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
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
- FRCPath or equivalent and Full GMC Registration are required.
- The salary will be competitive and dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide histopathology services for diagnostics.
- Participate in the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme.
- Collaborate in academic and educational activities.
- Contribute to digital Histopathology system development.
LIFE IN THE REGION
The position is based in a city offering a mix of urban amenities and scenic rural living options. Families will find excellent schools, easy access to transport, and a range of leisure activities. The region has a rich cultural and historical significance.
An NHS district general hospital in the North of Scotland is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with an interest in Lung, Head & Neck, or Breast cancer. The oncology department comprises a team of 7 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCR (or equivalent) 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
FRCR, full GMC registration with specialist registration or within 6 months of CCT, along with broad experience in prescribing radiotherapy and SACT, are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Lung, Head & Neck, or Breast radiotherapy should apply. The salary will be between £107,144 and £142,369 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Manage a subspecialty caseload in Lung, H&N or Breast radiotherapy, delivering high-quality care and treatment planning.
-
Participate in MDT meetings, clinical governance, research and teaching activities.
-
Contribute to acute oncology on-call cover and peripheral clinics across the region.
-
Lead or support the development of new services or innovations in clinical delivery within the department.
LIFE IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
This job is based in the Scottish Highlands, a region known for both its bustling city of Inverness and rural escapes like Beauly or Fort Augustus.
The Highlands offer excellent schools, strong transport links including rail and air connections, and year-round recreational options from hiking to arts festivals. The city also has a vibrant cultural and social scene for families and professionals alike.
Rich in heritage, the Highlands are home to some of Scotland’s most renowned history—from clan culture to castles—making this region both a scenic and significant place to live and work.
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
An NHS acute hospital in the South East is looking for a Specialist Acute Physician with an interest in Same Day Emergency Care and Ambulatory Medicine. The Acute Internal Medicine department comprises a team of 13 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Acute Medicine job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCP (UK) 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
MBBS or equivalent, full GMC registration, MRCP, and a minimum of 4 years’ post-graduate NHS experience (with at least 2 years in Acute Medicine) are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in expanding SDEC and short stay services should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 - £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Provision of the Acute Internal Medicine service, including same day emergency care, inpatients on the AMU, and the Short Stay Unit
-
Receiving referrals from primary care to provide clinical advice and triage for potential admissions
-
Supervision of junior doctors and alternative workforce, including advice on treatment plans
-
Participation in clinical education and governance activities, and supporting development of the department
LIFE IN THE SOUTH EAST
This role is based in a major coastal city in the South East, with nearby living options ranging from lively urban centres to scenic rural towns. The region offers strong transport connections, reputable schools, and a wide range of leisure pursuits including historic attractions, beaches, and outdoor activities. Known for its maritime heritage, this area has longstanding ties to British naval and defence 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
An NHS teaching hospital in the West Midlands is looking for a Locum Consultant in Microbiology with an interest in clinical microbiology, infection control, and antimicrobial stewardship. The Microbiology department comprises a team of 5 consultant microbiologists and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Microbiology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath 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
FRCPath (or equivalent) and significant experience in microbiology and infectious diseases are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in antimicrobial stewardship and infection control should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Provide clinical microbiology advice for inpatients and outpatients, including infection control and antimicrobial therapy recommendations.
-
Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings such as OPAT, diabetic foot, and spinal infection MDTs.
-
Be part of a 1:7 on-call rota, providing microbiology advice out-of-hours to hospital and community services.
-
Contribute to laboratory report validation, audit activities, and CPD, including teaching junior doctors and medical students.
LIFE IN STOKE
This role is based in Stoke-on-Trent. Many staff choose to live in Stoke itself for urban convenience, or in nearby towns like Stone or rural Cheshire for a quieter lifestyle. The area is well-served by excellent transport links, schools, and local amenities, with plenty of leisure activities including country parks, theatres, and restaurants. Stoke-on-Trent has a rich industrial heritage and is famously known as the heart of the UK’s pottery industry, offering cultural and historical interest alongside modern healthcare innovation.
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
An NHS teaching hospital in the North of England is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with all interests considered. The oncology department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration or MRCP (UK) 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 GMC registration with a licence to practise and inclusion (or eligibility within 6 months) on the Specialist Register in Medical Oncology are required for this role. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Manage and treat patients with cancers as part of the site-specific MDTs.
-
Provide on-call and acute cover for oncology inpatients and new inpatient referrals on a rotational basis (1 week out of 8).
-
Attend weekly multi-disciplinary meetings.
-
Hold an honorary lecturer position at a local medical school and participate in undergraduate teaching.
-
Participate in clinical research as appropriate.
-
Train and teach specialty trainees in medical oncology.
LIFE IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND
This role is based in the North of England, a region that offers the perfect balance of urban convenience and rural charm. Residents can enjoy city living in York 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 countryside on its doorstep, the North of England 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
-
Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
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