Job Description
Role Overview
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is inviting applications for a Specialty Doctor in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery to join the established team at Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton. This full-time post (10 programmed activities) offers a flexible job plan and opportunities to work across Yeovil District Hospital and community locations, supporting services for a population of approximately 600,000.
This position provides a varied clinical workload across outpatient clinics, day surgery, and inpatient care. Depending on experience, there may also be the opportunity to contribute to the second-tier on-call rota. The role is ideal for clinicians who want to combine hands-on surgical practice with teaching, research, and service improvement within a busy regional maxillofacial unit.
Your Contribution
Clinical Responsibilities
- Deliver high-quality oral surgery and maxillofacial care across elective and urgent pathways
- Manage dento-alveolar procedures, oral infections, minor trauma, and soft tissue lesions
- Provide care within outpatient, theatre, and day-case environments
- Offer clinical advice on a wide range of emergency and planned conditions
- Maintain accurate patient records and ensure clear communication with patients and colleagues
Team & Service Development
- Work closely with consultants, SAS colleagues, DCTs, and specialist nursing teams
- Support and supervise junior trainees, escalating cases appropriately
- Contribute to service development aligned with departmental priorities
- Participate in clinical governance, incident reporting, and quality improvement initiatives
- Assist in ensuring effective use of departmental resources
Education, Research & Professional Growth
- Contribute to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching programmes
- Participate in clinical audit and evidence-based practice initiatives
- Support or lead research projects relevant to maxillofacial surgery
- Engage in continuing professional development and the SAS development framework
- Take part in appraisal and reflective practice processes
The Department
The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery service is well equipped with modern facilities including digital radiology, CBCT imaging, and dedicated day surgery theatres. The unit maintains strong collaborative links with oncology, dermatology, orthodontics, and restorative dentistry services.
You will be joining a supportive and multidisciplinary environment that promotes mutual respect, shared learning, and patient-centred care.
Working at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
The Trust is committed to supporting staff wellbeing, career progression, and long-term professional development.
Staff benefits include:
- Flexible working opportunities where service needs allow
- Membership of the NHS Pension Scheme
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Access to staff discounts including the Blue Light Card
- Structured learning and development opportunities
- Learn more about public sector pensions here:
Why Somerset?
Somerset offers a balance of rural landscapes, coastal scenery, and convenient access to cities such as Bristol, Bath, and Exeter, with London reachable in around two hours. The area is known for comparatively affordable housing, good schools, and a high quality of life—making it an excellent location for both career progression and family life.
Person Requirements
Essential Qualifications & Registration
- Full registration with the General Dental Council (GDC)
- MFDS, FDSRCS, or an equivalent postgraduate dental qualification
- At least three years’ experience within a recognised Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery department
- You can verify professional registration requirements here:
Essential Skills & Experience
- Broad clinical competence across oral surgery and maxillofacial conditions
- Ability to manage elective and emergency presentations
- Confidence working under consultant supervision with responsibility for patient care
- Strong organisational, communication, and teamwork skills
- Commitment to education, audit, and continuing medical education
- Professional integrity, reliability, and awareness of personal clinical limits
- Full UK driving licence (or equivalent)
Desirable Attributes
Formal teaching experience
- Leadership or involvement in audit and service improvement projects
- Competence in using digital systems for documentation and governance
Pre-Employment & Compliance
This role is subject to appropriate safeguarding and regulatory checks:
Inclusive Recruitment
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust values diversity and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. The organisation is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where staff feel respected, supported, and able to develop their careers.
