue incidents involving complex entrapment. Operatives may also provide specialist clinical support within a Search and Rescue (USAR) environment. All operatives must attain Swift Water Rescue Technician (SRT) status, involving work in flooded areas and difficult environments.
On duty operatives must be able to deploy nationwide at short notice for periods of 36 hours or more and respond as part of an Ambulance Intervention Team, in addition to specific HART-related work.
Main duties of the job
- To apply, you must be a qualified paramedic with one of the following qualifications: IHCD Paramedic Award, BTECH Level 4, BSc, DipHE, or FdSc to train as a HART Operative.
- Band 6 experienced Paramedic with a minimum of 2 years (24 months) experience at band 6.
- Available for ALL the mandated course dates.
- Have a driving licence valid in the UK, including C1 category or equivalent.
- UK HCPC registered Paramedic.
- Applicants must have a good level of physical fitness, weigh between 50KG and 124KG (in HART PPE approx. 7 KG), and be capable of swimming a minimum of 200 meters.
- Initial training lasts 11 weeks and consists mainly of residential courses. You will also be required to respond nationwide at short notice for up to 48 hours.
The selection process will consist of:
- Physical Competence Assessment (PCA).
- Confined space/height confidence assessment.
- ALS Clinical assessment.
- Swimming assessment (200m swim/10min tread water/duck dive).
- Specialist Occupational Health Assessment (including eye, hearing, lung function, grip/back strength testing).
- Interview.
Working for our organisation
If shortlisted, you must attend an assessment on Monday 10th March at Gatwick. If you pass, you will be invited for a further swimming assessment and an interview at Ashford on Friday 14th March.
Drop-in sessions and observer shifts can be arranged at the respective HART sites prior to assessment (this is strongly encouraged). Successful candidates will join a 'talent pool' and attend training for future permanent roles. Some may enter a relief pool, completing full HART training while on existing schedules. All HART Operatives must maintain specific weight limits for PPE and pass a PCA every six months, along with ongoing training. To secure a position, candidates must complete various training courses and pass the assessments.
Person specification
- C1 Driving licence.
- HCPC Registered.
- Meet minimum medical and weight requirements.
- Band 6 experienced Paramedic with a minimum of 2 years (24 months) experience at band 6.
Please note that the salary range noted on the vacancy is in line with agenda for change (AFC) pay scales. Successful applicants will be placed at the bottom of the banding unless proven relevant NHS or equivalent experience can be demonstrated.
The Trust is committed to being an inclusive employer, supporting equality of opportunity for all staff. We particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups.
For further queries, please contact recruitment@secamb.nhs.uk.
HART Paramedic employer: South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust
Contact Detail:
South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HART Paramedic
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements for the HART Paramedic role, especially the physical fitness standards and training courses. Being well-prepared for the Physical Competence Assessment (PCA) will give you a significant advantage.
✨Tip Number 2
Consider attending drop-in sessions or observer shifts at the HART sites before your assessment. This will not only give you insight into the role but also demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm to the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current HART Operatives or paramedics in similar roles. They can provide valuable insights and tips on what to expect during the selection process and how to excel in the assessments.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the interview by reviewing common questions related to emergency care and teamwork in high-pressure situations. Showcasing your experience and ability to handle challenging scenarios will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace HART Paramedic
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the HART Paramedic position. Familiarise yourself with the specific qualifications needed, such as the IHCD Paramedic Award or equivalent, and ensure you meet the experience criteria.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience, particularly your time as a Band 6 Paramedic. Emphasise any experience in emergency care, hazardous environments, or similar roles that demonstrate your capability for the HART Operative position.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your passion for emergency care and your understanding of the HART initiative. Mention your qualifications, relevant experiences, and why you are a good fit for the role. Be sure to address how you can contribute to SECAmb's vision.
Prepare for Assessments: Since the selection process includes various assessments, prepare thoroughly. Familiarise yourself with the Physical Competence Assessment (PCA) and swimming assessment requirements. Practising these skills will help you feel more confident during the evaluation.
How to prepare for a job interview at South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust
✨Know Your Qualifications
Make sure you can clearly articulate your qualifications and experience as a paramedic. Be prepared to discuss how your background aligns with the specific requirements of the HART role, including any relevant training or certifications.
✨Demonstrate Physical Fitness
Since physical fitness is crucial for this role, be ready to discuss your fitness routine and any relevant experiences that showcase your ability to meet the physical demands of the job. Highlight any previous assessments or training that demonstrate your capabilities.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HART Operations
Research the HART initiative and understand its objectives and operations. Being knowledgeable about the types of incidents HART responds to will show your genuine interest in the role and your commitment to the service.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions during the interview that assess your decision-making and problem-solving skills in high-pressure situations. Practice articulating your thought process and how you would handle various emergency scenarios.
