Assistant Anatomical Pathology Technologist

Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust; Leigh on Sea; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare service provider in Leigh on Sea is looking for an Assistant Anatomical Pathology Technologist. The role involves assisting in mortuary operations, handling deceased patients, and providing compassionate support to bereaved families. Candidates should possess at least 5 GCSEs, including grades in biology or a relevant field, and demonstrate strong interpersonal skills. The position offers a salary range of £24,937 to £26,598 per annum. A driving licence and access to a vehicle are required for cross-site duties.

Qualifications

• Must possess GCSEs in relevant subjects to meet entry requirements.
• Experience with sensitive communication to bereaved relatives is essential.
• Driving licence and access to a vehicle required.

Responsibilities

• Assist in daily mortuary operations including body handling and viewings.
• Maintain mortuary hygiene and fulfill health and safety responsibilities.
• Supervise non-mortuary staff and ensure efficient operations.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Compassionate communication

Data input accuracy

Ability to work under pressure

Education

5 GCSE's or equivalent higher education qualifications

Grades in biology or relevant scientific field

Job description

Assistant Anatomical Pathology Technologist

Closing date: 23 December 2025

This Assistant Anatomical Pathology Technologist post would suit an enthusiastic, self-motivated individual with excellent interpersonal and communication skills, attention to detail and the ability to work alone and as part of our team. The duties associated with this role are physically and mentally demanding; an essential part is an empathic approach with our bereaved families and always supporting the dignity of the deceased patients. Physical exertion is routine with participation in moving deceased patients, preparing, and facilitating family viewings. Administrative duties such as liaising with funeral directors, Essex County Council and the Coroner's office are core responsibilities of this role.

In addition to a Postmortem Service, we provide a viewing service for bereaved relatives, run the body store and work with Funeral Directors and Bereavement Services to ensure an integrated service for our deceased patients and their relatives.

Responsibilities

• Assist in daily mortuary operations including body handling, receipt, release, and viewings.
• Participate in the review and completion of audits, risk assessments, and competencies.
• Maintain mortuary hygiene and fulfill health and safety responsibilities.
• Supervise porters and other non‑mortuary staff entering the mortuary and support a safe and efficient working environment.
• Work across sites when capacity and demand require.

About us

Our ambition is to deliver excellent local and specialist services, to improve the health and well‑being of our patients, and provide a vibrant place for staff to develop, innovate and build careers. We aim to make the most of our skills and experiences so we can become the best we can be. As one organisation we will recruit the finest and retain more specialist staff due to more employment opportunities across our Trust.

Qualifications

• 5 GCSE's or equivalent higher education qualifications
• Grades in biology or another relevant scientific field

Knowledge and Experience

• Computer literate with data input accuracy
• Broad knowledge of modern mortuary practice

Communication Skills

• Interpersonal skills when dealing with bereaved relatives and discussing sensitive matters with compassion.
• Must be able to work under pressure and remain calm and diplomatic.

Other

• Must have driving licence and access to a vehicle
• Willing to cross-site cover at other sites

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust

£24,937 to £26,598 a year per annum (pro rata for part time)