Job summary
This is an exciting opportunity to join one of the largest microbiology departments in England as an AO grade Healthcare Scientific Support Worker/Medical Laboratory Assistant. The Manchester Medical Microbiology Partnership (MMMP) is a collaboration between UKHSA and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust. The microbiology partnership provides comprehensive routine services and specialist services to a wide range of hospitals across the North West and beyond and also assists in any UKHSA co-ordinated responses or activity of a national/international nature, Bioterrorism incident or major disease enteric outbreaks, COVID19, SARS.
The department employs around 130 staff and has a workload in excess of million specimens covering major clinical specialties including respiratory medicine, transplantation, burns, renal medicine, urology & paediatrics. The department embraces all aspects of a modern clinical bacteriology service combining traditional methodologies with laboratory automation.
The post holder will act as a laboratory assistant to provide support to the scientific team providing services to patients and clients as an aid to clinical diagnosis.
Location
You will be expected to work hours, flexible between the hours of 8am - 8pm Monday to Sunday � this will be a laboratory based role located at Manchester University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, M13 9WL.
*Please be aware that this role can only be worked from within the UK and not overseas. Relocation expenses are not available.*
Working Pattern � Full Time, Part Time, Job Share, Flexible Working
Job description
As the Healthcare Scientific Support Worker/Medical Laboratory Assistant your main responsibilities will include:
1. Working as part of Laboratory Team
2. Rotate through various managed units within Microbiology
3. Sample receipt and handing.
4. Sample preparation and reagent preparation following protocols.
5. Clerical duties, including use of computers, and data entry, telephone enquiries.
6. Provide results service to wards, GPs and other hospitals
7. Dealing with patients, visitors and deliveries.
8. Monitor and maintain appropriate stock levels, receipt of deliveries and preparation of orders.
9. Cleaning and disinfection of equipment and laboratory areas.
10. Monitoring and routine maintenance of equipment.
11. Perform manual, semi-automated and automated tests according to protocols.
12. Disposal of patient samples in accordance with relevant guidelines
13. Autoclaving of waste material and patient samples (involves moderate lifting).
14. Work in a safe manner in accordance with Laboratory Health and Safety policies and procedures.
15. Processing specimens, sub culturing of specimens, cleaning and maintenance of equipment, assisting BMS staff in analytical techniques, and use of automated equipment within Containment Level 3 laboratory.
The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The Job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary. Please see the job description for the full list of duties and responsibilities.�
Person specification
We are looking for an exceptional Healthcare Scientific Support Worker
It is important through your application and Statement of Suitability of 1250 words that you give evidence and examples of proven experience of each of the following criteria:
Essential
16. GCSE or Equivalent
17. Previously worked in a laboratory
18. Experience of working in a health care environment
19. Clear communicator with good writing, data entry and telephone skills ensuring accuracy.
20. Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
21. Problem solving skills.
22. Able to work on own initiative, organising and prioritising own workload to set deadlines.
23. An ability to maintain confidentiality and trust.
24. Good time keeping.
25. Flexible approach to work.
26. Ability to follow written protocols.
Desirable
27. Evidence of ongoing training and development.
Benefits
28. Learning and development tailored to your role
29. An environment with flexible working options
30. A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
31. A Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 27%
32. Range of health and wellbeing support
Any move to UKHSA from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at