Medical Laboratory Assistant

Berkshireandsurreypathologyservices; Frimley; Hybrid; GBP 19,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a diligent Specimen Reception Assistant for the Pathology Service at Frimley Park Hospital. You will support the Blood Sciences team with receiving, labeling, and preparing samples, and accurately entering data into the Pathology system.

The role emphasizes accuracy, confidentiality, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a busy laboratory environment.

Qualifications

• GCSEs including Maths, English and two sciences.
• Experience in a specimen reception in pathology.
• Experience with laboratory applications Winpath, Enterprise.
• Excellent typing, attention to detail and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Receive, sort, label and prepare patient samples in the Pathology Laboratory.
• Enter data into the Pathology computer system and maintain workflow.
• Support electronic production and distribution of pathology reports; handle calls.
• Liaise with external labs and clinical staff; advise on specimen collection procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality and accuracy in pathology services.

Skills

Typing skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Education

GCSEs including Maths English and two sciences

Tools

Winpath

Enterprise

Job description

We have an exciting opportunity for a motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our friendly team within the Pathology Specimen Reception Department at Frimley Park Hospital.

This vital role involves accurately processing and recording patient samples, supporting the smooth operation of our busy pathology service.

While no formal qualifications or previous experience are required, you must have excellent typing skills, strong attention to detail, and a positive, team-focused attitude.

Please note: that this post is not a trainee Biomedical Scientist position and is therefore not suitable for recent graduates seeking progression into that role.

Main duties of the job

• As a Specimen Reception Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting the Blood Sciences team by ensuring the accurate receipt, sorting, and preparation of patient blood, bodily fluids, and other samples.
• You will be responsible for correctly labelling specimens, entering data onto the Pathology computer system, and maintaining a smooth and timely workflow to support clinical teams.
• The role requires strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• You will also carry out general laboratory and clerical duties to help provide an efficient, high-quality service.
• Based in the Pathology Laboratory at Frimley Park Hospital, part of Berkshire Surrey Pathology Services (BSPS), you will contribute to a network delivering over 20 million tests per year, providing essential diagnostic services to hospitals, GPs, and private healthcare providers, operating 7 days a week.

About us

Visa Sponsorship:This position is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants must already hold the right to work in the UK for the full duration of the contract.

Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust is committed to being an inclusive and disability confident employer and has been awarded the Gold for the Armed Forces Employment Recognition Scheme.

We provide first class development opportunities for all staff and have a wide range of professional, management and leadership, and clinical skills training available.

Here at Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust, we know how important it is to have a healthy work life balance; this benefits not only individuals but the patients we care for too.

We encourage applications from people who wish to work on a flexible basis, recognising that flexibility may mean a range of different working patterns and hours, we do our utmost to work with our staff to meet their needs and the needs of our service and its users.

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Job responsibilities

• The post holder will support the efficient running of the Specimen Reception by maintaining clear communication with the Team Leader and senior laboratory staff to minimise errors and ensure timely completion of all tasks.
• Duties include assisting with the electronic production and distribution of pathology reports, handling telephone enquiries, providing authorised test results, and redirecting calls as appropriate.
• You will liaise with external laboratories for tests not performed in-house and communicate with clinical staff regarding incorrect samples or missing information.
• The role also involves advising users on correct specimen collection procedures in line with the Pathology Handbook, providing guidance to patients on 24-hour urine collection, and ensuring all visitors to the laboratory are received in a professional, courteous manner.
• Accuracy, confidentiality, and excellent communication skills are essential to maintain the quality and efficiency of the pathology service.

For a full list of responsibilities and tasks associated with this role, please refer to the job description/person specification attached to this vacancy.

Qualifications

• GCSE's (or equivalent) at grade A* to C to include Mathematics, English Language and two relevant Science subjects.

Experience

• Experience of working in a specimen reception department in pathology.
• Experience working with Laboratory applications Winpath, Enterprise etc.
• Experience of working in a busy environment.

Skills & Knowledge

• Ability to work to tight deadlines.
• Ability to work to tight deadlines.
• Basic Knowledge of Medical Terminology.

Special Requirements

• Flexibility with working hours.

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.