Associate Genetic Technologist

Manchester University Nhs Foundation Trust

Manchester

On-site

GBP 28,000 - 31,000

Full time

3 days ago

Be an early applicant

A complete application in a minute

Tailored resume and cover letter, ready to send.

Get past ATS filters

Job summary

Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT) in Manchester is seeking an Associate Genetic Technologist for a permanent role at the NW GLH, St. Mary's Hospital.

The post involves working in an advanced genetics laboratory, with training provided; duties include technical lab tasks and some administration, with occasional weekend work. The successful candidate should have extensive lab experience, familiarity with diagnostic genetics, and the ability to work to tight deadlines in a team.

Qualifications

2 A levels (at least one in Science) OR extensive experience in an accredited Genetics laboratory.
Extensive experience in a laboratory environment.
Knowledge of NHS diagnostic laboratory work.
Flexible attitude; diplomatic and cooperative.

Responsibilities

Carrying out laboratory tasks within a section or subsection of the laboratory.
Maintain good attention to detail; perform repetitive tasks.
Collaborate with section and wider department to deliver reliable service.
Manipulate fine tools and materials requiring hand-eye coordination.
Follow detailed instructions and departmental procedures and codes of conduct.
Supervise less experienced staff in own area when required.
Ensure safe operation and maintenance of highly complex equipment.

Skills

Attention to detail

Manual dexterity

SOP compliance

Lab equipment use

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

2 A levels (Science) or equivalent experience

Foundation degree in science or equivalent (Desirable)

Job description

Job summary

We are seeking an enthusiastic and ambitious individual to fulfil the role of an Associate Genetic Technologist.

This is a permanent position based at the NHS North West Genomics Laboratory Hub (NW GLH)- Manchester Site at St. Mary's Hospital. The NW GLH is one of 7 GLHs as part of a national re‑organisation to provide a national genomic medicine service. It is a highly regarded, UKAS accredited, NHS clinical service provider of Genomics to a population of 7.2 million people in the North west of England, as well as a wide range of national and international specialist referrals.

This is an excellent opportunity for anyone wishing to work in an advanced laboratory environment and be part of a team delivering specialist diagnostic services. The successful candidate would have extensive and proven laboratory experience, with experience in diagnostic genetic laboratory work desirable. However, full training will be provided. The post will involve working within a technical team carrying out laboratory processes as well as some administrative work. A flexible attitude is essential, as is the ability to work to tight deadlines.

This role include occasional Saturday and Bank Holiday working.

Please note: This vacancy may close early once a sufficient number of applications have been received.

Main duties of the job

To carry out, after appropriate technical and administrative tasks of a section or subsection of the laboratory.
To have good attention to detail. Some essential tasks are repetitive and require specific unbroken work periods.
To collaborate with other members of section and wider department, working as a team, to achieve an effective and reliable service.
To be involved in the manipulation of fine tools and materials, which require a high degree of hand eye co‑ordination and manual dexterity.
To work accurately, following detailed instructions and departmental procedures and codes of conduct.
To supervise less experienced staff in own area of work when required.
To be responsible for safe operation and maintenance of highly complex equipment.

About us

Join Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT), the largest provider of specialist services, and our Oxford Road Campus in Manchester, the largest health academic campus in Europe - a great place to shape your career. With a workforce of over 30,000 colleagues, we work together to deliver exceptional care to more than 1 million people every year. Behind every patient cared for are people like you - keeping services running smoothly, supporting clinical teams, and helping create safe, welcoming environments for patients and our people alike.

At MFT, we believe in the power of teamwork, respect, and inclusion. Our People Plan reflects our commitment to making MFT a place where everyone feels they belong, where your ideas are heard, and your contribution is truly valued. Join us and work smarter with our digital technology and thrive in a collaborative culture that empowers you to deliver your best to ensure that your work behind the scenes creates seamless, high‑quality care and exceptional patient outcomes.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow, we offer clear pathways for development and a culture that supports your wellbeing, ambition, and success. Everything you do makes a real difference to the lives of others.

At MFT, your role matters, your impact is real, and you're part of something bigger from day one.

Details

Pay scheme: Agenda for change

Band: Band 4

Salary: £28,392 to £31,157 a year per annum, pro rata

Contract: Permanent

Working pattern: Full‑time

Diversity Matters

MFT is committed to promoting equality of opportunity, celebrating and valuing diversity and eliminating any form of unlawful discrimination across our workforce, ensuring our people are truly representative of the communities we serve. All individuals regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation are encouraged to apply for this post. As an inclusive employer, we are here to support you. If you have any special requirements to help you with your application, please contact the manager named below.

Closing vacancy listings early

We welcome applications from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. To help us manage applications fairly and give each one the time it deserves, our adverts may close early if we receive a high level of interest. Early applications are therefore encouraged.

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check

As part of our commitment to safeguarding patients and staff, many roles at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT) require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. This is a standard process across the NHS and helps us ensure a safe environment for everyone.

What is a DBS Check?

A DBS check is a background check that reveals any criminal convictions, cautions, reprimands, or warnings. The level of check required depends on the role:

Standard DBS: Checks for spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and final warnings.
Enhanced DBS: Includes the above, plus any additional information held by local police that's considered relevant to the role.
Enhanced with Barred Lists: Includes all of the above, plus checks against the children's and/or adults barred lists.

Who Needs a DBS Check

Most roles involving direct patient contact, working with children or vulnerable adults, or access to sensitive information will require a DBS check. The job advert and recruitment team will let you know if this applies to your role.

The Costs for a DBS

At Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT), roles that require a DBS check are subject to a cost recovery policy. This means that the cost of submitting and processing a DBS application if you are successful and join us, will be deducted from your salary within the first three months of employment. If, however, you withdraw from a conditional offer after the DBS process has begun, you will still be liable for the cost incurred.

For more information about the cost of the various types of DBS, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/dbs-fees-are-changing-in-december

DBS Update Service

Candidates are also expected to register with the DBS Update Service which must be completed within 30 days of the certificate being issued. This helps streamline future employment checks and supports safer recruitment practices. For more information, please visit the DBS Update Service.

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

2 A levels (at least one in Science) OR Extensive and proven experience working as an Assistant Technologist in an accredited Genetics laboratory

Desirable

Foundation degree in relevant science, or equivalent

Experience

Essential

Extensive or proven experience in a laboratory environment

Desirable

Experience in an accredited genetics/diagnostic laboratory
Experience of staff training

Skills

Essential

Able to work accurately and follow standard operating procedures accurately
Be proficient in a range of genetic techniques currently employed by the department under supervision
Effective team worker
Good organisational skills
Able to recognise and manage priorities
Be competent in the use of the laboratory database and document management systems
Good written and verbal communication skills
Ability to give technical training to other staff
Able to use and maintain lab equipment
Proven ability using automated equipment and associated software
To take responsibility for own work under direction of senior lab staff
Able to recognise problems arising during testing and communicate these to senior laboratory staff