Job overview
Join Our Team as an Assistant Technical Officer in a UKAS Accredited Microbiology Laboratory staffed by a friendly, busy and professional team of highly motivated BMS, and ATO support workers, dealing with around half a million samples per year.
The department operates a 24/7 working pattern, in which you will be required to participate.
You will be joining a team where your skills will be nurtured, and your contributions valued. Take the first step towards an exciting career in microbiology and apply now!
This is a fixed-term position to provide maternity leave cover. For candidates internal to the Trust, a secondment role can be considered.
Main duties of the job
The laboratory encompasses the usual areas of Bacteriology, Parasitology, Mycology, and Serology, alongside a specialist Diagnostic Molecular testing suite. As a Band 3 Assistant Technical Officer, you will play a crucial role in the laboratory testing procedures and provide technical support to Scientific staff within the Microbiology Department of Pathology. With approximately 500,000 investigations conducted each year, the department serves as a cornerstone of diagnostic excellence, providing essential services to all satellite units in the Peterborough area. You should have: • GCSE in Maths and English (at levels 9-5 or equivalent). A science-based GCSE would be advantageous. • Previous experience working in a laboratory environment is desirable. • Dexterity, good keyboard skills, and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. • Literacy and numeracy skills are essential, along with a flexible approach to work. The department operates an extended working day (8am to 8pm) Monday-Friday, 7 days a week roster, and night shift rota, in which you may be required to participate
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Technical/Scientific
Participates in the routine work of most areas of Microbiology, on a rotational basis, including:-
- Bacteriology
- Serology and Virology
- Mycology
- Parasitology (Faecal)
- Media preparation.
Receiving, sorting and handling samples of urine, faeces, blood and other body fluids.
Please read full Job Description.
Person specification
Skills
Essential
- Ability to type accurately and efficiently
- Self-motivated and able to work within a team culture
- Able to comply with policies and procedures within the constraints set by the laboratory and Trust
- Highly developed physical skills required with ability to maintain prolonged concentration and accuracy
Desirable
- Competent in the use of MS Outlook/ MS Word and Excel.
Knowledge & Experience
Essential
- Good general education
- Good standards of written and verbal communication
- Ability to communicate at all levels
- Ability to organise and prioritise own work
Desirable
- Previous experience of working in a Clinical Biochemistry and /or Immunology laboratory.
- Knowledge/understanding of the Data Protection Act
- Knowledge of Winpath LIMS system
- Understanding of medical terminology
- Awareness of the profession and its function
- Awareness of UKAS/ISO Accreditation and accreditation standards.
Education & Qualifications
Essential
- Educated to a minimum of GCSE or equivalent including science
Desirable
- NVQ or equivalent in laboratory or science discipline
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Applying for this NHS job
This advert is for Assistant Technical Officer - Peterborough with North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust in Peterborough, East of England, England. It is listed as a Band 3 Administrative and IT role. The advertised salary is £25,760 - £27,476 per annum pro rata. The contract type is 12 months (Fixed Term or Secondment - ending 30th June 2027). The application deadline is 05 Aug 2026.
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