Medical Laboratory Assistant

• The postholder will assist in the preparation of analytical work for the Bacteriology Department across a range of department work areas under the supervision of a Registered Biomedical Scientist.
• The postholder is required to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) at all times for any tasks carried out. There is a requirement to communicate with pathology staff, hospital staff, porters, drivers and couriers.
• The postholder will provide support to the BMS staff through sorting, numbering and entering onto Laboratory Information Management System.
• The postholder will be required to operate the department waste disposal systems including use of autoclaves in a safe manner.
• The diagnostic work of the department includes processing, for example, blood, cerebrospinal fluid, urine, faeces, sputum, tissues and diverse secretions.
• Processed samples are then interpreted for the presence of pathogens, these could be bacterial, fungal or parasitic.

• To keep the laboratory manager informed of all matters regarding laboratory procedures and help with the smooth running of the department.
• To inform a team leader, section head or Biomedical Scientist of any refrigerator/freezer temperatures that are out of range on a daily basis.
• Displays and maintains an appropriate level of IT skills.
• Is able to input patient and request data, maintain and amend patient records, interrogate the laboratory and hospital databases and perform basic word processing and spreadsheet work.
• Demonstrates excellent personal communication and team working skills.
• To work to achieve competencies across the repertoire of the department as appropriate to grade.
• To assist in the departmental work as instructed, following SOPs under the supervision of the laboratory managers, team leaders and / or Biomedical Scientist staff.
• Refer to attached JD & PS for details.

Essential

• Able to perform technically challenging procedures where applicable
• Ability to develop knowledge and understanding of microbiology techniques sufficient to undertake specimen processing and reception

Essential

• Able to understand and follow Standard Operating Procedures
• Ability to follow laboratory H&S practice
• Ability to communicate clearly
• Possess basic IT skills

Desirable

• Understanding of need for service quality
• Experience of working in a relevant routine laboratory
• Observant of detail, ability to make basic judgement decisions
• Ability to prioritise tasks and organise daily work