Job summary
The Microbiology Department has an exciting opportunity at Maidstone Hospital for someone interested in Biology/infectious diseases who enjoys practical science. The post is initially available for a fixed term of 18 months, working Wednesday to Friday with approximately 2 weekend shifts per month. You will be part of our team of laboratory assistants and Biomedical Scientists who process specimens to aid in the diagnosis of infectious diseases. This position does not automatically lead to a Biomedical Scientist role but offers valuable practical skills for progression or a rewarding career in its own right.
Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLA) support Biomedical Scientists in providing diagnostic and therapeutic services within the Microbiology department. Working under supervision and independently, responsibilities include:
1. Processing specimens in bacteriology, serology, enteric, and molecular sections.
2. Assisting in specimen reception, data entry, stock control, and waste disposal.
3. Handling specimens such as swabs, urine, feces, and blood.
Main duties of the job include:
* Rotating through all laboratory areas monthly, including specimen reception, data entry, stock control, waste disposal, specimen processing, use of automated analyzers, manual work with agar in petri dishes, training staff, and participating in quality management systems.
* Working according to prescribed Standard Operating Procedures and timelines once competencies are achieved in all areas, demonstrating the ability to multi-task.
See the attached job description for full details.
About us
Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust ranks among the top 10 NHS Trusts nationwide and was named the second-best Trust to work for in the South East in the 2023 NHS Staff Survey.
We are a large acute hospital trust in south-east England, providing general hospital and specialist services to around 600,000 residents in West Kent and East Sussex. Our dedicated team of over 8,000 staff offers specialised cancer services to over two million people through the Kent Oncology Centre.
Fordcombe Hospital, near Tunbridge Wells, became part of the Trust in October 2024. It specializes in planned care, offering two operating theatres, 28 inpatient and day-care beds, diagnostic services (X-ray, MRI, CT, endoscopy), and consultation/treatment rooms.
Flexible working? We support flexible working arrangements. Contact us to discuss adjusting your hours or other flexible options to suit your needs, our patients, and the Trust.
Joining us includes a comprehensive benefits package:
* At least 27 days of annual leave plus public/bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time staff).
* Membership in the NHS Pension Scheme, with a 20.6% employer contribution and life assurance benefits.
* Blue Light card eligibility.
* And more. Additional benefits are detailed in the benefits documents.
Date posted
02 May 2025
Pay scheme
Agenda for Change
Band
Band 3
Salary
£24,625 to £25,674 per annum (pro-rata)
Contract
Fixed term
Duration
18 months
Working pattern
Part-time
Reference number
359-7124484-T1
Job locations
Maidstone Hospital, Hermitage Lane, Maidstone, ME16 9QQ
Job description
The role involves processing specimens, supporting laboratory operations, and participating in quality assurance. Applicants should review the person specification and provide specific examples demonstrating how they meet these criteria. The role requires working according to SOPs and timelines, with the ability to multitask.
Note: Appointment is subject to a satisfactory DBS check at Standard Level. Successful applicants will complete a corporate trust induction after start. The post is part of the Kent and Medway Pathology Network, comprising seven laboratories across three services in four trusts.
Person Specification
Qualifications (Essential):
* 5 GCSEs including Maths and English
* A-Levels
Desirable:
* NVQ Level 3 in laboratory support
Skills (Essential):
* Typing speed >30wpm
* Basic computer skills
* Command of written and spoken English
* Numeracy skills
* Organisational skills
Experience/Knowledge (Essential):
* Previous laboratory practical experience (educational)
* Interest in science (reading, STEM ambassador)
* Teamwork experience
* Ability to work calmly and accurately under high workload
* Ability to follow instructions
Desirable:
* Knowledge of health and safety procedures/legislation
Disclosure and Barring Service Check: This role requires a DBS check at the appropriate level, in accordance with legal requirements.
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