Compare roles in health

Not sure where to start with the hundreds of NHS careers? Use our compare roles section to get bite-size information on the entry requirements and training, pay and conditions, prospects and skills needed of up to three roles. If there is something that you think you could do, then get more in-depth information on the role.

Don't forget, you can also save your role comparisons by registering with us.  

  1. Peer support worker

    Peer support workers are people who use their lived experience of mental health problems to support others. 

    A national training programme is being developed which will be delivered by people with lived experience, with support from the NHS, to help individuals develop the skills they need to be a peer support worker. On-the-job training will also be provided as appropriate.
    Peer support workers are employed on Agenda for change band 3 or 4.
    Open, honest and friendly; good communication skills or willingness to develop these; ability to use lived experience in a positive and appropriate way; awareness or own personal recovery journey; able to work as part of a team or want to work as part of a team.
  2. Medical engineering

    Medical engineering refers to the process of checking medical equipment to make sure it’s working properly and is safe to use.

    A-levels (or an equivalent level-3 qualification) are required for entry onto the BSc (Hons) healthcare science (NHS Practitioner Training Programme); for the NHS Scientist Training Programme, you’ll need a 1st or 2.1 either in an undergraduate honours degree or an integrated master’s degree in a relevant pure or applied science subject. If you have a relevant 2.2 honours degree, you’ll also be considered if you have a higher degree in a subject relevant to the specialism for which you are applying. Evidence of research experience is desirable.; experience as a registered clinical scientist for Higher Specialist Scientist Training (HSST).
    NHS staff will usually work a standard 37.5 hours per week. They may work a shift pattern. Most jobs in the NHS are covered by the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay scales. As a healthcare science practitioner, you’d usually start on band 5, with opportunities to progress to more senior positions. Trainee clinical scientists train at band 6 level, and qualified clinical scientists are generally appointed at band 7. With experience and further qualifications, including Higher Specialist Scientist Training, you could apply for posts up to band 9. Terms and conditions of service can vary for employers outside the NHS.
    An interest in science and technology, good communication skills, comfortable using modern technology and complex equipment, meticulous attention to detail, good interpersonal skills and able to work as part of a team.
    With further training or experience or both, you may be able to develop your career further and apply for vacancies in areas such as further specialisation, management, research, or teaching.
Make a comment or report a problem with this page

Help us improve

This form is for you to tell us about something that could be improved about the website or if there's anything wrong, incorrect or inaccurate with what you see. 

If you have a query about a career in the NHS, please visit our contact us page and call or email us.