Bank Medical Laboratory Assistant

Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust; Kettering; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

A healthcare institution in the UK is seeking a Bank Medical Laboratory Assistant to work in Specimen Reception and the Blood Sciences Laboratory. The role involves processing and data entry of samples, with responsibilities including prioritizing urgent specimens and managing specimen details accurately. Previous NHS or laboratory experience is desirable, and candidates must possess strong communication and organizational skills. This position offers opportunities for training and growth within a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Previous NHS or laboratory experience desirable.
• Ability to work accurately and follow written procedures.
• Willingness to undertake DBS checks and complete mandatory training.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Prioritize urgent specimens.
• Solve day-to-day problems with specimens.
• Input patient details into the laboratory system accurately.
• Load and unload specimens onto automated analysers.
• Assist in the training of other laboratory assistants.
• Ensure availability of specimen supplies.

Skills

Excellent communication

Organisational skills

Problem-solving

Job description

Job Overview

We are looking for an enthusiastic Bank Medical Laboratory Assistant to work in Specimen Reception and the Blood Sciences Laboratory at Kettering General Hospital (and possibly across to Northampton General Hospital). The role involves receipt, sorting, processing of samples and data entry into the Telepath system. Previous NHS and laboratory experience is desirable; further training will be provided.

Key Responsibilities

1. Prioritisation (fast-tracking) of urgent specimens.
2. Solving day-to-day problems, including mislabelled and lost specimens.
3. Keyboard entry of patient and specimen details onto the laboratory computer system, ensuring accuracy.
4. Loading/unloading of specimens onto automated analysers and storage of specimens according to written procedures.
5. Basic use of the analysers, following suitable training.
6. Photocopying and general filing, including various request forms and collation of results from specialist external laboratories.
7. Daily checking of refrigerator and freezer temperatures.
8. Assistance with stock control to ensure supplies of specimen containers, labels and all consumables are available daily.
9. Participating in training of other laboratory assistants as required by supervisor.
10. Disposal of laboratory waste. General cleaning and disinfection duties.
11. Dealing with paediatric and other low-volume samples.
12. Any other duties consistent with this grade, as determined by the relevant supervisor, in relation to the smooth running of the department.
13. Answering the telephone for result enquiries and transferring calls appropriately.

Qualifications & Experience

• Previous NHS or laboratory experience desirable.
• Ability to work accurately, follow written procedures and demonstrate basic knowledge of analyser use.
• Willingness to undertake DBS checks, occupational health clearance and complete mandatory training.
• Excellent communication, organisational and problem‑solving skills.
• Willingness to work across both Kettering and Northampton hospital sites if required.

Employers & Values

Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust are part of the University Hospitals of Northamptonshire NHS Group. The group commits to excellence values of compassion, accountability, respect, integrity and courage. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from all protected groups, including BAME, disabled, LGBTQ+ and Armed Forces communities.

Recruitment & Conditions

Applications will be processed via the TRAC system. Successful candidates will undergo standard DBS checks (costs may be retained against first salary) and complete the required occupational health and statutory training records. New employees will be subject to a six‑month probationary period.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons from all backgrounds. We encourage applications from disadvantaged and protected groups and support a diverse and inclusive working environment.