Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust

Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA)

The closing date is 24 January 2026

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!

Please be aware this may close early due to the number of applications.

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 University of Essex 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.

You will 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

Our ambition is to deliver excellent local and specialist services, to improve the health and well being of our patients, and provide a vibrant place for staff to develop, innovate and build careers.

We aim to make the most of our skills and experiences so we can become the best we can be. As one organisation we will recruit the finest and retain more specialist staff due to more employment opportunities across our Trust

Details

Date posted

20 January 2026

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 3

Salary

£24,937 a year Per Annum Pro Rata for Part Time

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

390-BR-CSS-9995

Job locations

Broomfield

Court Road

Chelmsford

CM1 7ET


Job description

Job responsibilities

Are you looking for an exciting role as our Medical Laboratory Assistantusing your unique qualities, then we want to hear from you?For full details about this varied and rewarding role, please see attached job description.We look forward to your application.

Job description

Job responsibilities

Are you looking for an exciting role as our Medical Laboratory Assistantusing your unique qualities, then we want to hear from you?For full details about this varied and rewarding role, please see attached job description.We look forward to your application.

Person Specification

Education/qualifications

Essential

  • NVQ/ GCSE basic numeracy and literacy

Desirable

  • A levels

Knowledge & Experience

Essential

  • Basic science background

Desirable

  • Previous laboratory experience. Data inputting experience.
  • NHS Experience
Person Specification

Education/qualifications

Essential

  • NVQ/ GCSE basic numeracy and literacy

Desirable

  • A levels

Knowledge & Experience

Essential

  • Basic science background

Desirable

  • Previous laboratory experience. Data inputting experience.
  • NHS Experience

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Employer details

Employer name

Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust

Address

Broomfield

Court Road

Chelmsford

CM1 7ET


Employer's website

https://www.mse.nhs.uk (Opens in a new tab)


Employer details

Employer name

Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust

Address

Broomfield

Court Road

Chelmsford

CM1 7ET


Employer's website

https://www.mse.nhs.uk (Opens in a new tab)


Employer contact details

For questions about the job, contact:

Histopathology Service Manager

Sika Phiri

sikangezile.phiri@nhs.net

03004432446

Details

Date posted

20 January 2026

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 3

Salary

£24,937 a year Per Annum Pro Rata for Part Time

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

390-BR-CSS-9995

Job locations

Broomfield

Court Road

Chelmsford

CM1 7ET


Supporting documents

Privacy notice

Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust's privacy notice (opens in a new tab)