IMG Library > SECURING THE RIGHT JOB & SALARY

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.

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. 

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. 

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

Consultant Clinical Oncology (Urology)

105,504- 139,882

UK

Fixed Term

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

Geriatric Medicine Consultant

£116600

Wales

Fixed Term

An NHS general hospital in Wales is seeking a Locum Consultant in Geriatric Medicine with a special interest in Orthogeriatrics. The department includes a team of 9 consultants and is supported by a large middle grade doctor team. This Geriatric Medicine role welcomes both UK-based and international applicants, especially those holding MRCP(UK) or equivalent qualifications.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Applicants should hold full GMC registration and MRCP, with solid experience in general and geriatric medicine. Subspecialty interest in Geriatric Medicine is desirable 

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

• Oversee inpatient care for 15–20 patients alongside a multidisciplinary team
• Supervise and collaborate with junior medical staff and allied professionals.
• Provide one outpatient clinic per week in geriatric medicine or a relevant subspecialty.
• Take part in education, audits, and continuous service improvement projects.

LIFE IN WALES

This role is based in a picturesque Welsh town offering both urban convenience and rural tranquility, with popular residential areas including charming market towns and countryside villages.
The region provides great schooling options, strong transport connections, and plenty of family-friendly leisure activities.
Historically rich, the area features medieval architecture and has played a significant role in Welsh and British history.

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

Consultant Clinical Oncologist (Gynae and Upper GI)

105,504- 139,882

UK

Fixed Term

An NHS specialist cancer centre in Lancashire and South Cumbria is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in gynae and upper GI cancers. The oncology department comprises a team of 8 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors.

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 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.

Anyone with an interest in gynae and upper GI oncology should apply.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

Provide systemic therapy services for patients  across UHMB sites.

Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and support associated administrative duties.

Lead and contribute to acute oncology services across the Trust (no on-call required).

Support teaching, supervision, and mentorship for junior medical staff and trainees.

LIFE IN LANCASHIRE AND SOUTH CUMBRIA

The area is rich with excellent schools, convenient rail and road links, and beautiful scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, the region has played a key role in British shipbuilding and industrial development and today combines coastal charm with cultural heritage and modern living.

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

Consultant Medical Oncologist (Melanoma)

105,504- 139,882

UK

Fixed Term

An NHS teaching hospital, in Kent is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in Melanoma. 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 Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or MRCP are most encouraged to apply.CCT in Medical 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

Consultant Medical Oncologist (Upper & Lower GI)

105,504- 139,882

UK

Fixed Term

An NHS specialist cancer centre in Lancashire and South Cumbria is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in upper and lower GI cancers. The oncology department comprises a team of 8 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors.

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 oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or MRCP are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone with an interest in upper and lower GI oncology should apply.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

• Provide systemic therapy services for patients with upper and lower GI cancers across UHMB sites.

• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings for lung and upper GI cancer and support associated administrative duties.

• Lead and contribute to acute oncology services across the Trust (no on-call required).

• Support teaching, supervision, and mentorship for junior medical staff and trainees.

LIFE IN LANCASHIRE AND SOUTH CUMBRIA

The area is rich with excellent schools, convenient rail and road links, and beautiful scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, the region has played a key role in British shipbuilding and industrial development and today combines coastal charm with cultural heritage and modern living.

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