Job responsibilities
Under the supervision of a State Registered Biomedical Scientist:
- To receive, sort, unpack, label and process specimens in the laboratory.
- To understand the use of the laboratory information system (LIMS) and undertake data entry e.g. for samples received and referred.
- To electronically request and receive tests and look up results etc.
- To solve minor problems with mislabelled or mislaid samples and to generate worksheets.
- Collect and transfer laboratory consumables and samples to and from delivery points, storage areas and workstations.
- To accurately prepare samples for analysis.
- To assist with the setting up of automated and semi-automated tests.
- To follow various technical procedures e.g. Preparation of specimens Serological and Molecular techniques
- To maintain a high standard of competence in the performance of all tests appropriate to grade and investigations carried out in that area, following appropriate training.
- To perform technical work under the supervision of a BMS.
- To ensure important or unusual results are drawn to the attention of senior staff and to report complaints or anomalies as soon as possible.
- To use equipment in a safe and responsible manner.
- To perform general laboratory duties e.g. checking and cleaning instruments/equipment, recording temperatures, preparing reagents and assistance with stock control.
- To perform general clerical duties e.g. photocopying, filing, telephone answering, dealing with queries from clients, customers and other NHS staff and to undertake data entry.
- Assist in the training of other HSSW staff.
- To rotate through all relevant sections of the department as directed.
- To respond to changes in laboratory protocols as directed.
- To work in a conscientious and responsible manner ensuring care and accuracy.
- To cover the duties of other HSSW staff in their absence where possible.
- To receive goods and supplies into the laboratory.
- To help prepare and dispatch items/samples for referral, transport and posting.
- To issue specimen collection kits, containers and reagents to appropriate areas.
- To undertake sterilisation and disposal of laboratory waste including collection of discard and waste material, transfer of laboratory waste to designated collection/disposal areas.
- To undertake any reasonable task delegated by a senior member of staff.
Please see the job description for the full list of duties and responsibilities.
Essential role criteria
- GCSE or O level in Maths, English and Sciences (Grade C or above) or equivalent, or relevant experience within a lab based environment
- Basic knowledge of health and safety and safe working practices
- Previous experience of using computerised data systems, and working knowledge of Microsoft Office including Word and Excel.
- Clear communicator with good writing, data entry and telephone skills ensuring accuracy and attention to detail
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Problem solving skills
- Able to work on own initiative, organising and prioritising own workload to set deadlines
- An understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships, both in terms of day-to-day working practices, but also in relation to management systems
Selection Process
This vacancy will be assessed using a competency-based framework which will assess your qualifications, knowledge and experience and / or skills and abilities outlined in the essential criteria.
Stage 1: Application & Sift
You will be required to complete an application form. You will be assessed on the listed essential criteria that have been selected from the job description, and this will be in the form of a:
- Application form (Employer/ Activity history section on the application)
- 500 word Statement of Suitability.
This should outline how your skills, experience, and knowledge, provide evidence of your suitability for the role, with reference to the essential criteria.
The Application form and Statement of Suitability will be marked together.
Longlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we will longlist into 3 piles of:
- Meets all essential criteria
- Meets some essential criteria
- Meets no essential criteria
Only those meeting all essential criteria will be taken through to shortlisting.
Shortlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we will shortlist on:
- GCSE or O level in Maths, English and Sciences (Grade C or above) or equivalent, or relevant experience within a lab based environment
- Basic knowledge of health and safety and safe working practices
- Previous experience of using computerised data systems, and working knowledge of Microsoft Office including Word and Excel.
If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to interview and assessment.
Please do not exceed 500 words. We will not consider any words over and above this number.
Please note you will not be able to upload your CV. You must complete the application form in as much detail as possible. Please do not email us your CV.
Feedback will not be provided at this stage.
Stage 2: Interview
You will be invited to a face to face interview. In exceptional circumstances, we may be able to offer a remote interview.
Knowledge, experience, skills and abilities will be tested at interview.
You will be asked to prepare and present a 510 minute presentation. The subject of this will be sent to you prior to interview.
Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.
Location:
This role is being offered as lab based at UKHSA Bristol, Southmead Hospital, BS10 5NB. Please note that hybrid working is not available for this role.
Eligibility Criteria
Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including by definition internal applicants).
Security Clearance Level Requirement
Successful candidates must pass a disclosure and barring security check.
Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is Counter-terrorist Check.
For meaningful National Security Vetting checks to be carried out individuals need to have lived in the UK for a sufficient period of time. You should normally have been resident in the United Kingdom for the last 3 years as the role requires Counter Terrorism Check (CTC) clearance.
UK residency less than the outlined periods may not necessarily bar you from gaining national security vetting and applicants should contact the Vacancy Holder / Recruiting Manager listed in the advert for further advice.
