Medical Laboratory Assistant - Entry Level

Job overview

Applications are invited from enthusiastic, confident, motivated and hardworking individuals to work as Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLA's) within the combined Blood Science Specimen Reception areas in Pathology. MLAs are the first point of contact for the Laboratory therefore a friendly, approachable personality and excellent communication skills are essential.  You should have good attention to detail, manual dexterity and the ability to follow defined protocols whilst working quickly but effective under pressure.

Full time posts  37.5 hpw -  Fixed term 15 months

Part time hours may be considered

Please note we reserve the right to close this vacancy prior to the closing date once the required number of suitable applications have been received.

Main duties of the job

The role involves supporting scientific staff in the receipt, analytical preparation, labelling and data entry of patient samples & requests, maintenance and quality control of Point of Care Testing equipment and general laboratory support duties.  The role requires a calm, organised approach with attention to detail and good keyboard skills. Previous experience in an NHS clinical laboratory would be an advantage but not essential as full training will be provided. The Blood Science department operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and the successful candidate will be expected to support and participate in late shift rosters . The main Pathology services are located at North Tyneside Hospital, Wansbeck Hospital and the Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital, the first of its kind in England. There is also a smaller Specimen reception and Point of care testing based at Hexham Hospital. You may be expected to work at any of the sites as required for service provision therefore a full driving license and access to a vehicle is desirable.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The main duties of the role are to:

Perform basic sample reception and process duties including the receipt, barcode labelling and preparation of samples for analysis, loading of samples onto analysers or other laboratory equipment and sample archiving. Perform clerical tasks including data input of patient demographics and test request information and maintains clerical records. Perform general housekeeping duties including maintaining stock levels, general cleaning and waste disposal. Maintain and promote professional image. The work of the service brings staff into constant contact with human body fluids, tissues and hazardous chemicals. This may be blood, urine, fluid and faeces. The post holder may be required to work at NTGH/NSECH/WGH/HGH. To work flexibly in reflection of service needs this may include an extended working day and/or participation in delivery of a 24 hours, 7 days per week service. The post holder will be responsible to the Biomedical Scientists in Blood Sciences. The work involves handling biological samples and paperwork associated with this process therefore the departmental health and safety policies must be adhered to at all times.

NB: Post holder must not work outside their defined field of competence.