Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA)

Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust; Ilford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider in the UK is seeking a part-time Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) to join their Blood Sciences Specimen Reception team. The role involves accurately processing patient samples and ensuring proper data entry within a busy laboratory environment. Candidates should possess strong IT and communication skills, along with the ability to work effectively as part of a dedicated team. This position offers a fixed-term contract with potential weekend working hours following training.

Qualifications

• Enthusiastic individual with a strong work ethic required.
• Good IT and communication skills to manage data.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced team environment.

Responsibilities

• Accurate receipting, sorting, and processing of samples.
• Support distribution of samples to correct disciplines.
• Assist with training and support of other staff.

Skills

Strong work ethic and attention to detail

Good IT and communication skills

Ability to work effectively as part of a team

Job description

Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) – Part‑time Fixed‑term

We are seeking an enthusiastic individual to join our busy Blood Sciences Specimen Reception team as a Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) on a part‑time fixed‑term basis.

Key Responsibilities

• Accurate receipting, sorting, and processing of patient samples prior to laboratory analysis.
• Support the entire Pathology service by ensuring samples are distributed to the correct disciplines and data is accurately entered into the laboratory information system (Winpath).
• Assist with training and support of other staff in reception.

Qualifications & Skills

• Strong work ethic and attention to detail.
• Good IT and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a fast‑paced environment.

Working Pattern

Initially, you will work on consecutive weekdays during the training period (approx. 2–3 months). After training, this will be a weekend role with core hours of 8 am to 8 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, as directed by the Lead Supervisor. Cross‑site working between KGH in Goodmayes and Queen’s Hospital in Romford is expected.

Commitments

This 12‑month fixed‑term contract may be slightly shorter than 12 months once the advertising, hiring and pre‑employment checks are complete. Applications will be considered early if we receive a high volume of suitable candidates.

Equal Opportunity

We are an equal‑opportunity employer welcoming applications from all sections of the community and from people wishing to job‑share, with or without a partner. Applicants with a disability (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) will be shortlisted for interview if they meet the essential criteria.

Application Details

All correspondence regarding this application will be via e‑mail. Please provide references from your most recent employer, including a direct line manager or supervisor. Contact the recruiting manager to discuss part‑time hours and flexible working arrangements.