Job overview
We have an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic individual to join our busy Blood Sciences Specimen Reception team as a Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) on a fixed-term basis.
This vital role involves the accurate receipting, sorting, and processing of patient samples prior to laboratory analysis. The Specimen Reception team supports the entire Pathology service, ensuring samples are appropriately distributed to the correct disciplines and patient data is accurately entered into the laboratory information system (Winpath).
You will need to demonstrate:
- A strong work ethic and attention to detail
- Good IT and communication skills
- The ability to work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
In return, we offer a supportive and inclusive working environment, access to comprehensive training, and opportunities for career development within our Trust.
Working Pattern:
Participation in a 24/7 shift rota is required, including evenings, nights, weekends, and bank holidays.
Cross-site working is expected and there will be planned rotation between sites.
Please be aware that we may close this advert early should we receive a high volume of applications. Early applications are encouraged.
Main duties of the job
To work in a team of support staff playing a crucial role in the reception and preparation of patient samples and requests, to facilitate the provision of a quality and timely diagnostic and monitoring service essential for patient care. To supervise other staff in reception and provide training and support.
Working for our organisation
We’re an organisation that is getting better and betterand ourimprovements are driven by a determination to deliver care we’re proud of and our patients are happy with. We’re no longer in ; we’ve opened at our Elective Surgical Hub in King George Hospital (KGH); and, in recognition of our progress, we’ve been at the Health Service Journal Awards.
We operate from two main sites – KGH in Goodmayes and Queen’s Hospital in Romford. We have two busy emergency departments with more than 330,000 people visiting them last year. We’re campaigning to secure the £35m we need to and get rid of corridor care.
Our patients are benefitting from our in Ilford; an in Hornchurch; and Community Diagnostic Centres (CDC) at and at.
These CDCs are open 12 hours a day, 7 days a week and are providing an extra 94,000 scans a year.
The majority of our 8,000 staff – who come from 146 different countries - live in the three diverse London boroughs we serve and are from black, Asian and minority ethnic groups. Many can and more than 400 of them are on our Ofsted accredited. We’re proud to be a employer.
We’re looking forward to introducing an electronic patient record that will be transformative for our staff and beneficial for our patients.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
For further information on this role, please see the attached detailed Job Description and Person Specification.
The person specification listed below is not the full specification requirements for the role. Please ensure you review the full specification on the job description prior to submitting your application.
Applicants are advised to read all the information on the advert and the supporting information before completing and submitting an application. As you complete your application please ensure you clearly demonstrate how you meet the criteria in the person specification for this post by adequately completing the supporting information section of the application form.
All new staff appointed at the Trust are subject to a probationary period.
Person specification
Education/Qualifications
Essential criteria
1. GCSE or equivalent in Mathematics and English
Skills/Abilities
Essential criteria
2. Keyboard skills - able to type accurately and quickly
3. Good communication skills.
Desirable criteria
4. The ability to diplomatically deal with users and other Trust staff
Experience/Knowledge
Desirable criteria
5. Previous experience
Personal Qualities
Desirable criteria
6. An appreciation of Health & Safety issues