Job summary
The Wheelchair Hub in Hounslow is seeking an experienced engineer / technician to join our established team for this position. You will work alongside a team conducting repairs and handovers of NHS wheelchairs as well as assisting in the management of our in-house Workshop, Warehouse and Stores.
The Band 4 Rehabilitation Engineer / Wheelchair Technician position is a varied and vital role for a knowledgeable engineer with experience of people management, and a flare for problem solving and organisation. Whilst experience of working with wheelchairs or other medical devices is desirable, it is not essential as we can help you to gain specialist knowledge.
We offer an integrated wheelchair service, providing an end-to-end service for the long-term loan of NHS wheelchairs to clients with all levels of disability impacting their mobility and independence. The service encompasses clinical, engineering, repairs, stores and administrative activity based covering the borough of Hounslow.
Main duties of the job
This post will be based in the purpose designed premises, combining all functions of the wheelchair hub under one roof. You will work as part of the vibrant, integrated and supportive team of technicians working alongside administrators, therapists, and engineers. You will also have the opportunity to work in the community of Hounslow, providing high quality services to service users.
We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly motivated technician to join the established team.
You will be an essential part of the running of the wheelchair hub technical services, managing the repairs and maintenance, stores and workshop.
You will have experience and an organised approach to technical and asset management duties. You will demonstrate accuracy and be methodical in data entry in IT systems and our bespoke Data Base system (BEST).
You will have excellent interpersonal skills, working with colleagues and co-ordinating services to deliver high quality, client-centered care. Supporting the service delivery 8am-5pm Monday -Friday. Will have On-call responsibilities on a rota basis.
You will demonstrate enthusiasm and be keen to learn, delivering continual improvement within the service. You will develop your skills in line with technical competencies, with access to clinical and administrative support to help you understand the workings of the service. You will be well supported by the Rehabilitation Engineer, Clinical Specialist and clinical services manager.
About us
West London NHS Trust is one of the most diverse healthcare providers in the UK, delivering a range of mental health and physical healthcare and community services. The Trust runs Broadmoor Hospital, one of three high secure hospitals in the country, with an international high secure services care for patients from South of England and we provide low and medium secure services across eight London boroughs. The Trust also provides mental and physical healthcare in three London boroughs (Ealing, Hounslow and Hammersmith & Fulham). We employ 4,500 staff, of whom 56% are BME. Our turnover for 2023-24 is £ Trust is rated as 'Good' overall by the Care Quality Commission. Forensic services are rated as 'Outstanding'.The Trust is an established partner and contributor in the development of the evolving North West London Integrated Care System and the Integrated Care Board. The Trust leads the NW London Children and Adolescent Mental Health provider collaborative.
Job description
Job responsibilities
The Candidate Pack provides an overview of the key tasks and responsibilities of the role, and the person specification outlines the qualifications, skills, experience and knowledge required. Please view as person specification below is not the full person specification, but outlines the criteria against which your application form will be assessed.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
1. City & Guilds Full Technical Certificate, HNC or HND or equivalent in an appropriate engineering discipline or equivalent work-based experience
Desirable
2. Knowledge and experience of adjustment and repair of wheelchairs
Experience
Essential
3. Demonstrable Experience working with people, using effective communication
4. Demonstrable technical ability
5. Practical with an ability to problem solve and use initiative
Desirable
6. Experience of working as wheelchair technician and/ or mechanical engineering experience
7. Experience using stock control systems
8. Experience working with people with disabilities
9. Experience of using Database software
10. Experience of making / fitting / building
Knowledge
Essential
11. Knowledge of working with hand and power tools and fittings
Desirable
12. Knowledge of materials
13. Knowledge of working with wheelchairs
Skills
Essential
14. Effective communication: spoken and written
15. Ability to demonstrate tact, diplomacy and empathy when working with patients, relatives and carers
16. Excellent administrative and organisational skills
17. Proficient IT skills using Microsoft Office software packages
18. Ability to work as part of a team
19. Ability to work independently
Other Requirements
Essential
20. Required to be cleared by the DBS for working with children and disabled persons
21. Car driver and UK licence holder