Medical Laboratory Assistant - Blood Sciences

Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust; Kettering; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider in Kettering seeks a dedicated Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) to support laboratory operations. Key responsibilities include specimen processing, pre-analytical support, and compliance with safety protocols. The ideal candidate will have strong keyboard skills, a commitment to accuracy, and effective communication abilities. This role requires flexibility as the service operates 24/7.

Qualifications

• Essential keyboard skills and a reasonable standard of literacy.
• Genuine interest in science and healthcare with a willingness to learn.
• Ability to concentrate for extended periods to ensure accurate processing.

Responsibilities

• Processing laboratory specimens and ensuring accurate data entry.
• Providing support to the Biochemistry Department.
• Assisting in handling hazardous materials safely.

Skills

Keyboard skills

Interest in science and healthcare

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Flexibility in hours

Knowledge of hazardous materials handling

Job description

We are looking for a dedicated Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) to join our dynamic laboratory. This is a hands‑on role that supports the day‑to‑day operations of the laboratory, ensuring the smooth and efficient processing of samples and assisting with a variety of essential tasks. As an MLA, you will be key to supporting our laboratory staff in delivering high‑quality diagnostic services.

Responsibilities

• Processing laboratory specimens and ensuring patient details are accurately entered into the laboratory computer system.
• Providing pre‑analytical support to the Biochemistry Department.
• Assisting in the safe handling of hazardous chemical and biological materials.
• Working under the supervision of qualified biomedical scientists to ensure compliance with laboratory protocols.
• Maintaining a clean and safe working environment, adhering to all health and safety guidelines.
• Communicating effectively with team members and other healthcare professionals to ensure the smooth running of the service.

Qualifications and Skills

• Keyboard skills and a reasonable standard of literacy are essential.
• A genuine interest in science and healthcare, and a willingness to learn.
• The ability to concentrate for extended periods, ensuring accurate and efficient processing of laboratory specimens.
• A strong focus on accuracy and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work well as part of a team.
• Flexibility in hours is essential as the service operates 24/7, 365 days a year.
• An understanding of the safe handling of hazardous chemical and biological materials.

Situated in rural Northamptonshire, Kettering benefits from affordable housing and attractive surrounding countryside. It has good road and rail links to the rest of the country, being just one hour from central London.

Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is one of the largest employers in the area and we are on an exciting journey. Our mission is to provide safe, compassionate, and clinically excellent patient care, by being an outstanding employer for our people. We have entered into a Group Model with neighbouring Northampton General Hospital and have become University Hospitals of Northamptonshire.

Our Excellence Values

• Compassion
• Respect
• Integrity
• Courageous
• Accountable