Specimen Reception Medical Laboratory Assistant B2

NHS; Guildford; On-site; GBP 26,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent NHS Trust in Guildford is looking for a motivated individual for a full-time permanent role in the Molecular Diagnostics Department. The successful candidate will assist in sample processing, entering data into the hospital database, and ensuring accurate specimen handling. A commitment to teamwork and detail is essential. Salary is £25,768 per year, and full training will be provided.

Benefits

Comprehensive health and wellbeing programs

Support for professional development

Qualifications

• Basic understanding of laboratory procedures.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Responsibilities

• Receive and triage samples for molecular diagnostics.
• Accurately enter patient data into the hospital database.
• Label and prepare pathology specimens.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Proactivity

Education

GCSEs or equivalent in Science subjects

Job description

Job summary

We have an opportunity for an energetic, enthusiastic, and well-motivated individual to join the Molecular Diagnostics Department at the Royal Surrey Foundation Trust for a full-time, permanent position.

The Department is part of Berkshire and Surrey Pathology Services (BSPS), which provides high-quality pathology services for five health Trusts across the region.

The role involves assisting in the provision of the molecular diagnostics service, including receiving and triaging samples to ensure they are accurately booked into the hospital database or sent to reference laboratories for testing.

We seek someone who is proactive, detail-oriented, and team-focused. Key responsibilities include receipt and labeling of specimens, checking specimens, and entering patient data accurately into the hospital database.

Full training will be provided; previous laboratory experience is not required.

If you have questions or wish to arrange an informal visit, please contact Pierre Foskett, Laboratory Manager, at 01483 571122 ext 6839 or via email: [e-mail]

Main duties of the job

The position is based in the specimen reception of the molecular diagnostics laboratory managed by Berkshire and Surrey Pathology Services (BSPS). BSPS operates across Royal Berkshire, Royal Surrey, Frimley Health, Ashford, St Peter's Hospitals, and Surrey and Sussex NHS Trusts.

The post involves working in a laboratory environment, assisting with analytical work preparation by receiving, labeling, and entering pathology specimen requests into the laboratory computer system under supervision. Dispatching samples to reference laboratories as needed. Flexible working hours can be discussed.

About us

Royal Surrey is a compassionate and collaborative Trust, valuing its 5,000 staff. We offer comprehensive health and wellbeing programs and support professional development. Our diverse team ensures you feel valued throughout your career with us.

We provide joined-up care bridging hospital and community services, including regional specialist cancer care. Our main hospital is in Guildford, with community sites in Milford, Haslemere, and Cranleigh. We also offer adult community health services across Guildford and Waverley.

The CQC rated us as Outstanding overall.

We are proud of our achievements and are investing over £45 million in our facilities and equipment in the coming years. Join us at an exciting time.

Note: Although not standard practice, adverts may close early, so apply promptly.

Watch a video about Royal Surrey: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R96pMboIYdo

Details

Date posted: 14 August 2025

Pay scheme: Agenda for Change

Band: Band 2

Salary: £25,768 per year (pro rata) including High Cost Area Supplement

Contract: Permanent

Working pattern: Full-time

Reference number: 384-AR-EMF18971

Job location: Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Egerton Road, Guildford, GU2 7XX

Job responsibilities

Please see the attached Job Description and Person Specification for detailed duties.

Responsibilities include receiving and processing molecular and genetic requests and samples from across the BSPS network, accurately entering patient details into the hospital database, labeling and preparing samples, dispatching reports and samples, handling telephone enquiries professionally, and following SOPs at all times. Effective communication with staff, porters, drivers, and couriers is essential. Additional duties may include performing other tasks of an MLA in a specialist department.

Person Specification

Qualifications (Essential):

• GCSEs or equivalent in Science subjects

Desirable qualifications:

• A levels or equivalent in science subjects

Knowledge (Desirable):

• Previous laboratory experience
• Understanding of Health and Safety issues, including COSHH
• Previous NHS work experience
• Data Entry experience (Winpath)
• Knowledge of DNA extraction methods
• Experience with PCR

Other requirements

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975, requiring a disclosure check for any criminal convictions.

Employer details

Name: Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust

Address: Egerton Road, Guildford, GU2 7XX

Website: https://www.royalsurrey.nhs.uk/