Trainee Anatomical Pathology Technician | University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust

University Hospital Southampton NHS FT; Southampton; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent healthcare institution in Southampton is offering a unique Band 3 Trainee Anatomical Pathology Technician role. This career opportunity supports structured training leading to a Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Science, enabling individuals to assist in vital mortuary services and autopsies. The role fosters growth and professional development in a collaborative and compassionate environment.

Benefits

Flexible working environment

Comprehensive training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in mortuary services, funeral or bereavement roles is preferred.
• Enthusiastic and proactive commitment to continuous improvement.
• Strong ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the delivery of mortuary services.
• Participate in the on-call rota for out-of-hours services.
• Support in autopsy procedures and maintain hygiene standards.

Skills

Mortuary or post-mortem experience

Time-management

Communication skills

Motivation for professional development

Education

Relevant qualifications in healthcare science

Job description

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us.
Please see below for detailed job description of the role.

Join a Forward-Thinking Mortuary Service at University Hospital Southampton

We are offering a unique opportunity for motivated individuals to join our dynamic and evolving mortuary team as Band 3 Trainee Anatomical Pathology Technicians. This is your chance to begin a rewarding career in a highly specialised and respected field within healthcare science.

As a trainee, you will embark on a structured, department-led training programme designed to build your skills and confidence in all aspects of Anatomical Pathology Technology. You’ll be actively involved in supporting both current and future service developments, becoming an integral part of a team that is nationally recognised for excellence.

Your Development Pathway

Successful candidates will progress through a comprehensive training framework, working towards the Royal Society of Public Health Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Science (Anatomical Pathology Technology). Upon completion and demonstration of further competencies, there may be the opportunity to advance to the Level 4 Diploma, further solidifying your role as a key contributor to the department.

Training will be delivered through a combination of in-house instruction and online attendance at a nationally accredited training centre, ensuring a well-rounded and robust learning experience.



University Hospital Southampton is one of England's largest acute teaching Trusts, offering a wide range of learning and development opportunities to support your career aspirations.

Located on the south coast with an international airport and direct rail links to London, Southampton offers an ideal setting to live and work, with the New Forest, South Downs and Jurassic Coast.

We believe that using technology wisely shows strong time management and commitment to innovation. However, personalizing your recruitment application to highlight your unique skills and experiences is crucial. Relying too heavily on generic, AI-generated content instead of drawing from your own strengths and accomplishments may lead to your application being rejected if multiple candidates present identical or similar information.

At UHSwe’re committed to providing a flexible working environment where possible. Whether you are balancing family, study, or your wellbeing with your career, we want to support you so you can help our patients.

At UHS, we proudly champion individuality, recognizing that outstanding care is only possible with a diverse, inclusive team. We’re committed to creating an anti-racist, anti-discriminatory environment where everyone feels valued, safe, and empowered to make a meaningful impact in our communities. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to join us in building a healthcare community where everyone can belong, thrive, and contribute.

Your Role

With full support and training, you will:

Assist in the delivery of a full mortuary service, including autopsy support and family viewings.
Participate in the on-call rota, providing out-of-hours services that mirror core operations.
Offer technical assistance during autopsies and provide advisory support as needed.
Help maintain high standards of hygiene, safety, and professionalism across all mortuary functions.

Why Join Us?

This is more than just a job—it’s a career pathway into a specialised and meaningful profession. You’ll be part of a team that is passionate about continuous improvement, education, and delivering compassionate care at every stage.

Join a Centre of Excellence in Anatomical Pathology Technology

Are you ready to take the next step in your healthcare science career? At University Hospital Southampton, we’re offering a unique opportunity to join one of Europe’s leading teaching hospitals and become part of a nationally recognised mortuary service.

As a successful applicant, you’ll embark on a structured training pathway leading to the Royal Society of Public Health Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Science (Anatomical Pathology Technology)—a key milestone in becoming a qualified Anatomical Pathology Technologist.

What You’ll Be Doing
You’ll play a vital role in delivering a high-quality mortuary service to the Trust, Hampshire, and regional coroners. Under expert supervision, you will:

Assist in routine autopsy procedures and progress toward specialised roles in pro-section and circulatory support.
Prepare patients for viewing and provide compassionate support to bereaved families.
Carry out clinical decontamination protocols and maintain essential mortuary equipment.
Contribute to End of Life care education and uphold the highest standards of dignity and professionalism.

We’re seeking individuals who are:

Experienced: Ideally with demonstrable mortuary or post-mortem experience. Funeral, bereavement, or HCA backgrounds may also be considered based on relevance and qualifications.
Motivated: Enthusiastic, proactive, and committed to continuous professional development.
Professional: Able to work independently and collaboratively, with excellent time-management and communication skills.
Driven: Passionate about contributing to the future of mortuary services and maintaining our award-winning standards.
Join a department that’s been recognised multiple times as Department of the Month and help shape the future of anatomical pathology.


This advert closes on Tuesday 22 Jul 2025