Band 6 - Occupational Health Adviser, Occupational Health

Are you a passionate Occupational Health professional looking to make a real difference in a dynamic acute Trust?

We are looking for a full time Band 6 - Occupational Health Adviser to join our team.

As Trust of the Year 2025, we're entering an exciting new chapter, expanding our services and investing in modern technology to shape the future of healthcare.

This is a fantastic time to join our forward-thinking team and help shape a high-quality, modern Occupational Health service.

*Previous applicants need not apply*

Job description

Plan and carry out initial assessment for a range of clients using an evidence-based and client centred approach to practice following certain work-related accidents and work-related ill health.

Managing own caseload of management referrals for the purpose of sickness absence management through assessment and advising on an individuals fitness to work, rehabilitation and phased return to work programmes, ensuring that appropriate information is provided regarding the Equality Act (2010) including advice on reasonable adjustment to the workplace.

Undertake a range of routine occupational health screening tasks, collect, record and store data accurately.

Assess the need for further information from GP, specialist or previous employer, the need for pre-employment blood tests in accordance with Department of Health and UK Health Security Agency guidelines and gain the appropriate consent. Effectively communicate the staff member's rights under the Access to Medical Reports Act (1998).

Undertake workplace risk assessments, plan and manage work related health problems including making decisions about fitness to work and the need for restrictions or adjustments to the workplace.

About youWere looking for a motivated and compassionate practitioner who thrives in a busy, evolving environment.

Essential: Registered Nurse (NMC Part 1) Qualification in Occupational Health (degree or diploma) Experience in Occupational Health, including management referrals and case management Strong knowledge of health and safety legislation and workplace health risks Excellent communication and report-writing skillsDesirable: SCPHN (OH) registration NHS Occupational Health experience Experience in health promotion, audit or service improvementYoull be confident managing priorities, working independently, and using your judgement to deliver high-quality, person-centred care.

What we offerAt West Herts, were committed to supporting our people: Flexible working options and strong work-life balance Generous NHS pension and annual leave A wide range of wellbeing initiatives and staff support services Access to excellent training, development and career progression opportunities A supportive, inclusive culture where our values empowered, compassionate, professional and inclusive guide everything we do.

Person specification

Education and qualifications

Essential

• RN. Registration on Part 1 of NMC register
• Degree / Diploma in Occupational Health.
• Evidence of ongoing professional development.

Desirable

• Part 3 of NMC register - SCPHN -OH

Knowledge

Essential

• Good knowledge of immunisation schedules for healthcare workers
• Experience of immunisation
• Management of blood and body fluid exposures.
• Infection control issues relation to OH such as influenza, infectious disease, contact tracing
• Knowledge of attendance management policies.
• Basic counselling skills
• Case management
• Knowledge of legislation relating to Occupational Health, health and safety, and relevant aspects of employment law, with the ability to apply this in practice.

Desirable

• Experience of NHS Occupational Health Services.
• Knowledge of Health Promotion
• Knowledge of occupational diseases.
• Undertaking risk assessment
• Ability to present to large and small groups.
• Mental health knowledge.

Understanding NHS financial pressures associated with sickness absence and recruitment.

Experience

Essential

• Post-registration experience as a Registered Nurse, demonstrating continued professional development and application of clinical skills within practice.
• Experience working within an Occupational Health (OH) setting, with an understanding of the scope and function of Occupational Health services.
• Experience of undertaking management referrals, including assessing fitness for work, providing evidence-based advice, and producing clear and concise reports.
• Experience in delivering workplace immunisation and vaccination programmes, including risk assessment, administration, documentation, and follow-up, in line with current guidelines and best practice.
• Experience of working within an NHS Occupational Health department, demonstrating knowledge of NHS policies, procedures and workforce health requirements
• Experience of applying relevant frameworks and guidance, including those from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), UK Health Security Agency and other relevant external bodies.
• Experience of multidisciplinary working, liaising effectively with managers, HR, infection prevention teams and external stakeholders to support employee health and wellbeing.
• Experience supporting health promotion and wellbeing initiatives within the workplace.

Desirable

• Experience of working in NHS OH department.
• Understanding of framework related to Health and Safety Executive, Public Health England and other external bodies.

About the employer

With a new hospital planned for Watford, work underway to update theatres at St Albans City Hospital and plans for a neighbourhood healthcare centre in Hemel Hempstead, this is an exciting time to join us. We are building on the success of our award-winning virtual hospital and re-imagining models of care, working closely with partners and making the most of advances in digital healthcare. Staff wellbeing and development are a priority, as is the role of innovation in improving clinical care, outcomes and patient experience. Our vision is Excellent patient care, together and our values are to be empowered, compassionate, professional and inclusive. They capture an important balance across what we must all do as individuals and to support others. We offer a variety of flexible working options as we recognise the importance of a good work life balance.www.westhertshospitals.nhs.uk/flexibleworking If you have a disability or long-term health condition and require support or guidance please [email protected] If you are a Service Leaver, Veteran, Military Reserve, Cadet Force Adult Volunteer, or partner/spouse of those serving please tick "Member of the Armed Forces Community" on the application form. We reserve the right to close this advert early due to the volume of applicants. Please apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.