Medical Technical Officer B4

Job overview

We have an opportunity for an energetic, enthusiastic and well-motivated individual to join the Molecular Diagnostics Department at the Royal Surrey Foundation Trust for a full time laboratory-based position.

The Department is part of Berkshire and Surrey Pathology Services (BSPS). Molecular Diagnostics is a specialist department providing services for other BSPS departments, associated Trust clinicians and external private and NHS organisations, enabling specific diagnosis of patients and enabling genetics-based, personalised oncology treatments.

The job advertised here is to assist in the provision of this specialist molecular diagnostics service.

We are looking for someone who is proactive, has a keen eye for detail and works well in a team environment. Key responsibilities will include DNA and RNA extraction (both manual and automated methods), PCR and other more complex assay set-up, primary analysis of results.

Full training will be given, but previous laboratory experience would be a significant advantage.

Main duties of the job

Key responsibilities will include DNA and RNA extraction (both manual and automated methods), PCR and other more complex assay set-up.

To participate in the provision of an efficient and cost effective Molecular Diagnostic service within Surrey and Berkshire Pathology Services. To enhance the collaborative work between molecular and histology departments.

To prepare samples and perform both routine and some special techniques efficiently and in a conscientious manner with respect to work pressures and quality of the service.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Please refer to the full Job description and person spec

To participate in the provision of an efficient and cost effective Molecular Diagnostic service within Surrey and Berkshire Pathology Services. To enhance the collaborative work between molecular and histology departments.

To prepare samples and perform both routine and limited special techniques efficiently and in a conscientious manner with respect to work pressures and quality of the service.

• To take day to day responsibility for the quality of technical work produced
• To ensure that work is carried out in line with Standing Operational Procedures and/or Departmental policy
• To monitor quality control of all the tests performed
• To assist in the preparation of SOPs and other documentation
• Maintain reagent records, both paper and electronic, as part of section stock control system
• To participate in audits as required

• Participate in a range of duties within the department, under supervision or without supervision following successful competency assessment
• Carry out biomedical procedures including maintenance, monitoring of sophisticated equipment and audit in accordance with departmental SOPs ·
• Be able to effectively deal with simple day to day situations and problems, referring to Senior Biomedical Scientist staff when appropriate
• Demonstrate a robust knowledge of national and local health and safety standards
• Effectively maintain stock control, place orders and take appropriate action as required
• Participate in the review of departmental SOPs
• Ensure the safe disposal of specimens and waste and to ensure cleaning and maintenance of work areas and equipment is carried out in accordance with SOPs
• Work with and process a range of clinical samples in the department
• Ensures that samples meet acceptance criteria, dealing with any non-compliance in accordance with departmental protocols
• Ensures sample is appropriate type for all tests and assesses samples for urgency, informing Biomedical Scientist staff of such samples
• Is fully conversant with relevant departmental policies and Standard Operating Procedures, ensuring that personal performance complies with Accreditation standards
• In conjunction with Biomedical Scientist (BMS) staff, ensures the validity of results by the use of appropriate control materials
• Works in cooperation with BMS staff to ensure workload is processed in a timely and efficient manner
• Performs telephone duties that include making and receiving calls from and to the laboratory.
• To undertake sample reception, preparation, analysis and recording of results in accordance with approved procedures.
• To undertake the reception and checking of specimens and request forms and to ensure accurate identification of specimens.
• To accurately type patient details and required tests into the Pathology computer system.
• Use a Microtome, to cut sections from tissue samples processed in paraffin wax.
• To analyse sample using automated instrument and solve any technical problems with the machine as and when they arise.
• Load automated machine with appropriate samples and reagents and solve any technical problems with the machine as and when they arise.
• Assess quality and quantity of DNA and RNA in samples and ensure that these are appropriate for subsequent analysis
• To understand which pre examination process is required for each of the samples to be assessed.
• Use and maintain equipment within the department in compliance with departmental policy.
• To be responsible for own work which will include all aspects of the technical work, equipment and quality system
• To ensure the timely and efficient provision of diagnostics services