Specialist Biomedical Scientist

Hywel Dda University Health Board; Carmarthen; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading health service provider in the UK is seeking a Specialist Biomedical Scientist in Cellular Pathology to manage tissue sample preparation and processing. You will participate in quality assurance and train junior staff, with opportunities for professional development. A BSc in Life Science and HCPC registration are required. This position is based in Carmarthen and may involve work between sites, with a supportive approach for achieving qualifications.

Qualifications

• Experience commensurate with an experienced, HCPC Registered Specialist Biomedical Scientist.
• Knowledge of UKAS accreditation and quality management requirements.
• Documented evidence of ongoing CPD.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and process tissue samples in the laboratory.
• Contribute to quality assurance and continuous improvement.
• Support training and supervision of junior staff.

Skills

Clinical laboratory experience

Knowledge of medical laboratory sciences

Flexible approach to service needs

Ability to travel between sites

Education

BSc (Hons) Degree Life Science/Biomedical Science

HCPC Registration

IBMS Specialist Diploma

Job description

Overview

Applications are invited from enthusiastic individuals with a proven background of working in a Cellular Pathology environment, with the associated education and competency, to join this friendly, well-equipped Cellular Pathology department. The laboratory processes approximately 30,000 samples per year, providing essential services to the population of Hywel Dda University Health Board. This is a Band 6 position under Annex 21 and the post holder will work alongside the wider Cellular Pathology team to fulfil the daily operational requirements of this busy department. The central Histology laboratory is situated on the Glangwili Hospital site in Carmarthen with a small satellite team based at Prince Philip Hospital, Llanelli. The role may involve occasional work between sites. The successful candidate will develop and maintain close working relationships with all grades of staff, participate in a laboratory-based training program for all relevant staff, and be involved in continuous competency assessment. We are committed to continued professional and career development of all staff.

Main duties of the job

As Specialist Biomedical Scientist in Cellular Pathology, you will play a key role in the preparation and processing of tissue samples. You will perform a wide range of histology techniques including embedding, microtomy, special stains, and immunocytochemistry. You will be responsible for the organisation and quality of the work within the Cellular Pathology team in Glangwilli Hospital. You will contribute to quality assurance and continuous improvement of laboratory services, support training and supervision of junior staff, and ensure compliance. The ability to speak Welsh is desirable for this post; English and/or Welsh speakers are equally welcome to apply.

About us

Hywel Dda University Health Board plans and provides NHS healthcare services for people living in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, and bordering counties. We have over 13,000 staff and provide primary, community, in-hospital, mental health and learning disabilities services. We work in partnership with local authorities and public, private and third sector colleagues, including volunteers. Our services are provided in four main hospitals (Bronglais, Glangwili, Prince Philip, Withybush), five community hospitals, two integrated care centres, 47 general practices, dental practices (including four orthodontic), 97 community pharmacies, 43 general ophthalmic practices and 8 ophthalmic domiciliary providers, and numerous mental health and learning disabilities services.

Job responsibilities

This post is advertised as a Band 6 and ideally candidates should have achieved the Specialist Diploma. Applicants without the qualification may apply and, if successful, will need to attain it within 4 years under Annex 21 rules and will be supported by a development plan. In the first year, pay will be 60% of the top rate of Band 6, second year 65%, third year 70%, and fourth year 75%; once the Specialist Diploma is achieved, pay will be at Band 6 (minimum point). Failure to achieve the qualification within the designated timeframe could result in redeployment. There is no financial penalty under Annex 21 for applicants whose pay percentage is reduced; local protection will be put in place until pay catches up. A full job description and person specification are attached in the supporting documents. The Health Board supports bilingualism and welcomes applications from Welsh speakers. If Welsh language requirements are not met, options are available to help meet them during employment. Interviews will be held on 07/10/2025.

Person Specification

Qualifications & Knowledge

• BSc (Hons) Degree Life Science/Biomedical Science
• HCPC Registration
• IBMS Specialist Diploma, or equivalent level of knowledge through training and experience
• Knowledge of medical laboratory sciences and techniques commensurate with a HCPC Registered Biomedical Scientist
• Knowledge of UKAS accreditation and quality management requirements
• Knowledge of BSQR (2005), HTA and ISO 15189:2012 (as applicable)
• Documented evidence of ongoing CPD

Desirable

• Knowledge of hospital specialties
• Medical laboratory knowledge in more than one pathology discipline

Experience

• Clinical laboratory experience, commensurate with an experienced, HCPC Registered Specialist Biomedical Scientist

Other

• Ability to travel between sites as required
• Flexible approach to service needs
• Participate in shifts/roster, including out of hours

Desirable

• Welsh Speaker (level 1)

Additional information

Disclosure and Barring Service Check: This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires a DBS disclosure. Certificate of Sponsorship: Applications from job seekers who require Skilled Worker sponsorship are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. UK Registration: Applicants must have current UK professional registration.

Employer details

Employer name: Hywel Dda University Health Board
Address: Glangwili General Hospital, Dolgwili Road, Carmarthen, SA31 2AF
Employer's website: [not provided in refined text]