Microbiology Higher Medical Laboratory Assistant

ZeroAge; Nottingham; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading NHS Trust in Nottingham is offering an opportunity for a Higher Medical Laboratory Assistant. The role supports scientific staff in a busy clinical environment. Applicants should have a background in secondary education, particularly in Maths, English and Science. Flexibility in shifts is required as this position involves working nights and weekends as part of a comprehensive 24/7 service.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in an NHS clinical laboratory would be advantageous but not essential.
• A good level of secondary education with English, Maths, and Science to GCSE level.
• Ability to concentrate on repetitive tasks.

Responsibilities

• Sort and prepare patient samples.
• Maintain stocks of consumable items.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Clerical tasks including data input.

Skills

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

GCSE in English

GCSE in Maths

GCSE in Science

A-Level or BTEC/NVQ equivalent

Job description

Overview

The Microbiology department at the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust have opportunities following investment to provide a 24/7 Clinical Diagnostic Microbiology Service. We have permanent posts within our Higher Medical Laboratory Assistant team. The role is varied and involves supporting the scientific staff (Biomedical Scientists) and is key to supporting a diagnostic service. The successful applicant will participate in the department's 24/7 working patterns, including weekends and night shifts as well as early, core and late shifts.

Responsibilities

• receipt, sorting, and preparation of patient samples
• maintaining stocks of consumable items
• disposal of biological waste
• operating and maintaining laboratory equipment
• performing general housekeeping duties
• clerical tasks including data input of patient demographics and test request information
• answer telephone enquiries and perform visitor reception duties

Qualifications and Experience

Previous experience in an NHS clinical laboratory would be an advantage but is not essential as full training will be provided. A positive attitude, experience of working effectively in a busy team environment, and the ability to concentrate on repetitive tasks with attention to detail are valued. A good level of secondary education is required with English, Maths and Science to GCSE (Grade A-C / 4 to 9); A Level or BTEC/NVQ equivalent qualifications.

About Us

The Clinical Microbiology service handles in excess of 900,000 microbiology and virology samples per year. We are a trained Institute of Biomedical Science teaching centre and provide opportunities across a variety of professional qualifications. This service is 24/7, so flexibility to work all shifts including night shifts is required.

Details

• Date posted: 22 September 2025
• Pay scheme: Agenda for Change
• Band: 3
• Salary: £24,937 to £26,598 per annum
• Contract: Permanent
• Working pattern: Full-time, Part-time
• Reference number: 164-7466587
• Job locations: QMC campus, Derby Road, Nottingham, NG7 2UH

Job Description

For full details of the role please see the attached Job Description. It is important to be able to attend an on-site interview and practical assessment within a two-week notice period. Please indicate in your supporting statement that you can comply with this requirement. Interviews are likely to be held within 3-4 weeks of the advert closing date. Your supporting statement should reflect the Personal Specification and indicate how you meet the role. You may be asked to answer: Why is it important for a hospital to have a microbiology laboratory? (maximum five lines). Note that the post may close early if sufficient applications are received.

Person Specification

• Essential: Basic qualifications GCSE Maths, English, Science; A-Level / BTEC Certificate/Diploma Level 3
• Desirable: NVQ Level 3 in Science and/or ECDL or equivalent
• Essential: Working experience with transferable skills; good communication skills (written and verbal)
• Desirable: Previous laboratory experience (working environment); experience with analysers in microbiology
• Essential: Evidence of following instructions in the supporting statement; ability to show why they would be good in the role

Disclosure and Barring Service check: This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975 and will require a DBS check.