Job overview
We are seeking a motivated and experienced staff member to step into the role of Band 4 Specimen Reception & Logistics Supervisor. There are full-time (1 WTE) and part-time (0.8 WTE) vacancies available based at Royal London Hospital. We are looking for someone with excellent organisational, communication and leadership skills to assist and coordinate the day-to-day operations and support a team of Medical Laboratory Assistants within our busy and high-performing reception service.
The successful candidate will be expected to work across our Partnership sites as service needs require, including St Bartholomew’s, Homerton Hospital, Whipps Cross Hospital, Newham Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital (Woolwich) & University Hospital Lewisham. The department provides a 24/7 service, and the successful candidate will be required to participate in the shift system to cover early, late, weekend and bank holiday rosters. Some night duties may also be required.
The laboratories are UKAS and HCPC accredited. Our commitment to supporting continuing professional development is evidenced by an excellent training record.
Main duties of the job
Specimen Reception & Logistics (SRL) is responsible for the timely receipt, pre-analytical sample processing and sample delivery to laboratories supporting safe patient care across the Pathology Partnership. The post holder is responsible for providing day to day supervision, coordination and operational support across the service. This role is a working supervisor post, routinely performing medical laboratory assistant (MLA) duties alongside first-line supervisory responsibilities to maintain workflow and quality standards.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
We are dedicated to being an outstanding place to work and will work with you to get the best experience. We know flexible working is not a one size fits all and will mean something different to everyone. We are inclusive, so if you are interested in flexible working, please speak to the recruiting manager.
The full job description provides an overview of the key tasks and responsibilities of the role, and the person specification outlines the qualifications, skills, experience, and knowledge required. For both documents, please view the attachment/s below.
Person specification
Skills
Essential
- Proficient in computer skills (Word, Excel, LIMS, PAS, CRS)
- Ability to supervise and support others effectively
- Ability to plan and organise own work and the work of others
- Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritise under pressure
- Awareness of data protection and confidentiality
- Knowledge of stock control and logistics processes Advanced data entry
- Advanced data entry accuracy and IT literacy
Knowledge
Essential
- Understanding of pre-analytical processes and specimen pathways
- Understanding of pre-analytical processes and specimen pathways Safety and infection-control requirements
- Knowledge of Quality Management Systems and UKAS standards
- Knowledge of rota management and team coordination
Experience
Essential
- Minimum 1 years’ experience as a Medical Laboratory Assistant in a busy specimen reception environment
- Minimum 1 years’ experience in a supervisory or lead capacity, supporting junior staff
- Experience of problem-solving and implementing change
- Experience of rota planning and coordinating workload
- Experience of liaising with logistics or transport teams
Communications
Essential
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Qualifications
Essential
- GCSE A–C in English, Maths, IT and Science or equivalent
Desirable
- Further education in a science or health-related subject (e.g. BTEC/NVQ Level 3)
- Evidence of continued professional development and supervisory training
Specific requirements
Essential
- Ability to work across multiple sites within the Pathology Partnership
- Ability to participate in shift, weekend and bank-holiday rotas
- No reservations in handling clinical specimens
- Vaccination compliance and adherence to Infection Control policies
Personal and people development
Essential
- Reliable, responsible, and organised
- Pleasant and helpful approach
- Flexible and adaptable to service needs
- Able to motivate and support others
- Ability to remain calm under pressure
- Committed to team values and Trust WeCare standards
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Applying for this NHS job
This advert is for Specimen Reception & Logistics Supervisor with Barts Health NHS Trust in London, London, England. It is listed as a Band 4 Administrative and IT role. The advertised salary is £34,186 - £37,389 per annum inc. The contract type is Permanent. The application deadline is 02 Jul 2026.
Before you apply, compare the job description with the person specification and mirror the employer's essential criteria in your supporting information. Use the vacancy title, employer, location, salary, contract type, closing date and posted date (18 Jun 2026) to decide whether this role fits your current NHS job search. If the employer can close applications early, prepare the application before the stated deadline rather than waiting for the final day.
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