Medical Laboratory Assistant

Integrated Care System; London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare organization is seeking a Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) in Blood Sciences to support various laboratory operations. The role involves handling samples, maintaining equipment, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols. Candidates should have a good educational background in science and experience in a laboratory setting. The position offers a salary ranging from £30,546 to £32,207 per annum based on experience.

Benefits

Development and training benefits

Potential funding for advanced qualifications

Participation in scientific events

Qualifications

• Good written and verbal communication skills are essential.
• Teamwork experience is beneficial.
• Experience working in a pathology laboratory environment is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Handling and managing samples in line with SOPs.
• Supporting and training colleagues as needed.
• Performing daily checks and completing related paperwork.

Skills

Good written and verbal communication skills

Organized and methodical

Attention to detail

Ability to operate precision instruments

Education

A Level / BTEC in Science or equivalent

Good all-round education to GCSE including English and Maths

Tools

Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

Microsoft Office

Job description

This is a sought-after position for anyone looking for a truly varied and rewarding role. You will support our Blood Sciences teams to deliver a first-class service to patients whether they be in hospital, attending outpatient clinics, or seeing their GP.

As an MLA in Blood Sciences, you are responsible for every aspect of the sample pathway from receiving in to running on the analysers. All duties are conducted according to authorised and accredited protocols.

The post holder is responsible for maintaining effective communication within the teams and with other colleagues including Associate Practitioners (AP), Biomedical Scientists (BMS), and Clinical Scientists. You will report to the Floor 2 Reception Team Manager.

Each Synnovis site has a uniquely different environment, ranging from smaller specialist laboratories to our flagship hub, which processes over 30,000 samples per day!

Main duties of the job

The Blood Sciences laboratories on Floor 2 of the Blackfriars hub are equipped with state-of-the-art automation for Haematology, Haemostasis, Chemistry, Immunology, Virology, and include a specialist Red Cell laboratory.

You will hold various responsibilities in the laboratory environment, including but not limited to:

• Handling and managing samples in line with SOPs and assessed competencies.
• Performing tasks and operating laboratory equipment safely and according to local SOPs.
• Preparing solutions, reagents, etc., using various laboratory equipment.
• Ensuring all laboratory consumables and equipment are maintained per SOPs and safety guidelines.
• Completing accurate data entry in accordance with IG procedures.
• Providing administrative support as appropriate and depending on experience and training.

The post holder will be required to participate in a 24/7 working rota.

About us

This is an exciting time to join our team! In 2025, we will complete a large project to deliver a hub and spoke operating model. Analysers on each site are being upgraded to standardize laboratory methods, harmonize reference ranges, and deliver accurate and timely results across South East London GP network and hospitals.

Your development and learning

We offer many benefits, especially in development and training, including The Synnovis Way Development programme, the Scientific Learning and Development Fund, and the Synnovis Academy for funding and support for advanced qualifications.

You can also apply for funding through our Innovation Accelerator Fund to support innovative scientific projects and participate in scientific events and peer group meetings.

Job responsibilities

We are shaping the future of pathology services by creating a world-leading Hub and Spoke network with NHS partners. A significant part of this involves moving 70% of our services to a new, purpose-built Hub laboratory in London. The role is based at our Blackfriars Hub or hospital sites, with ongoing refurbishments across our hospital network.

Main duties and responsibilities

As an MLA, your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Performing cleaning activities and preparing laboratory equipment.
• Performing daily checks and completing related paperwork.
• Conducting environmental monitoring and waste management safely.
• Supporting and training colleagues as needed.
• Using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) to record sensitive patient information accurately, maintaining confidentiality and following IG guidelines.

Person Specification

Qualifications

• Good all-round education to GCSE standard including English and Maths at grade 4/C or equivalent, or Level 2 Healthcare Science apprenticeship.
• A Level / BTEC in Science (or equivalent or higher).

Experience

• Teamwork experience.
• Experience working in a busy environment.
• Experience with computer applications like Microsoft Office or Google Docs, and data entry.
• Experience working accurately with attention to detail.
• Experience in a pathology laboratory environment.
• Handling biological specimens.

Skills & Knowledge

• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Numerate and literate.
• Organized and methodical.
• Ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to follow written procedures accurately.
• Ability to maintain focus and concentration for extended periods.
• Ability to operate precision instruments and equipment.
• Ability to lift, move, and manipulate specimens.
• Willingness to learn complex procedures and follow guidelines.
• Awareness of the role of medical laboratories.
• Knowledge of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to DBS checks due to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975.

Salary ranges from £30,546 to £32,207 per annum, depending on experience.