Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust

Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA)

This job is now closed

Job summary

We are looking for an enthusiastic person interested in laboratory work to join our busy, friendly team in Histopathology at Broomfield Hospital. This support role is vital to the smooth running of the department and includes assisting consultant histopathologists during specimen sampling, equipment maintenance, filing etc. A clean, methodical and tidy approach to work is important.

'In-house' training will be given, so no previous experience is necessary. However, it will be advantageous to have worked in a laboratory environment previously, especially in histology and some IT experience would be of benefit. This exciting and varied role could be exactly what you have been waiting for- the best career move you have ever made! There may be opportunities for further training if appropriate.

If you are interested in the role and believe you hold the qualities we require, then apply today!

Main duties of the job

Cellular Pathology at Broomfield Hospital is a busy department that incorporates Histology and Non-gynae sample preparations. The department handles approximately 30,000 specimens p.a. (including non-gynae cytology) and specialises in Breast; Head & Neck; and upper GI work and has close liaison with oncology research trials and Anglia Ruskin University.

The laboratory is working towards UKAS accreditation and is licensed by HTA.

Your main duties include but not limited to the following

- Under the supervision of Health Professions Council registered staff, process histological specimens for microscopic diagnosis, in accordance with departmental policies and standard operating procedures.
- To work as part of a team to provide a high quality, cost-effective Pathology Service, which meets the needs of the Trust.
- Undertake routine technical duties and assist with general clerical duties as required.

About us

Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust is now one of the largest in the country, with a workforce of approximately 15,000 who serve a population of 1.2 million people.

We work together, and in conjunction with MSE Health and Care Partnership, to deliver excellent local and specialist services, to improve the health and wellbeing of our patients in a compassionate way, and provide a respectful, but vibrant place for staff to develop, innovate and build careers.

From facilities through to consultant specialists we want to be the best, to achieve this we need to recruit not just those who are the finest in their field but also those who have the potential to be. Yes, experience is important but so is outlook - if you are dynamic, forward-thinking and enthusiastic we want you to join us.

We not only offer you a good working environment with flexible working opportunities, but also the opportunity to develop your career with access to appropriate training for your job and the support to succeed and progress

Date posted

03 October 2023

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 3

Salary

£22,816 a year Per Annum Pro Rata for Part Time

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time, Part-time

Reference number

390-CSS-BR-1217

Job locations

Broomfield

Court Road

Chelmsford

CM1 7ET

Job description

Job responsibilities

For full details about this varied and rewarding role, please see attached job description, but some of the responsibilities include

All technical work is performed under the supervision of Health Professions Council State registered staff.

Technical

To assist in the reception of specimens and sample preparation for analysis.

To participate on departmental rota, including assisting in cutup and microtomy.

To undertake the routine tissue preparation work of the department, under supervision and meeting quality standards.

To contribute to producing reports in a timely manner, meeting any deadlines necessary for further patient care and treatment.

To become competent in the use and maintenance of routine equipment used on a daily basis within the department.

Participate in data entry on to the Pathology database, including patient details and specimen test requests.

To store processed specimens in a safe manner according to departmental protocols and assist in their retrieval as necessary.

To undertake the safe disposal of reported specimens within the set timescales, as agreed by the departmental protocols.

To be responsible for the recycling and stock maintenance of specimen pots.

To assist Biomedical Scientists with routine technical duties and maintain a clean, tidy work area.

To assist with laboratory stores and maintenance of consumable stocks.

To perform any other duties commensurate with the grade and in the interest of the service, such as slide retrieval for weekly MDT case studies.

To maintain and promote effective communication within the laboratory team and between other MEHT staff, including porters, theatre staff, GPs and transport.

To conform to established policies and codes of practice within the department.

Work as part of a team to ensure the efficient running of the department and undertake duties as required by senior staff.

Prioritise urgent and emergency work and deal with specimen queries or problems, highlighting any errors to senior staff.

Staff Training

To actively participate in the Departmental Training Programme as appropriate and Performance Appraisal Scheme.

Responsible for maintaining a Personal Development folder as proof of competencies achieved.

To be flexible and provide cover for colleagues within capabilities and training.

To assist in the training of new MLA staff or those not familiar with a duty.

To supervise junior Medical Laboratory Assistants and assist in their development.

To be aware of developments within the department, Directorate and Trust.

To attend all mandatory training.