HSE Ireland - Doctor's pay scales explained
- September 13, 2024
If you're an international doctor considering a career in Ireland, it's essential to understand the HSE doctor pay scales. For overseas doctors, the pay structure within Ireland's Health Service Executive (HSE) can appear complex at first, but knowing how it works is key to planning your move.
Doctors working for the HSE in Ireland benefit from competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits. So, for international medical graduates, understanding the various pay scales, from junior doctors to consultants, is crucial in making informed career decisions.
In this guide, we’ll break down the different HSE pay grades and explain how they relate to doctor salaries in Ireland, so you can better understand your earning potential as a doctor within the Irish healthcare system.
What We’ll Cover:
- Junior Doctor Pay (Interns and SHOs)
- Registrar Salary
- Consultant Pay
- How Pay Scales Work in the HSE
- Additional Pay, Benefits, and Overtime
- Comparing HSE Ireland to the NHS in the UK
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Junior Doctor Pay in Ireland
Junior doctors, often called interns or Senior House Officers (SHOs), start their careers with a salary ranging from €43,766 to €70,543, depending on experience and additional responsibilities.
- Foundation Year (Intern): Starting salary of around €43,766
- Senior House Officer (SHO): €51,578 to €70,543
As a junior doctor, you are also compensated for any additional hours worked, including weekend shifts, on-call duties, and night shifts. These enhancements ensure that junior doctors are fairly compensated for the demanding nature of their work.
Registrar Pay in the HSE
Registrars, who are often mid-career doctors undergoing specialty training, can expect to earn between €65,554 and €77,197 annually. Registrars play a critical role in the hospital setting, often supervising junior doctors and making more autonomous medical decisions.
- Basic salary for registrars: starts at €65,554 to €77,197
- With overtime, on-call, and weekend shifts, registrars can earn significantly more.
Consultant Pay in Ireland
Consultants are the most senior doctors in the HSE, and their salaries reflect their high level of responsibility and expertise. A consultant’s salary can range from €222,215 to €266,925.
- Starting salary: Around €222,215. to €266,925
- Consultants with additional responsibilities, such as management roles or educational duties, can earn significantly more.
Consultants may also receive additional pay for on-call duties and overtime work. Furthermore, some consultants may supplement their income by working in private practice, further boosting their overall earnings.
How Do HSE Pay Scales Work?
Several factors influence how you are placed on the HSE pay scale:
- Job Title: Your role, whether you're a junior doctor, registrar, senior registrar, or consultant, determines your starting point on the scale.
- Experience: More years of experience result in higher pay, regardless of whether this experience was gained in Ireland or abroad.
- Specialty: Some medical specialties, such as cardiology or oncology, may offer higher salaries due to their demand and complexity.
- Location: Pay rates can vary slightly depending on whether you work in a city hospital or a more rural setting.
Additional Pay, Benefits, and Overtime
Doctors in the HSE are entitled to a range of benefits, including:
- Overtime pay for working beyond regular hours.
- On-call allowances for being available outside of your standard working hours.
- Weekend and night shift allowances to compensate for unsociable working hours.
- Continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities.
- Access to a pension scheme, offering long-term financial security.
How HSE Pay Compares to the NHS in the UK
Many international doctors consider working in both the NHS (UK) and HSE Ireland. While both offer competitive pay, HSE doctor salaries tend to be higher at all levels compared to the NHS.
For example, an FY1 doctor in the NHS earns around £32,398, while an equivalent intern in Ireland starts at approximately €43,766. Pay scales for consultants and more senior roles are also higher when comparing the two systems, however both offer opportunities for additional pay based on experience and extra responsibilities.
Where Do You Fit on the HSE Pay Scale?
When considering where you fit on the HSE pay scale, there are key factors to keep in mind:
- Job Title: Your job title, such as junior doctor, registrar, or consultant, dictates your pay bracket.
- Experience: Years of experience in your specialty will determine your progression through the pay scale.
- Hours Worked: The more on-call hours, night shifts, and weekend work you do, the more you can expect to earn beyond your base salary.
Understanding the HSE doctor pay scales will help you make informed decisions about your career in Ireland. If you need further assistance or have any questions about pay negotiation, our IMG connect consultants are here to guide you through the process and ensure you receive the best possible offer.
Relevant Jobs
An NHS district general hospital in the South West of England is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in NET and HPB cancers. The Medical Oncology department comprises a team of 11 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors and specialist nurses.
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 NET and HPB cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Take ownership of site-specific oncology services, primarily in NET and HPB cancer.
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Participate in outpatient clinics, support patients undergoing day case treatments, and assist the Acute Oncology Service.
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Contribute to education and training of junior medical staff and engage in multidisciplinary team working.
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Participate in clinical governance, audits, and contribute to ongoing research and service development.
LIFE IN THE SOUTH WEST
This role is based in a beautiful coastal region in the South West, with access to popular towns and seaside resorts perfect for both urban and rural living. The area features excellent schools, well-connected transport options, and a wide range of outdoor activities from beach days to countryside walks. With its blend of natural beauty and cultural history, the region is a top choice for medical professionals relocating to the UK.
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HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
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CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
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Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
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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 district general hospital in the North of Scotland is looking for a Consultant Medical Oncologist with an interest in breast and upper GI cancers. The oncology department comprises a team of 7 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 or MRCP (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
MRCP, full GMC registration with specialist registration or within 6 months of CCT, along with broad experience in prescribing SACT, are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in breast and upper GI cancers should apply. The salary will be between £107,144 and £142,369 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Manage a subspecialty caseload in breast and upper GI, delivering high-quality care and treatment planning.
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Participate in MDT meetings, clinical governance, research and teaching activities.
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Contribute to acute oncology on-call cover and peripheral clinics across the region.
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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
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
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Provision of the Acute Internal Medicine service, including same day emergency care, inpatients on the AMU, and the Short Stay Unit
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Receiving referrals from primary care to provide clinical advice and triage for potential admissions
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Supervision of junior doctors and alternative workforce, including advice on treatment plans
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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