Trainee Laboratory and Administration Assistant / NHS Pathway Coordinator

Cellular Pathology Services; Watford; On-site; GBP 26,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading diagnostic and digital pathology provider in Watford is seeking a Trainee Laboratory and Administration Assistant. This entry-level role offers full training and significant opportunities for career growth in healthcare science. Candidates should have strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and proficiency in Microsoft Office. Responsibilities include supporting laboratory functions and managing patient specimens. Competitive salary of £25,700 per annum plus benefits.

Benefits

Health insurance

Pension plan

Annual performance bonus

Ongoing training and professional development

Qualifications

• Enthusiasm to build a career in healthcare science or digital pathology.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in data entry.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

Responsibilities

• Performing data entry, filing and document management to maintain accurate records.
• Receiving, logging, and packaging patient specimens safely.
• Supporting scanning and reviewing of digital images.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Microsoft Office expertise

Organisational skills

Interpersonal skills

Job description

Trainee Laboratory and Administration Assistant / NHS Pathway Coordinator

Join our team at Cellular Pathology Services, a leading provider of diagnostic and digital pathology solutions. This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated individual looking to begin or develop a rewarding career in healthcare science, combining administration and hands‑on laboratory support.

2 POSITIONS AVAILABLE

NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED – FULL TRAINING PROVIDED

This is an entry level position with significant opportunity for progression and growth. We welcome applications from those just starting their career in administration and will also strongly consider biomedical science graduates with the right attitude and aptitude.

If you’ve also worked in the following roles, we’d also like to hear from you: Laboratory Assistant, Pathology Administrator, Medical Laboratory Assistant, Healthcare Support Administrator, Specimen Reception Assistant, Healthcare Administrator

The site is not accessible by public transport, so having your own transport is essential.

SALARY: £25,700 per annum + Benefits (see below)

LOCATION: Watford, Hertfordshire

JOB TYPE: Full‑Time, Permanent

WORKING HOURS: 37.5 hours per week, operating on a shift pattern between 07:00 and 19:00

JOB OVERVIEW

At Cellular Pathology Services, we have an exciting opportunity for a Trainee Laboratory and Administration Assistant / NHS Pathway Coordinator (officially known as a Junior NHS Pathway Coordinator) to join our dedicated team based in Watford.

As a Trainee Laboratory and Administration Assistant / NHS Pathway Coordinator you will support both the administrative and laboratory functions of our digital pathology department, helping to ensure the efficient and accurate processing of patient samples.

This Trainee Laboratory and Administration Assistant / NHS Pathway Coordinator position is ideal for someone with strong organisational skills, a proactive attitude and a genuine interest in healthcare science and digital diagnostics.

ABOUT US

Cellular Pathology Services is an independent diagnostic pathology provider, working in partnership with the NHS and private healthcare organisations to deliver high‑quality histopathology and digital diagnostic services.

We pride ourselves on innovation, precision and patient‑centred care. Our purpose‑built facilities in Watford are equipped with state‑of‑the‑art digital scanning technology and advanced laboratory systems, supporting clinicians and pathologists across the UK.

As part of our team, you’ll be joining a forward‑thinking organisation that values learning, collaboration and continuous improvement. We invest in our people, promote from within, and foster a culture where every contribution helps improve patient outcomes.

WHY JOIN

Fast‑Track Career Growth: No previous experience is required – full training is provided to help you succeed and develop your career in healthcare science.

Impactful Work: You will play a vital role in supporting our biomedical and pathology teams, ensuring timely and accurate patient diagnoses.

Learning Opportunities: Enjoy a varied role combining administrative duties with hands‑on laboratory experience in a cutting‑edge digital environment.

Supportive Team Culture: Work alongside friendly, professional colleagues in a collaborative, positive and inclusive workplace.

Competitive Package: Receive a competitive starting salary, plus excellent benefits, health cover and access to ongoing training and progression opportunities.

DUTIES

Your duties as the Trainee Laboratory and Administration Assistant / NHS Pathway Coordinator include:

• Administrative Support: Performing data entry, filing and document management to maintain accurate laboratory records
• Sample Management: Receiving, logging and packaging patient specimens safely and in line with standard operating procedures
• Digital Pathology: Supporting the scanning and reviewing of digital images to ensure clarity and diagnostic quality
• Quality Assurance: Following all laboratory policies to maintain compliance and uphold service standards
• Team Assistance: Collaborating with pathologists and biomedical scientists to ensure workflow efficiency
• Database Management: Updating patient and case information using laboratory computer systems
• Health & Safety: Maintaining a clean, safe and organised work environment and following all safety protocols
• Professional Development: Engaging in ongoing training and supporting continuous improvement initiatives

CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS

ESSENTIAL

• Enthusiasm to build a career within healthcare science or digital pathology
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in data entry
• Confident using Microsoft Office, especially Word and Excel
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
• Organised, adaptable and able to prioritise tasks effectively
• Full UK driving licence and access to own transport
• Eligibility to work in the UK

DESIRABLE

• Previous experience in an administrative or healthcare support role
• Knowledge of laboratory computer systems or databases
• Audio typing or transcription experience
• Familiarity with specimen reception or clinical laboratory processes

BENEFITS

• Competitive salary of £25,700 per annum
• Health insurance and pension plan
• Annual performance bonus
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Supportive and collaborative team culture

This role requires a DBS check

NO AGENCIES PLEASE

HOW TO APPLY

To be considered for this job vacancy, please submit your CV to our Recruitment Team who will review your details.

JOB REF: AWDO-P14069

This job is being advertised by AWD online on behalf of Cellular Pathology Services

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