Job Overview
Applications are invited from enthusiastic, motivated, and hardworking individuals for the Medical Laboratory Assistant jobs within Microbiology in Pathology at North Tyneside General Hospital. MLAs are the first point of contact for the laboratory, requiring a friendly, approachable personality and excellent communication skills. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to follow defined protocols under pressure are essential.
Main Duties of the Job
The responsibilities include:
- Supporting scientific staff with receipt, analytical preparation, labeling, and data entry of patient samples and requests.
- Maintaining and performing quality control of specialised analysers and technical equipment.
- Carrying out general laboratory support duties.
- Performing clerical tasks, including data input of patient demographics and test request information.
- Assisting with general housekeeping tasks, such as maintaining stock levels, cleaning, and waste disposal.
- Ensuring adherence to health and safety policies when handling biological samples and hazardous materials.
Previous experience in an NHS clinical laboratory is advantageous but not essential, as full training will be provided. The Microbiology department operates a 24/7 service provision.
Working for the Organisation
Northumbria Healthcare operates across three major hospitals—North Tyneside, Wansbeck, and Hexham—and smaller community hospitals and clinics. The trust also runs the Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital, the first of its kind in England. Services extend to local communities and individuals’ homes, prioritising high-quality patient care and exceptional service delivery.
The organisation is highly innovative, with extensive patient experience programmes and a focus on healthcare improvement through initiatives like the Northumbria Healthcare Manufacturing and Innovation Hub.
Detailed Job Description and Responsibilities
The role involves:
- Performing sample reception, processing, and archiving.
- Handling manual and automated sample processing using analysers and other equipment.
- Disposing of waste materials appropriately.
- Maintaining a professional image in all activities.
- Adhering to departmental health and safety policies.
The position involves handling biological samples, including blood, urine, and tissues, and exposure to hazardous chemicals. Responsibilities must be conducted within the defined field of competence.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential Criteria
- Good basic literacy and numeracy skills.
Desirable Criteria
- ECDL certification.
Commitment to Equality and Inclusion
Applications are encouraged from candidates of all backgrounds, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates, LGBT+ individuals, and candidates with disabilities. As a Disability Confident Employer and a Stonewall Diversity Champion, Northumbria Healthcare supports equality and inclusion in the workplace.
Reasonable adjustments for interviews are available upon request. Applicants under the Fit and Proper Person Requirements (FPPR) will undergo additional pre-employment checks.
Additional Information
Successful applicants must cover the cost of their own DBS certification, which will be deducted from the first monthly salary.
Contact the HR Recruitment Team on 0191 203 1415 for further information.
Application Deadline: Midnight, 6th December 2024
Qualified and ready to apply? Click the APPLY NOW button below.
