Radiographer - Diagnostic

Job overview
We are seeking a dedicated Band 5 Radiographer to join our dynamic imaging team, delivering high-quality diagnostic services across a variety of clinical settings and patient presentations. This role supports a 24/7 service model and involves working in General X-ray, A&E X-ray, Mobile X-ray, Theatres, and CT across multiple sites: Princess Alexandra Hospital, Herts and Essex Hospital, and St Margaret’s Hospital.
Comprehensive training in CT imaging will be provided, including preparation of patients for CT Colonography examinations. For those with a keen interest, further development in advanced CT techniques, such as Cardiac CT, will be available.
We are committed to fostering continuous professional development and offer opportunities for career progression within a supportive and forward-thinking environment.
Main duties of the job

• Deliver effective radiology services in line with departmental protocols.
• Communicate professionally with patients, relatives, clinicians, and colleagues across the organisation.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to data protection regulations.
• Work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Supervise and support student radiographers and assistant practitioners.
• Comply with IR(ME)R 2017, IRR 2017, and local radiation safety regulations under the guidance of the Radiation Protection Supervisor.
• Plan and prioritise personal workload to meet clinical demands.
• Work flexibly, including evenings and weekends, within contracted hours.
• Engage in self-directed learning and maintain a record of Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
• Accurately update patient records using manual and electronic systems.
• Contribute to the implementation of IT and radiology systems, including RIS, PACS, PAS, and electronic requesting.
• Participate in departmental quality assurance and audit programmes.
• Attend all mandatory training sessions as required by the Trust.
• Ensure the safe and appropriate use of radiographic equipment.
• Promptly report equipment faults and incidents in accordance with departmental procedures.
• Adhere to Trust policies for incident reporting and health and safety.
  The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) is proud to care for the communities of West Essex, delivering safe, compassionate, and high-quality services. We are part of the Neighbourhood Wave, a national programme that’s changing how care is delivered by focusing on prevention, early support, and more joined-up services across health, social care, and the voluntary sector.
  This means we’re working more closely with local partners to bring care closer to home and support people to live healthier, more independent lives.
  We’re a supportive and inclusive organisation that values its people. We offer development opportunities, flexible working, and a strong focus on wellbeing. As a Disability Confident and equal opportunities employer, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences.
  Join us and help shape the future of care in West Essex.
  Detailed job description and main responsibilities
• Operating radiographic equipment safely and effectively across all hospital areas, including wards and theatres.
• Communicating with patients to confirm identity, obtain consent, and assess pregnancy status where applicable, including patients with language or cognitive barriers.
• Maintaining professional and legal accountability for all clinical actions.
• Positioning and handling patients in accordance with Manual Handling Protocols to obtain diagnostic images, which may involve light to moderate lifting.
• Assessing image quality and determining diagnostic adequacy.
• Safely manoeuvring heavy radiographic equipment.
• Managing multiple, often competing demands while maintaining focus and accuracy.
• Identifying gross pathology and expediting reporting when necessary, using the "Red Dot" system for suspected fractures.
• Performing mobile radiographic examinations across clinical areas.
• Providing imaging services in theatre settings.
• Conducting dental radiography in compliance with strict hygiene protocols.
• Assisting in fluoroscopic procedures as required.
• Responding to trauma calls and performing imaging in the Resuscitation Room within the A&E Department, often involving severely injured patients.
• Undertaking imaging for "Suspected Physical Abuse" cases, typically involving infants and young children, in line with strict medico-legal standards.
• Optionally participating in forensic radiography for the Coroner’s Office.
• Acting as the first-line imaging responder during out-of-hours shifts for a population of approximately 250,000.
• Complying with all relevant legislation and Trust policies, including the Data Protection Act, Health and Safety at Work Act, COSHH, and local radiation rules.
• Undertaking additional duties as delegated by senior management.
• Participating in annual performance appraisals and setting professional development objectives.
• Maintaining a professional appearance and attitude at all times, acting as an ambassador for the radiology department and the wider Trust.