Apprentice/Trainee Mechanical Workshop Technician (Annex 21 Band 4)

Job summary

This is an exciting opportunity for a keen learner to develop and apply their skills to benefit NHS service users across South Wales as part of a team designing and manufacturing bespoke assistive devices within an innovative and forward-thinking environment.

The Artificial Limb and Appliance Service (ALAS) delivers a range of specialised clinical services, in particular, the assessment of people's needs and the prescription and provision of bespoke assistive technology to meet those needs. ALAS supports an active research, development and innovation programme in partnership with local universities and private companies and has a very supportive approach to both the personal and the continuing professional development of staff.

Based in the Design & Manufacture Team hosted by the Rehabilitation Engineering Unit within ALAS, the post-holder will have the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills in support of a range of ALAS services providing clinical engineering solutions to meet the complex needs of people with long term conditions, in particular, prosthetic limbs, specialist wheelchairs and bespoke accessories.

The ability to speak Welsh is desirable for this post; English and/or Welsh speakers are equally welcome to apply.

Main duties of the job

For the most part, the post-holder will contribute towards the fabrication, maintenance, repair and decommissioning of specialised equipment to meet the complex needs of severely disabled patients/service users. This work will involve supervised use of a wide range of tools and fabrication techniques under the direction of the Design and Manufacture Team Leader (and other qualified and experienced staff as appropriate) to manufacture devices and components to written specification and/or technical drawings to meet individual patient needs within the framework of the directorate's quality system (ISO13485) and relevant legislation (i.e. the UK Medical Device Regulations).

The ideal candidates should demonstrate both the enthusiasm and aptitude for: developing and applying their practical skills in fabrication, assembly and servicing of devices; developing and applying their knowledge of design and manufacture (including risk management); and working closely with the public/patients. Appointment will be on the Agenda for Change Annex 21 training scale for a fixed term of two years with the opportunity to study part time for a suitable qualification (such as a HNC Mechanical Engineering).

About us

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board is one of the largest Integrated Health Boards in the UK, employing over 17,000 staff, providing over 100 specialist services. Working across 6 hospital sites, we have a diverse range of career opportunities to offer. Serving over 500,000 people living in Cardiff and the Vale, we are focussed on the health and care needs of our local population whilst working with our partners to develop regional services. Together we are committed to improving health outcomes for everyone, delivering excellent care and support.

Our mission is "Living Well, Caring Well, Working Together", and our vision is that every person's chance of leading a healthy life should be equal. Our 10-year transformation and improvement strategy, Shaping Our Future Wellbeing, is our chance to work collaboratively with the public and our workforce to make our health board more sustainable for the future.