Find More Than 10K+
United Kingdom Jobs

UKHSA has commissioned its Microbiology service for the Yorkshire & the Humber region from Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (LTHT). The LTHT Microbiology Department is one of the largest in the country and provides comprehensive microbiology, mycology and virology services to the health communities of Leeds and Bradford. It provides a number of highly specialised services on a regional and national basis. The Leeds Regional Laboratory is also the national laboratory for the Clostridium difficile Ribotyping Network (CDRN) and UKHSA funds this service. In addition, UKHSA plans to deploy new technologies and services, such as Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to the Clostridium difficile services.

As a UKHSA-employed HSSW you will be expected to assist Biomedical and Clinical Scientists deliver UKHSA services, particularly laboratory-based surveillance activities in conjunction with the Yorkshire & Humber Field Epidemiology service but potentially also genotyping, surveillance work and research projects. This may include the need to operate new technologies, such as NGS equipment.

You would need to deal with routine enquiries in a pleasant and helpful manner communicating information to stakeholders, referring to others as appropriate.

You would need to answer telephone calls, taking messages and passing on accurately to the relevant departments/person. Supporting the monitoring of general office and laboratory supplies.

Post holder must have a standard level of keyboard skills and able to use Microsoft Office programmes. Inputting into, monitoring and printing reports from computerised systems if required. You would be expected to demonstrate systems and department requirements to new starters.

You would need to have a flexible/adaptable approach to work in order to meet various deadlines.

Applicants must be aware that this job could involve frequent exposure to unpleasant bodily fluids including sputum, faeces, blood etc, and to micro-organisms which have the potential to cause disease.

Responsibilities section:

• As the Healthcare Scientist Support Worker your main responsibilities will include:
• Sample receipt and handing.
• Sample preparation and reagent preparation following protocols.
• Clerical duties, including use of computers, and data entry, telephone enquiries.
• Provision of results to wards, GP's and other hospitals as directed by senior colleagues
• Dealing with visitors and deliveries.
• Monitor and maintain appropriate stock levels, receipt of deliveries and preparation of orders.
• Cleaning and disinfection of equipment and laboratory areas.
• Monitoring and routine maintenance of equipment.
• Perform manual, semi-automated and automated tests according to protocols.
• Disposal of patient samples in accordance with relevant guidelines
• Autoclaving of waste material and patient samples (involves moderate lifting).
• Work in a safe manner in accordance with Laboratory Health and Safety policies and procedures.
• Processing specimens, sub culturing of specimens, cleaning and maintenance of equipment, assisting Biomedical and Clinical Scientists in analytical techniques, and use of automated equipment.

We are looking for a Healthcare Scientist 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

• 
  GCSE or Equivalent incl. Mathematics, English language and at least one Science grade C or above
• Educated to NVQ 2 level in a relevant subject or equivalent level of qualification or significant equivalent previous proven experience.
• Previous experience of working in a microbiology laboratory
• Experience of laboratory testing systems
• Experience of working in a health care environment
• Knowledge and understanding of laboratory safety requirements and procedures.
• Well-developed physical skills, especially in the manipulation of pipettes and other laboratory equipment. Also, must be adept and precise when handling samples etc.
• Previous experience of working using computerised data systems.
• Clear communicator with good writing, data entry and telephone skills ensuring accuracy.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Problem solving skills.
• Able to liaise with colleagues across departments within UKHSA and work across organisational boundaries.
• Ability to communicate complex information both written and oral, clearly, and concisely.
• Understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships
• An ability to maintain confidentiality and trust.
• Good time keeping
• Flexible approach to work
• Ability to follow written protocol.
• Demonstrate a high level of motivation and commitment to high standards.

Desirable

• Educated to A Level/NVQ Level 3 standard or equivalent with additional theoretical knowledge equivalent to Diploma level or above.
• Degree in a relevant biological science
• Previous experience of working for UKHSA or in a Public Health Microbiology laboratory service
• Understanding of quality management systems, especially in relation to UKAS Accreditation
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office including Word and Excel
• Knowledge of UKHSA & NHS issues
• Understanding of Data Protection legislation
• Problem solving skills.
• Able to liaise with colleagues across departments within UKHSA and work across organisational boundaries.
• Ability to communicate complex information both written and oral, clearly, and concisely.
• Able to work on own initiative, organising and prioritising own workload to set deadlines.

• Learning and development tailored to your role
• An environment with flexible working options
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
• A Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 27%

Job contact :

Name :
Janisha Chauhan
Email :
[email protected]

Recruitment team :

Email :
[email protected]