Specialist Healthcare Scientist UK Visa Sponsorship

Job Description

We are thrilled to offer a rewarding Band 6 Biomedical Scientist position within our growing Point of Care Testing (PoCT) team at NHS Forth Valley.

PoCT plays a vital and fast-evolving role in modern healthcare, delivering rapid diagnostic results that support quicker decisions in both hospital and community settings, ultimately enhancing patient care and outcomes. Joining our committed PoCT team, you’ll help deliver reliable, high-standard testing services across the region. You’ll support users effectively, contribute to robust diagnostic processes, and provide essential stability to the service. This position is integral to our long-term staffing strategy, assisting the PoCT Lead in maintaining a dependable, responsive, and well-regulated PoCT operation.

In this role, you’ll take on a range of responsibilities, including:

• Offering specialist scientific guidance and advice to clinical teams using PoCT equipment throughout NHS Forth Valley.
• Supporting governance, quality control, and assurance activities  such as internal quality control (IQC), external quality assessment (EQA), device verification and validation, plus audits.
• Designing, delivering, and evaluating training and competency assessments for staff operating PoCT devices.
• Creating, updating, and managing standard operating procedures (SOPs), risk assessments, and other quality-related records.
• Resolving technical issues with devices or testing processes, while coordinating with clinical, laboratory, and support teams.
• Assisting the PoCT Lead through supervision of support staff and stepping in as deputy when needed.
• Collaborating closely with lab teams, clinical departments, and external stakeholders to ensure a compliant, patient-centered, and secure PoCT environment.
• Participating in quality improvement initiatives, accreditation readiness, and projects to expand PoCT services.

We are open to applications from candidates who are currently HCPC registered or actively pursuing registration. If appointed without full registration, you’ll need to successfully complete the relevant IBMS portfolios and our in-house training program within the specified timeframe before advancing. During this period, your salary will align with Band 6 Annex 21 under the Agenda for Change terms.

For an informal discussion about the role, please reach out to Joanne Lyon, PoCT Service Manager, at joanne.lyon@nhs.scot or on 01324 567021.

Important note on working hours: Starting 1 April 2026, the standard full-time week under Agenda for Change will reduce from 37 to 36 hours, with part-time hours adjusted proportionally. The hourly rate will increase accordingly, ensuring no impact on overall pay.

Visa Sponsorship Information

We welcome applications from international candidates. If you require a visa to work in the UK, NHS Forth Valley may be able to provide sponsorship under the appropriate route, depending on the role meeting eligibility criteria such as minimum salary thresholds and occupation codes.

Biomedical Scientists in PoCT typically qualify under the Health and Care Worker visa (a subcategory of the Skilled Worker visa), which is designed for eligible healthcare professionals working in the NHS. This route often offers benefits like reduced application fees, faster processing, and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge.

Sponsorship is considered on a case-by-case basis after a successful interview and during pre-employment checks — it is not guaranteed. Transitional rules may apply if you’re already in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa.

For official details on visa options, eligibility, and requirements:

• Visit the UK Government’s Health and Care Worker visa overview: https://www.gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa
• Review the Skilled Worker visa guidance (including healthcare specifics): https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
• Read tailored advice for international applicants seeking health and social care roles in the UK: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/applying-for-health-and-social-care-jobs-in-the-uk-from-abroad

The successful candidate must join the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme. More details are available at: https://www.disclosurescotland.co.uk

Please submit original, personal responses in your application — we strongly discourage the use of AI, automation, or third-party tools to generate or heavily edit answers. By applying, you confirm that your submission reflects your own knowledge, skills, and experiences.

Most updates will come via email (check your inbox and spam/junk folders) and your Jobtrain account.

NHS Forth Valley values diversity and is committed to equality. We offer interviews to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria  contact our Recruitment Office at 0330 041 4694 for any adjustments needed during the process.

NHS Scotland promotes an inclusive workplace free from discrimination, welcoming applications from all backgrounds to build a workforce that truly represents our communities.