HSC Northern Ireland - Doctors' pay scales explained
- September 06, 2024
If you're an international doctor considering a career with the NHS in Northern Ireland, understanding the NHS salary structure is essential. Overseas doctors often find the NHS pay scales complex, but knowing how they work is key to planning your move to the UK.
Doctors working within HSC (Health and Social Care) Northern Ireland are compensated with competitive pay and comprehensive benefits. However, for international medical graduates, navigating the various NHS pay bands can be daunting.
In this guide, we’ll break down the different NHS grades and explain how they relate to pay scales in Northern Ireland, so you can better understand your earning potential as a doctor in the NHS.
In this article we will take a look at the following topics:
- Typical NHS doctor’s salary in Northern Ireland
- FY1 & FY2
- Specialist Training (ST1 – ST8)
- Specialty Doctor
- Associate Specialist
- Consultants
- Where do I fit on the pay scale?
- Doctors in training pay scale
- Specialty Doctor Pay Scale
- Specialist Grade Pay Scale
- Consultant Pay Pcale
- Additional pay, benefits, pensions and terms & conditions
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you're looking for.
Trust doctor jobs and IMGs' pay
It’s important to understand that most overseas doctors begin their UK careers in a fixed-term Trust doctor role (also known as a service post) before moving into a training position. Doctors at all levels can enter a service post, which means they are not in formal training or pursuing specialty training.
Most of our job adverts for fixed-term or permanent roles are for service positions, typically for SAS doctors, consultants, SHO, or Trust doctor roles equivalent to FY2, ST1/2, or ST3+. These posts can be particularly attractive due to the potential for higher, negotiable salaries, based on experience and demand, making them an appealing option for international doctors.
The pay scales that we have included in this article are to be used as a guide or starting point for negotiating your Trust doctor role (or service post).
Typical NHS doctor’s salary in Northern Ireland
FY1 & FY2
At Foundation Year 1 (FY1), your starting basic salary is £29,566, which increases to £36,371 in your second year (FY2).
As a doctor in training, you will receive a basic salary based on a 40-hour workweek, along with additional pay for extra hours worked. This includes a 37% pay enhancement for night shifts, a weekend allowance for weekend work, an on-call allowance, and other potential pay premiums depending on your specific duties and schedule. These enhancements ensure you're fairly compensated for the demands of your role.
Specialist Training (ST1 – ST8)
If you are a doctor starting your specialist training, your basic salary starts at £38,780 and can progress to £50,903.
As a doctor in training you will earn a basic salary for 40 hours per week, plus pay for additional hours worked, 37% enhancement for nights, weekend allowance for weekend work, on call allowance and other possible pay premiums.
Specialty Doctor
Specialty doctors currently earn from £52,530 to £82,400 basic pay.
The basic contract is for 40 hours. As a specialty doctor you can be paid for additional duties, extra hours worked, weekend work and on calls.
Specialist Grade
A key element of recent SAS contract reform is the introduction of a new grade, called the Specialist grade or Associate Specialist, which will provide an opportunity for career progression for highly experienced specialty doctors. Associate Specialists doctors can earn a basic of between £83,945 to £95,275.
Consultant
Consultants currently earn from £88,799 to £119,723 basic pay.
As a consultant you can be paid for additional duties and may be eligible for Clinical Excellence Awards, which reward outstanding performance. The basic contract is for 40 hours per week.
If you take on extra responsibilities (i.e. management or education) you can also expect to be paid additional supplements.
So where do I fit on the pay scale?
There are a few key points when considering where you fit on the pay scale:
- Job title
- Experience
- Hours worked
- Trusts can be different
Key Factors to Consider When Evaluating Your NHS Job Offer
When applying for NHS jobs as an international doctor, it's essential to fully understand how factors like your job title, experience, hours worked, and the specific NHS Trust can impact your salary. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
1. Job Title
Your job title is a key factor in determining your pay scale.
- At the Consultant level, your role and pay are straightforward—you will be a consultant.
- However, at the Specialty Doctor level, your title could vary between SAS Doctor, Specialty Doctor, or Trust Grade Doctor.
- As an ST (Specialty Trainee) or SHO (Senior House Officer), you could work across several levels.
Each of these titles commands a different pay scale, depending on the level of responsibility and experience required. It's crucial to carefully check the job title you're applying for and ensure you understand the corresponding pay scale.
2. Experience in Your Specialty
Your years of experience in your chosen specialty directly affect your position on the pay scale.
For example, when calculating pay for a Specialty Doctor in Medicine, an NHS Trust may deduct two years of experience to account for Core Training in the UK. However, this deduction may not apply in all specialties, so it’s important to verify with an IMG Consultant for specific details related to your field.
3. Hours You Will Work
Your working hours are another critical factor. Both SAS Doctors and Consultants typically work based on Programmed Activities (PAs).
- Each PA represents 4 hours of work, with a standard week consisting of 10 PAs (40 hours).
- Your basic salary will be calculated based on this 40-hour week, but if you work more than 10 PAs, you will receive additional pay on top of your base salary.
This system ensures that you are compensated fairly for any extra hours worked.
4. NHS Trust Variations
Lastly, be aware that some NHS Trusts may interpret pay scales and experience differently. While all NHS Trusts are expected to follow the same pay scale structures when recruiting doctors, there can be variations in how they assess your experience and apply salary scales.
Make sure to ask questions during the interview process and clarify how your pay is calculated to avoid any surprises.
When evaluating your NHS job offer, taking the time to understand the nuances of your job title, experience, working hours, and the specific NHS Trust is essential. These factors will ultimately determine your position on the pay scale and the salary you can expect.
This blog is a guideline, and if you are not sure of how to approach this discussion with an HR department, it can be very useful for an IMG Connect consultant to assist with the negotiations to ensure that your experience is always taken into account.
NHS Pay Scales in Northern Ireland
Doctors in Training: Understanding Service Level Jobs and Pay Scales
Service level jobs within the NHS are in high demand across all levels of experience, offering competitive rates of pay for international doctors. Once you're in the UK, you’ll also have the opportunity to apply for training roles, depending on your entry level.
The pay scale for doctors in training varies based on entry points, including FY1 (Foundation Year 1), ST1/CT1 (Specialty Training/Core Training Year 1), and ST3/4. These roles come with a standard working week of 10 Programmed Activities (PAs), equating to 40 hours. However, if you work additional hours, on-call shifts, or weekends, your take-home pay will increase accordingly.
Use the following pay scale as a guide for service level posts. Keep in mind, by consulting with an IMG Consultant, you may find opportunities to negotiate higher pay based on your experience and the demand for your specialty. It’s very possible to earn more than the standard pay scales listed below.
Understanding these factors will help you make informed decisions as you navigate your NHS career and maximise your earnings.
|
Foundation Doctors & Specialty Registrars |
|||||
|
Scale
|
Foundation Doctor 1 M220 |
Foundation Doctor 2 M230 |
Specialty Registrar (fixed term) M240 |
Specialty Registrar (core training) MN39 |
Specialty Registrar (full) MN37 |
|
Min |
£29,566 |
£36,371 | £38,780 | £38,780 | £38,780 |
|
1 |
£31,334 | £38,666 | £41,078 | £41,078 | £41,078 |
|
2 |
£33,099 | £40,964 | £44,283 | £44,283 | £44,283 |
|
3 |
£46,224 | £46,224 | £46,224 | ||
|
4 |
£48,563 | £48,563 | £48,563 | ||
|
5 |
£50,903 | £50,903 | £50,903 | ||
|
6 |
£53,243 | ||||
| £55,582 | |||||
|
8 |
£57,921 | ||||
|
9 |
£60,261 | ||||
SAS Doctor Pay Scale
SAS stands for Staff Grade, Associate Specialist and Specialty Doctor. They will have at least four years of full-time postgraduate training, two of which have been in the relevant specialty. Specialist Grades and Specialty Doctors in Scotland have their own contracts in place for senior doctors these contracts are based in full-time work commitment of 10 programmed activities per week it has been timetabled value of four hours. The new pay structure will enable SAS doctors to access the top of the pay scale more quickly than the current system, increasing the career average earnings.
It is important to note that your pay will reflect your experience within your chosen field.
The pay code on the left-hand side of the table below correlates to the number of years’ experience that you qualify for in your chosen specialty, and the number of years that the HR department are going to attribute to you.
Remember to discount any years that you have worked in an internship. And if you are working in a medicine specialty, deduct any core training years.
In the first threshold, for every year of experience you gain, this entitles you to a pay rise. In the second threshold, you will receive an increase every two years, and in the third, every three years.
The salary is based on a standard working week of 10PAs (40 hours), if you work additional hours, on calls or weekend work, then your take home pay will increase as a result.
As above, use the below as a salary guide for service level posts in England. It is worthwhile checking with your IMG Consultant the best pay opportunities for you, it is highly conceivable that you can earn more than the pay scales below depending on experience and demand.
|
Specialty Doctor |
||
|
Years' Experience |
Basic Salary |
Pay Point |
|
0 |
£52,530 |
1 |
|
1 |
||
|
2 |
||
|
3 |
£60,519 |
2 |
|
4 |
||
|
5 |
||
|
6 |
£67,465 | 3 |
|
7 |
||
|
8 |
||
|
9 |
£74,675 | 4 |
|
10 |
||
|
11 |
||
|
12 |
£82,400 | 5 - top |
|
13 |
||
|
14 |
||
|
15 |
||
|
16 |
||
|
17 |
||
|
Specialist Grade |
||
|
Years' Experience |
Basic Salary |
Pay Point |
|
1 |
£83,945 |
1 |
|
2 |
||
|
3 |
||
|
4 |
£89,610 |
2 |
|
6 |
||
|
7 |
£95,275 | 3 (top) |
Consultant Pay Scale
Service level consultant doctor jobs are in high demand in Scotland at all levels of experience, each offering competitive rates of pay.
At the consultant grade, HR departments will look at your years of experience within your specialty, as a consultant.
On the table below, you can see that all you need to do is count up the total number of complete years of experience (12 months each) as a consultant, and then count down the rows to establish your salary position.
Like the above, the salary is based on a standard working week of 10 PAs (40 hours), if you work additional hours, on calls or weekend work, then your take home pay will increase as a result.
Remember, use the below as a salary guide for service level posts in England. It is worthwhile checking with your IMG Consultant the best pay opportunities for you, it is highly conceivable that you can earn more than the pay scales below depending on experience and demand.
|
Threshold |
Years completed as a consultant |
Basic Salary |
|
1 |
1 (starting salary) |
£88,799 |
|
2 |
2 |
£91,581 |
|
3 |
3 |
£94,362 |
|
4 |
4 |
£97,141 |
|
5 |
5 |
£99,913 |
|
6 |
||
|
7 |
||
|
8 |
||
|
9 |
||
|
6 |
10 |
£106,520 |
|
11 |
||
|
12 |
||
|
13 |
||
|
14 |
||
|
7 |
15 |
£113,124 |
|
16 |
||
|
17 |
||
|
19 |
||
|
8 |
20+ |
£119,723 |
The most recent full pay circular for Northern Ireland can be found here.
Additional pay, benefits, pensions and terms & conditions
Current national salary scales for medical and dental staff are published in pay and conditions circulars on the NHS Employers website.
You may be eligible for additional pay on top of your basic salary if you work above the standard 10 PAs, work on call & weekends, or take on extra responsibilities. All doctors are eligible for NHS pensions and benefits.
Sources
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-hsc-tc8-03-2022.PDF
Relevant Jobs
A large NHS teaching hospital in the East Midlands is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in lung, gynaecology, and/or colorectal cancer. The oncology department comprises a team of over 20 consultants and is supported by a large team of specialty doctors and junior trainees.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.
FRCR (or equivalent) and extensive oncology experience are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in lung, gynaecology, and/or colorectal cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Provide comprehensive non-surgical oncology services, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy clinics, for patients across lung, gynaecology, and/or colorectal tumour sites.
-
Participate in the oncology on-call rota (1:12) and provide reciprocal cover for colleagues during periods of leave.
-
Support the education and training of junior doctors, specialty doctors, ACPs, and medical students.
-
Contribute to clinical governance, service development, and research initiatives across the Trust.
LIFE IN THE EAST MIDLANDS
This role is based in the East Midlands, a region that offers the perfect balance of urban convenience and rural charm. Residents can enjoy city living in Derby or find quieter settings in the nearby countryside and villages. The area boasts outstanding schools, excellent transport links, and a wide variety of cultural, sporting, and outdoor activities. With its strong ties to Britain’s industrial heritage and the beautiful Peak District on its doorstep, the East Midlands is a popular choice for healthcare professionals relocating to the UK.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
-
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
-
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
-
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
-
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
-
Document gathering and checking
-
COS and Visa Application support if applicable
-
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
-
Travel Arrangements
This exceptional opportunity beckons Consultant Histopathologists specializing in Gynae oncopathology to become integral members of an NHS Trust that is a global beacon in cancer research and treatment. This role offers a chance to contribute to a consultant-led, subspecialist histopathology team, making a significant impact on the forefront of cancer care. We invite enthusiastic candidates to explore this exciting career prospect through NHS Jobs in the UK.
The NHS Foundation Trust, standing as Europe\'s largest comprehensive cancer center, commands an impressive annual budget of £360 million, employing over 3,500 staff, including 335 medical professionals. Acknowledged for its excellence, the Trust consistently ranks among the top four in national surveys, affirming its commitment to delivering high-quality patient care. The Histopathology Department, under the leadership of esteemed professionals, manages a substantial caseload, processing around 21,000 surgical pathology accessions annually. This involves the examination of approximately 280,000 slides, with a notable 1,000 cases annually seeking second opinions, underscoring the department\'s dedication to providing comprehensive diagnostic support.
This role is tailor-made for ambitious consultants looking to expand their career horizons. The well-funded department is a hub for impactful research, underscored by its recognition in a recent CQC report as an area of outstanding practice. The NHS Foundation Trust has a strong reputation for education and training, supporting junior doctor training programs across various specialties.
Living in London, a vibrant metropolis, provides a unique lifestyle enriched by cultural diversity. Residents can explore scenic spots like Hyde Park and the Thames River. World-renowned schools, including Imperial College London and University College London, contribute to the city\'s intellectual vibrancy. Excellent transport links facilitate easy travel within the city and to major cities and airports. Housing options, ranging from historic townhouses to modern apartments, accommodate diverse preferences, ensuring a comfortable and enriching life for medical professionals in the heart of London.
Apply now for a dynamic career at the forefront of cancer care, complemented by the vibrant and diverse urban lifestyle offered by the capital city.
AM I ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
Non-EEA candidates:
- FRCPath
- Experience in Histopathology (sub specialised in Gynae oncopathology)
EEA candidates:
- Specialist certification in Histopathology
- Experience in Histopathology (sub specailised in Gynae oncopathology)
UK candidates:
- CCT, CESR or within 6-12 months of specialist registration
- Experience in Histopathology (sub specialised in Gynae oncopathology)
A hospital in the Channel Islands is looking for a Staff Grade Doctor in General Medicine with interests in Respiratory, Renal, or Care of the Elderly. The department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This role is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCP qualifications are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Full registration with the General Medical Council and a minimum of 2 years of post-qualifying experience are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Respiratory, Renal, or Care of the Elderly should apply. The salary will be between £58,742 and £97,050 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide high-quality care across both inpatient and outpatient services within the chosen specialty.
- Participate in the middle-grade tier rota, including on-call duties.
- Support the clinical management of patients in various units, including emergency and intensive care.
- Collaborate with consultants and multidisciplinary teams to ensure continuous service improvement.
LIFE IN THE CHANNEL ISLANDS
The hospital is located in a vibrant town, with popular residential areas offering both urban and rural living options. The region offers excellent schools, efficient transport links, and a wide range of leisure activities for both adults and families, including beautiful beaches, sports facilities, and cultural events. The area has a rich history, having been a strategic location during World War II and now boasting a unique blend of cultural influences.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
- At least two video calling interview preparation sessions Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
- Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
- Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
A UK-based mental health service is seeking a Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist to join their Neurodevelopmental Team. This is a part-time (0.8 FTE), permanent post, offering an exciting opportunity to take on a senior clinical leadership role within a well-established specialist service for children and adolescents with complex neurodevelopmental conditions.
The team operates within a multidisciplinary framework, delivering comprehensive assessments, pharmacological treatment, and evidence-based care for young people. The role is ideal for experienced consultants looking to shape service delivery while maintaining strong clinical involvement.
This opportunity is also open to international applicants, particularly those eligible for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register and who will be applying via CESR.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
-
Job Title: Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist – Neurodevelopmental Team
-
Contract: 8 Programmed Activities (PAs) per week – Part-Time
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Salary: £105,000 – £139,000 (pro rata, dependent on experience)
Applicants must have:
- Full GMC registration with a licence to practise
- GMC Specialist Register in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
- Section 12(2) MHA approval, or a willingness to complete this upon appointment
- Experience working in child, adolescent, or neurodevelopmental psychiatric services
- Strong leadership, multidisciplinary collaboration, and communication skills
- The ability to travel independently across service sites, including schools and service users\' homes
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Lead on psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and pharmacological treatment planning for young people with complex and/or high-risk neurodevelopmental presentations.
- Provide consultation and guidance to the multidisciplinary team, as well as external agencies including paediatrics, schools, Tier 4 providers, and primary care.
- Maintain clinical oversight for young people under the care of the team, participating in emergency assessments and the consultant out-of-hours rota.
- Attend and contribute to weekly multidisciplinary team meetings and clinical formulations.
- Collaborate with carers, families, and professionals to co-create effective, evidence-based care plans.
- Support transitions from child to adult mental health services in line with protocol.
- Fulfil duties under the Mental Health Act, including conducting assessments and contributing to reports and tribunals as required.
- Maintain clear and timely medical documentation and support audit and quality improvement initiatives.
MANAGEMENT & STRATEGIC RESPONSIBILITIES
-
Provide senior clinical leadership in partnership with the non-medical Clinical Team Lead.
- Contribute to the development of service-wide clinical guidelines and care pathways.
- Support service planning and transformation initiatives based on emerging need.
- Actively participate in governance activities, clinical audit, and performance monitoring.
- Engage with stakeholders and external partners at strategic and operational levels.
LIFE IN THE REGION
This role is based in a well-connected and scenic part of the UK, ideal for those who enjoy a balance between urban accessibility and countryside living. With excellent road and rail links, London is just 1 hour by train and car, offering easy commuting and travel.
The area is highly attractive for families, with access to top-rated schools, green open spaces, and a vibrant local community. Whether you\'re seeking historic towns, cultural attractions, or tranquil rural retreats, this region offers something for everyone.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.
- At least two video interview preparation sessions.
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, including:
- Document gathering and checking.
- COS and Visa Application support, if applicable.
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
- Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.
An NHS teaching hospital in Kent is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in urology. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 40 Clinical and Medical Oncology consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, fellows, and trainees.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
-
This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.CCT in Clinical Oncology or equivalent experience, including CESR pathway candidates.
-
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Provide high-quality specialist care to melanoma patients attending the Kent Oncology Centre.
-
Attend relevant MDT meetings and coordinate treatment planning with other specialists.
-
Participate in departmental research initiatives and contribute to national and local clinical trials.
-
Contribute to training and supervision of junior doctors and participate in clinical governance activities.
Life in Kent
The area offers the best of both worlds: urban living in towns like Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, and tranquil countryside villages such as Lenham or Goudhurst.
Kent boasts a wide range of excellent primary and secondary schools, including several grammar schools, and is well connected to London via high-speed rail and road. Residents enjoy easy access to historic castles, the coast, national parks, shopping, and outdoor activities—perfect for both adults and families.
Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent holds historical significance with its Roman heritage, medieval cathedrals, and coastal defense legacy, offering a unique blend of culture and natural beauty.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
-
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
-
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
-
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
-
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you all the way to starting your new role, including:
-
Document gathering and checking
-
COS and Visa Application support, if applicable
-
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
-
Travel arrangements
-
Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care