Job overview
We are looking for an enthusiastic, motivated Radiographer to undertake training to become a Sonographer by successfully completing the Post Graduate Diploma in Medical Ultrasound.
We would expect you to have 2 years post-graduate NHS experience and to have spent some time in an ultrasound department.
You must have a real desire to train in this area, fully understand the role of a Sonographer and demonstrate commitment to the work involved. You will have excellent communication skills and be able to demonstrate that you provide a high-quality service.
Practical training will be undertaken in our ultrasound department under the supervision of our Sonographers and Radiologists. The academic modules will be delivered by the University of the West of England in Bristol and will start in January 2026.
This is a fixed term post for 2 years. Trainee Sonographer: Band 7 Annex U (70% of max band 7 salary in year 1 and 75% in year 2 of training)
Main duties of the job
During training the trainee will be expected to communicate effectively with patients, eliciting and discussing their clinical history and concerns, explaining the purpose and process of the scan, encouraging and supporting them during ultrasound examinations. Maintain professional standards, demonstrate Trust values and employ best practice to provide a high quality and safe Ultrasound Service. To be proactive in your own training and development, keep all essential University documentation up-to-date and strive for continuous progress improvement based on structured constructive feedback.
The Trainee Sonographer will be expected to undertake an accredited Ultrasound Course and obtain a Post Graduate Diploma in Medical Ultrasound. The theoretical component will be University based, and the practical training will be delivered locally. The student will be expected to commute to the University to attend lectures, although some training can be accessed remotely. Travel and overnight expenses will be supported
The student will be given the opportunity to gain experience in a wide range of examinations (general abdominal, obstetric and gynaecological) to support the studied modules.. This will continue until an appropriate qualification has been obtained (PG Certificate/PG Diploma in Medical Ultrasound). The student will then participate in the departmental preceptorship scheme to support their transition into autonomous practice.
Working for our organisation
Dorset County Hospital is a busy modern district general hospital situated in the vibrant county town of Dorchester, only 7 miles from the Jurassic coast. The Trust is the main provider of acute hospital services to a population of around 250,000 people, living within Weymouth, Portland, West Dorset, North Dorset and Purbeck. The Trust has recently secured funding for a new Emergency department and critical care unit to be built in 2026.
The Radiology department achieved Quality Standards for Imaging (QSI) accreditation in 2020 and became one of the first NHS Trusts in the country to achieve the new 2021 standards set by UKAS. We maintained our accreditation following our assessment in 2025.
The hospital had good rail links to Southampton, Bristol and London and has outstanding nurseries and schools. Dorchester has undergone significant investment and redevelopment in the Brewery Square area and Poundbury, providing new shops, bars and restaurants and residential property.
Dorset offers a brilliant work life balance and it is a great place for families. There is the choice of coast or country for leisure activities such as water sports, wild swimming, coastal walking, horse riding, festivals and historic and cultural towns.
We understand that some applicants may choose to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in preparing their application materials. While this is not discouraged, we kindly remind candidates that all submissions must be truthful and accurately reflect your own experiences and suitability for this role.
Personal integrity and authenticity are central to our recruitment process. We value honesty and appreciate applications that are genuine and representative of the individual behind them.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Our DCHFT Job Description and Person Specification (attached) tells you all about this role, what to expect and what is needed to succeed. When completing your application please make sure to tell us how your experience and skills fit the person specification.
Person specification
KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
Essential criteria
* Minimum of 2 years post graduate NHS clinical experience
* Evidence of continuous professional development
* Evidence of effective communication skills
EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS & TRAINING
Essential criteria
* HCPC registration or equivalent
* BSc Radiography, or equivalent qualification
SKILLS & ABILITIES
Essential criteria
* An understanding of the use of ultrasound as a diagnostic tool and its place in the patient pathway
* Evidence of technical skills, hand eye co-ordination and image interpretation.
* Evidence of the ability to undertake academic training to post graduate Diploma level in ultrasound
* An understanding of the responsibilities of clinical practice as a Sonographer
Our Mission
Outstanding care for people in ways which matter to them.
Our Vision
Dorset County Hospital, working with our health and social care partners, will be at the heart of improving the well-being of our communities.
Our Values
Integrity, Respect, Teamwork, Excellence
We are a Trust that celebrates diversity and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We would welcome applications from people in all under-represented groups.
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT INFORMATION CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
Please read the job description and person specification carefully to ensure your application reflects the knowledge, skills and experience required.
The closing date/interview date is subject to amendment; this vacancy may therefore expire at short notice, so we recommend that you submit an application at your earliest convenience. We reserve the right to close any vacancies without notice.
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted via email; therefore it is important that you check your personal email account regularly.
Unfortunately we are unable to respond to every application; if we do not contact you within 4 weeks of the closing date, please be advised that you not have been shortlisted on this occasion.
You can contact us on 01305 254655 to find out whether you have been shortlisted or if you would like feedback.