Job overview
We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals who are professional, reliable, innovative and flexible to join our friendly team in our Microbiology Laboratory at Colchester Hospital.
Our vision is to deliver innovations and high-performing pathology services that are focused on our customers whilst delivering high quality and fully compliant services. We are clinically led and designed to achieve the benefits of scale that can be achieved by working together, while remaining close enough to our customers to meet their needs and support the excellent clinical care provided by our hospitals.
Training will be provided however extensive knowledge of pathology would be advantageous. If you do not meet the full specifications for the Band 4 post, you will be offered a Band 3 developmental post whilst you undergo training and competencies.
These posts will involve shift and weekend working and we are happy to consider full and part time.
We are looking for a healthcare professional who can understand the changing services of pathology and represent the new service going forward.
Our pathology department is part of the collaborative East Coast Pathology Network (see attached document)
About our Pathology Service
Main duties of the job
The nature of this role requires extensive team working, self-management and an advanced knowledge of Specimen Reception. Training and developing others, leadership and processing referral work are key components of the role.
You will undertake cross training to extend your skillset and will need to be flexible to respond to the needs of the service. You will work as part of a team and need the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. The role requires a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. Along with good communication skills you will need integrity and personal credibility, putting the patient first in everything that is undertaken.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
For full details of the responsibilities and duties of this role please see the attached job description.
Person specification
Education
Essential
- Appropriate NVQ 3/diploma or equivalent
- Additional theoretical or applied training to diploma equivalent level
Desirable
- Working towards Foundation degree or equivalent
Knowledge and Experience
Essential
- Demonstrable knowledge of a range of routine and non-routine healthcare science duties
- Demonstrable practical experience of working in a laboratory
Desirable
- Knowledge of Pathology IT systems
- Knowledge of Quality Management Systems
- Previous relevant experience of working in the NHS
- European Computer Driving Licence or equivalent
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Applying for this NHS job
This advert is for Associate Practitioner - Microbiology with East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust in Colchester Hospital. It is listed as a Band 4 role. The advertised salary is £28,392 - £31,157 per annum pro rata. The contract type is Permanent. The application deadline is 24 Aug 2026.
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