Medical Laboratory Assistant – Specimen Reception
University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust (279) – St Richard's Hospital, Chichester.
Closing date: 04 February 2026.
Overview
The Pathology Support Service at University Hospitals Sussex is recruiting a focused and methodical Medical Laboratory Assistant to join the Specimen Reception team at St Richard's Hospital. The role supports pre‑ and post‑analytical activities for the Blood Science laboratory, ensuring efficient and accurate sample handling, data entry, and patient communication.
Key Responsibilities
* Pre‑analytical sample sorting, preparation, and data entry onto laboratory systems (ICE, WinPath, and Pathology IT).
* Receipt of stock, processing of consumable requests, and maintaining accurate inventory records.
* Adhering to health & safety and patient confidentiality protocols.
* Responding to telephone queries from service users and coordinating with clinical staff.
* Providing support in the Pathology Office: interacting with patients, booking appointments, and liaising with relevant teams.
* Working flexibly within the 08:00–20:00 schedule, Monday to Sunday, with core hours 11:00–18:00 Monday to Friday and public holiday duties on rota basis.
Person Specification
* Education: GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics at grade C / Level 5 or above.
* Experience: Previous NHS service or laboratory experience; familiarity with ICE and WinPath systems preferred.
* Technical Skills: Proficient computer skills in data entry and word processing; knowledge of data protection, data quality, and patient confidentiality.
* Organisational Abilities: Effective time‑management and ability to handle changing priorities.
* Communication: Excellent written and spoken English; capability to interact professionally with patients and staff.
* Specialist Knowledge: Understanding of pre‑analytical processes in a pathology laboratory setting.
* Diversity & Inclusion: Evidence of championing diversity and undertaking development in equalities issues.
* Disability and Veteran Considerations: University Hospitals Sussex is a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and a Veteran Aware Trust. We provide a buddy system for new employees to aid settlement.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
* Evidence of championing diversity in previous roles.
* Evidence of personal development to improve understanding of equalities issues.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. A DBS check will be required to assess any prior criminal convictions.
Visa Sponsorship
This role does not meet the minimum criteria for UK visa sponsorship. Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK (e.g., British citizenship, settled status, or permanent residency). If you are on a Graduate visa, you must have a minimum of 18 months remaining on your visa at the time of application.
Employer Name
University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust (279)
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