Medical Laboratory Assistant

Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust; Manchester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A major healthcare provider in Manchester seeks a motivated individual for a laboratory role. Responsibilities include working across multiple sites, performing tests on samples, and ensuring safety and quality in laboratory procedures. Ideal candidates should have laboratory experience and knowledge of health and safety standards. The role offers a collaborative environment, supportive team culture, and opportunities for professional development, making a meaningful impact in patient care.

Benefits

Professional development pathways

Collaborative work environment

Supportive team culture

Qualifications

• Working knowledge of laboratory areas.
• Basic theoretical knowledge of various laboratory methods.

Responsibilities

• Work at all sites of the Trust based on service needs.
• Work 24/7 shifts including nights and weekends.
• Process specimens and maintain equipment.
• Select appropriate reagents for tests.
• Perform complex manual/automated tests on samples.
• Report urgent results and handle inquiries.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Health and safety awareness

Analytical techniques

Job description

Overview

We are a CPA and IBMS accredited department serving a major university teaching hospital with many clinical specialities. The laboratories utilise state‑of‑the‑art equipment. We provide a comprehensive range of haematology and blood transfusion laboratory services and specialty diagnostic testing and reference work for leukaemia, haemostasis, thrombosis and haemoglobinopathies.

We are looking for a suitably motivated and enthusiastic individual ideally with laboratory experience. You will have working knowledge of laboratory areas, including health and safety awareness and some practical and basic theoretical knowledge of the various methods employed.

Responsibilities

• Work at all Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust sites, dependent on the needs of the service.
• Work 24/7 shifts which will include earlies, lates, nights and weekends. Shift patterns will be determined by your line manager.
• Work your contracted hours as and when necessary to meet the service needs of the department.
• Work under remote supervision of a Registered Biomedical Scientist following defined Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Process specimens, monitor and maintain equipment, assist BMS staff in analytical techniques, and use automated equipment.
• Select appropriate reagents and calibrators for laboratory tests following departmental SOPs.
• Perform complex manual/automated tests on ‘precious’ samples.
• Perform initial review of quality control/assay performance data prior to BMS approval.
• Report by telephone urgent results to medical or nursing staff, GPs and other hospitals according to departmental policies.
• Handle telephone enquiries to the Blood Transfusion department regarding sample and product availability.
• Track Blood & Blood Components throughout the Trust to ensure appropriate storage and records are kept.
• Clean and disinfect equipment and laboratory areas and dispose of tissue and patient samples in accordance with relevant guidelines.

Benefits and Work Culture

Join Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT) and become part of a 30,000 plus strong team, delivering exceptional care to over 1 million people every year. As the largest provider of specialist services, and our Oxford Road Campus in Manchester, the largest health academic campus in Europe, we are forward‑thinking, committed to clinical excellence and driven to deliver innovation and continuous improvement. Whether you’re beginning your career or taking the next step, MFT offers a stimulating and supportive environment where your contribution truly matters. Our Hive Electronic Patient Record system enables safer, smarter, and more efficient ways of working – empowering you to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients.

You’ll be part of a collaborative, multi‑disciplinary community, working alongside professionals from a wide range of clinical backgrounds. Together we push boundaries, share knowledge and deliver care that transforms lives. At MFT, you’ll find a workplace where everyone is respected, supported and encouraged to thrive. We offer clear clinical pathways for professional development, helping you grow your skills and achieve your ambitions.

Your journey at MFT is more than a job – it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact. We’ll support you as you shape the future of healthcare, one patient at a time.