Bank Medical Lab Assistant - Microbiology | Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust

Southend University Hospital NHS Trust; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare provider in Chelmsford seeks a Laboratory Assistant to assist in the analysis of biological samples by preparing and processing them under supervision. Responsibilities include clerical input of patient details, direct communication with healthcare professionals, and maintenance of laboratory equipment. The role demands adherence to safety procedures and the ability to handle inquiries. Ideal candidates should have a keen eye for detail, good communication skills, and experience in a laboratory setting. This is a full-time position with participation in out-of-hours working as needed.

Qualifications

• Experience in laboratory environments is advantageous.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures under supervision.
• Familiarity with safety and security protocols in laboratories.

Responsibilities

• Receive, prepare, and process biological samples.
• Input patient and test details into the laboratory information system.
• Assist with clerical duties in laboratories and Blood Sciences Office.
• Communicate results and manage inquiries from hospital staff.

Skills

Laboratory sample preparation

Clerical duties

Communication skills

Use of laboratory information systems

Basic tests and assays

Job description

In accordance with agreed protocols and standard operational procedures, the post-holder will participate in the analysis of biological samples by receiving, preparing and processing samples under the supervision of Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registered staff. This includes clerical input of patient and test details into the laboratory computer system and performing required supportive duties, for example preparation of reagents, administrative and clerical tasks, and maintenance of equipment. Participation in out-of-hours working may be expected, depending upon the needs of the service. This post is subject to the Trust’s Probationary Policy.

Sections

• Biochemistry
• Blood Sciences Office
• Blood Transfusion
• Haematology
• Immunology
• Point of Care
• Sample Reception

Duties may include a selection of the following:

• To partake in the reception of samples and the preparation for analysis.
• To select test profiles according to agreed protocols for specimen type and clinical details.
• To use the laboratory information system to input patient test requests efficiently and accurately to manage high volume workload.
• To receive phone calls from hospital staff, community‑based NHS staff, other health care professionals and the general public and to communicate authorised results by telephone when appropriate and refer more complex queries to HCPC registered staff.
• To assist in the provision of a Point of Care Testing service, as required. This includes answering queries from hospital staff, visiting wards, administrative tasks and use of the devices.
• To regularly liaise with peers, colleagues, managerial staff and customers of the Blood Sciences Laboratories to ensure the smooth running of personal area of responsibility.
• To assist with clerical duties both in the laboratories and in the Blood Sciences Office when required.

Analytical and Planning

• To partake in the reception of samples and the preparation for analysis.
• To select test profiles according to agreed protocols for specimen type and clinical details.

Clinical Duties

• To assist HCPC registered staff with basic tests and assays, and the maintenance and operation of automated instruments following standard operating procedures, for relevant departments.
• To ensure a safe environment by maintaining adequate levels of safety and security within the laboratory according to the Department, Directorate and Trust policies and procedures.
• To prepare and process specimens for referral by post or courier to external laboratories.
• To store processed specimens and assist in retrieval as necessary.
• To comply with risk assessments for work areas and adhere to COSHH assessments.
• Report all accidents, incidents or near misses, dangerous situations according to the Departmental and Trusts risk events procedure.

This advert closes on Monday 29 Dec 2025