Job overview
The Cellular Pathology Department is seeking applications for an enthusiastic and capable individual to join the team as a Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA).
Applications are invited from adaptable individuals who would enjoy working as part of a friendly team, providing the Histopathology service in this busy department.
Previous applicants need not apply.
Shortlisted candidates are encouraged to visit the department for an informal visit.
Main duties of the job
You will be involved in the day-to-day support work of the Histopathology laboratory, including data-entry, specimen reception, preparation of clinical specimens for biological testing, microtomy, maintenance of equipment and administrative duties relating to laboratory activities.
For this varied and interesting post, you will need to be numerate and will be able to work as part of a team, be able to demonstrate adaptability and initiative and have good communication and organisational skills.
Applicants are required to have good keyboard skills, and a working knowledge of pathology IT systems would be desirable, although full training will be provided. Ideally applicants should have histopathology laboratory experience.
The core working hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30am-17:00pm.
Working for our organisation
To find out more about what it is like to work for our Trust please visit the following link:
Our benefits
1. We offer a range of benefits to support our staff including:
2. Access to the NHS Pension Scheme, providing generous benefits upon retirement, as well as a lump sum and pension for dependants
3. 27 days holiday rising to 33 days (depending on NHS Trust service)
4. A generous relocation package of up to 30% of salary (capped at £18k) to support with relocation expenses for hard to fill positions where relocation would be an expectation to undertake the role fully. If you would like to discuss a potential relocation package, please speak to the recruiting department/manager at interview stage.
5. A variety of different types of paid and unpaid leave covering emergency and planned leave
6. Confidential advice and support on personal, work, family and relationship issues, 24/7, from our Employee Assistance Programme
7. NHS Car Lease scheme and Cycle to Work scheme
8. An extensive range of learning and development opportunities
9. Discounts on restaurants, getaways, shopping, motoring, cinema and finance from a range of providers
For further information on the fantastic range of benefits we offer please visit the Trust's dedicated Staff Benefits pages.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
A full description of the role is available in the attachment: job description.
Please note that if a high number of applications are received this advert may close early. You are advised to submit your application at the earliest opportunity.
Working for the Trust
Across our organisation, people are guided by values that were co-developed with staff: we are kind; we are open; and we pursue excellence.
Our values play into our ambition to develop a more diverse workforce, truly representative of our communities. We welcome applications from everyone, while working with our Staff Networks - including our Race Equality, LGBTQ+, Disability and Carers Networks - to increase the number of applications we receive from different backgrounds. If there is anything we can do to make our application process more accessible to you, please contact: .
As part of seeking to become more inclusive, we will consider requests for flexible working from the start of your employment. It may not be suitable for every role, but we will try and be supportive where we can. We would encourage you to speak to the recruiting manager named within this advert to discuss any requirements you may have.
Armed Forces Friendly Employer
We are holders of the Gold Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, which is helping actively promote SaBRE - Supporting Britain’s Reservists and Employers. This means that we have made a statement of intent to support all Defence personnel, including with applications for employment.
Person specification
Education, Qualifications and Training
Essential criteria
10. Educated to GCSE Level or equivalent. 4 GCSE’s including Maths and English at grade 4 (C) or above
Desirable criteria
11. Formal or vocational lab-based qualification e.g. IBMS Certificate of Achievement Part 1 or NVQ level 3 or equivalent in a science-related subject
Experience and Knowledge
Essential criteria
12. Experience of working in a Cellular Pathology or another pathology discipline, performing tests and maintaining equipment
13. Experience of using laboratory information systems
14. Experience of internal and external laboratory quality assurance methods
Skills & Attributes
Essential criteria
15. Good written and verbal communication skills
16. Problem solving skills
17. Attention to detail
18. Ability to organise and prioritise own workload
Aptitude & Personal Qualities
Essential criteria
19. Ability to work alone or as part of a team.
20. Methodical approach to work and an ability to remain calm under pressure
Values and Behaviours
Essential criteria
21. Ability to demonstrate our organisational values and behaviours.
Application numbers
Please note that if a high number of applications are received this advert may close early. You are advised to submit your application at the earliest opportunity.