Medical Laboratory Assistant - Virology

NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group; Liverpool; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare organization in Liverpool is looking for a Medical Laboratory Assistant to join their Virology department for a full-time position. Candidates are required to have clinical laboratory experience, though full training will be provided. This role will involve processing specimens and maintaining analytical equipment while working in a multidisciplinary environment with a focus on innovative diagnostics. The position includes compliance with quality standards and requires effective communication skills. Interested applicants should have GCSE level qualifications in English and Mathematics.

Benefits

Flexible working requests considered

Training provided

Qualifications

• Numerate and literate to GCSE level.
• Previous laboratory experience is desirable.
• Computer literate with data entry experience.

Responsibilities

• Process specimens for routine and specialist testing.
• Maintain analytical equipment in optimal condition.
• Participate in 24/7 shift work across all LCL sites.

Skills

Clinical laboratory experience

Communication skills

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

GCSE level in English and Mathematics

Tools

Basic laboratory equipment (pipette, pH meter, centrifuge)

Job description

Job Details

Band: 3
Grade: Band 3
Contract: 12 months (Fixed term: 12 months)
Hours: Full time – 37.5 hours per week (24/7 shifts)
Job Ref: 287-DTC-40-25
Department: LUH - 1 General Staffing (AFC posts)
Site: Liverpool Clinical Laboratories
Town: Liverpool
Salary: £24,937 – £26,598 per annum (Yearly)
Closing date: 27/01/2026 23:59

Job Overview

The Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) role will be based in the department of Virology. We seek applicants with clinical laboratory experience to participate in routine bench duties and broader involvement in quality, health and safety, and service development. The department utilizes fully automated serology and molecular solutions alongside specialist molecular work areas, positioning us at the heart of innovative diagnostics.

Successful candidates will work an extended seven‑day service of 08:00 to 20:00 and will be required to provide overnight coverage when needed by the Trust, such as during periods of increased seasonal activity.

While prior virology laboratory experience is desirable, full training will be provided. We value candidates who demonstrate the knowledge, skills and approach that fit with our department.

Main Duties of the Job

The post holder will receive and process specimens for routine and specialist testing. The role is multidisciplinary, involving the analysis of multiple specimen types using manual, semi‑automated and automated techniques and equipment as instructed. The post holder will also maintain analytical equipment in optimum operational condition, participate in 24/7 shift work across all LCL sites, complete required training, and undertake annual appraisal and bi‑annual competency assessment. The post holder will liaise with scientific and clinical staff within LCL and across the wider Trust within their scope of practice, and will perform any other reasonable duties aligned with service needs under supervision.

Detailed Job Description And Main Responsibilities

• Develop the knowledge and skills for specimen preparation for processing relevant to the department (within SOPs).
• Adhere to Health and Safety policies, HSE and departmental regulations.
• Maintain, calibrate, control, troubleshoot and operate routine and specialised equipment as directed.
• Comply with all quality standards and the department’s quality management systems.
• Manage stock control and order supplies as directed.
• Ensure compliance with Standard Operating Procedures and work independently with supervision available.
• Adhere to all relevant regulatory bodies and legislation.

Person Specification

Qualifications

• Numerate and Literate to GCSE level (including English and Mathematics).

Desirable Criteria

• Knowledge of Biomedical tests.
• Knowledge of medical terminologies.
• Continuous development portfolio.
• Previous laboratory experience.
• Computer literate with data entry experience.
• Understanding of confidentiality, data protection, biomedical science, lab roles, quality systems and Health and Safety.
• Ability to communicate courteously, work in a team, and manage time efficiently.
• Familiarity with basic laboratory equipment (pipette, pH meter, centrifuge, etc.) and scientific numeracy.
• Attention to detail, organisational skills and prioritisation.
• Willingness to work with biological materials and give clear written and verbal instructions.

Other

Please check your email regularly for communication regarding your application. Only those who demonstrate how they meet the person specification will be shortlisted. Applicants may be contacted for interviews per the Trust's standard recruitment process.

The Trust does not offer visa sponsorship for Band 2 and 3 roles with salaries below £25,000. All applicants must meet right‑to‑work requirements.

The Trust promotes equality, diversity and safeguarding. All staff are required to complete mandatory safeguarding, health, safety and DBS training as per policy.

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from all backgrounds. The Trust values a workforce that reflects the community and encourages applicants from under‑represented groups.

Workplace Support

Flexible working requests are considered, including reduced or compressed hours, fixed shifts, and home working where suitable.

Emergency Information

New entrants to the NHS will commence on the first pay point of the relevant band.

Recruitment Requirements

Applicants may be required to provide criminal record certificates, DBS information and other supporting documents as per policy.