Anatomical Pathology Technician (APT)

Job overview

Mortuary Services at the Whittington hospital incorporates a busy hospital mortuary as well as a public mortuary for the London Borough of Islington. The mortuary is fully licensed by the Human Tissue Authority, the UK regulatory body that oversees the use, storage and disposal of human tissue. An autopsy service of the highest standard is provided both for the hospital and H.M Coroner, Inner North London District.

The mortuary also offers a CT scan autopsy service to the police and wider community.

An opportunity has arisen within this mortuary for a newly qualified Anatomical Pathology Technician to join our team. The individual must hold the Level 3 Diploma in Anatomical Pathology Technology or equivalent. They must be motivated, enthusiastic and flexible and able to work in a challenging and sensitive environment with a calm and professional attitude. Frequent exposure to emotional and distressing situations is required to carry out this role.

Main duties of the job

The successful candidate will also contribute to supporting the hospital Medical Examiner (ME) system. This involves the administration of documentation pertaining to patients that die within the hospital and local community.

The candidate will carry out the technical work of the department with particular reference to the management of the autopsy suite and body handling area as required by the mortuary manager and senior APT. They will assist the mortuary manager and Senior APT in the monitoring and control of work and supervision and training of junior staff.

The candidate will display good organisational skills, whilst carrying out varied and complex tasks.

The candidate will also be required to assist with the arrangement of ‘Public Health’ funerals’ on behalf of London Borough of Islington.

Close liaison with a variety of other professions including Coroner’s officers, police, doctors, nursing staff and funeral directors is therefore an essential function, as is communication with bereaved family and friends.

The candidate will be required to participate in the ‘Out of Hours’ on call system.

The Whittington mortuary is open 8am – 4pm Monday to Friday but these times will be flexible dependent on the autopsy schedule which often begins before 6am.

Candidates must have a reliable means of commuting to ensure consistent punctuality for the early morning shifts. Please note there is no parking on site

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

To carry out the technical work of the department with particular reference to the management of the autopsy suite and body handling area as required by the mortuary manager. To assist the mortuary manager in the monitoring and control of work and supervision and training of junior staff.

To deputise for the mortuary manager and Senior APT during periods of annual leave.

To complete audits as required by the mortuary manager and Senior APT, to have close liaison with the Designated Individual and attend regular governance meetings.

To contribute to the promotion and adherence to Health and Safety within the department by carrying out relevant training and attending appropriate courses suitable for the role.

To liaise with pathologists, hospital personnel, H.M. Coroner, funeral directors, police, members of the public etc.

To have, or be able to develop, good communication and interpersonal skills.

To have a sensitive and caring attitude towards bereaved family and friends

To strictly adhere to departmental standard operating procedures, health and safety guidelines and other relevant Trust and departmental policies.

To ensure Health and Safety standards are followed and maintained.

Shortlisted candidates are encouraged to visit prior to interview

Applicant requirements

The postholder will have access to vulnerable people in the course of their normal duties and as such this post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.