Daily tasks include the sorting and processing of patient samples using manual and automated systems. Inputting patient and test data onto the laboratory computer system as well as answering telephone enquiries. The work requires the ability to perform a number of repetitive tasks to a high technical standard. We are looking for an enthusiastic, self‑motivated individual to join our friendly support team in the Microbiology department at the Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital. The duties will include receipt and handling of patient samples such as blood, urine, faeces, sputum, and tissues for routine testing and swabs for COVID testing. Full training will be provided but any previous laboratory experience will be an advantage. The post is full time (37.5h/w) and a flexible working approach will be required. The successful candidates will be required to work regularly during evenings and will participate in the weekend and Bank Holiday rotas.
Requirements
* Willingness to work towards IBMS support staff Certificate of Achievement part 1 or 2A levels including a science subject; Clear and accurate written communication.
* Able to manage priorities under pressure.
* Able to use a computer keyboard to an effective standard.
* Willing to adapt to the changing needs of the service including changing work patterns if required.
* Able to work well in a team and to be supportive of team members.
Desirable Criteria
* Experience within a laboratory or similar environment.
* Can demonstrate an understanding of the work undertaken within the Microbiology department.
About the Trust
At East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust, our vision is to be widely recognised for providing safe, personal and effective care. We currently provide high quality services and treat over 700,000 people across East Lancashire and the surrounding area. We employ over 8,000 staff, many of whom are internationally renowned and have won awards for their work.
On 1st April 2026, Pathology services for Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust, Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust will come together to form the Lancashire and South Cumbria Single Pathology Service. Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust will be the Lead Provider of the service and the employer of colleagues working within the service, across sites.
Equal Opportunities
The Trust is an equal opportunities employer, committed to improving the working lives of our staff and operates a 'Zero Tolerance' policy to aggression, violence, bullying and harassment. We welcome applications from everyone irrespective of ethnic origin, gender, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, disability or social background. We especially welcome applications from members of our black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities. Appointments will be made on merit.
Application Instructions
* Please note that the salary advertised is for full‑time hours. If this post is less than 37.5 hours per week, the salary will be pro‑rated. For posts on Agenda for Change pay‑scales, new entrants to the NHS will normally commence on the first pay point of the relevant band.
* This vacancy may close before the closing date if the recruiting manager deems sufficient applications have been received. Therefore it is advised to complete your application as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
* Please ensure you check the email account from which you apply regularly as we will use this to contact you regarding your application.
* Please note that shortlisting is completed anonymously with candidates being assessed against the essential criteria for the post. Therefore only applicants, who can clearly demonstrate how they meet our person specification criteria in their application, will be short‑listed.
Disclosure and Barring Scheme (DBS)
If the role you are applying for is identified as either controlled or regulated activity as defined in the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, any offer of employment is provisional upon a satisfactory DBS check being obtained. The healthcare sector is exempted from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. In line with other NHS organisations in the North West Region, the Trust is now passing the charge for undertaking a DBS check on to candidates in the event they are successfully appointed into the post for which they have applied. Candidates can choose whether to pay this over 1‑3 months as a deduction from the monthly salary. However, if you are applying for a post as a BANK worker, the payment must be made in full at the time of employment checks. By applying for this vacancy you are agreeing to this undertaking in the event you are successfully appointed. The cost of an Enhanced Disclosure will be £55.38 and for a Standard Disclosure will be £27.38.
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