Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in operating automated analysers and processing patient samples in a dynamic lab environment.
- Company: Join University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, a leading healthcare provider focused on innovation and patient care.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, career development opportunities, and a vibrant city lifestyle.
- Why this job: Be part of a dedicated team making a real impact on patient health and well-being.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Science, Maths & English or equivalent experience; strong communication and organisational skills required.
- Other info: Diversity is valued; applications from all backgrounds are encouraged.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
The post holder will work together with senior staff and support staff in all sections of the laboratory to produce a timely, high quality, accurate and cost effective services. The post holder will support the timely processing of patient samples serving all those patients attending PHNT, PCTs representing 100 General Practices and specialist assays referred to us from other Trusts within the Peninsula. Going forward as UHP Pathology department works to deliver its vision then there will be an expectation of interdepartmental working across various Pathology departments.
Main duties of the job:
- To assist with the operation of the Automated Track and HbA1c analysers in the Biochemistry section, including maintenance, troubleshooting and patient sample analysis.
- To partake in Automated Chemistry stock checks and reagent management.
- To replenish consumables in the Automated Chemistry Section.
- To follow Standard Operating Procedures relating to each section/area.
- To be available for the 24/7 rota and EWD/Weekend rota in Reception/Automation.
- To prepare biological material collected from patients, including blood samples for analysis and analyse these following a Standard Operating Procedures.
- To assist Reception as and when required with the receipt of samples, sample preparation, request data entry and to make and receive telephone calls from other healthcare staff.
Job responsibilities:
- To carry out all morning maintenance on analysers/track.
- Process samples according to the most recent SOP in each section.
- Ensure all areas are tidy and clean.
- Keep all documents associated with each section up to date (Checklists and Q-Pulse).
- Working together with colleagues, ensure the reception area delivers a timely processing of samples and test requests by assisting when necessary.
- To perform Work File Enquiries in each section and collecting any outstanding samples for analysis.
- Ensure senior staff are made aware when stock levels are low.
- To use office equipment including computers, printers, fax machines and photocopiers.
- To use the laboratory IT system to input results of tests and to deal with enquiries for results, and to use the Trust PIMS system in order to look up patient details.
- To operate complex laboratory analysers in order to carry out investigations.
- Will assist senior staff in the training of new staff.
- Assist in the receipt, processing and storage of all samples derived from clinical trials including those for which the department derives income.
- Remove samples and request forms from their plastic bags whilst checking the data on the sample matches that on the request form.
- To bring to the attention of senior staff all rejected samples due to inadequate patient ID or incorrect sample type for the test requested, or to contact the necessary persons, in accordance with the SOP for the area, to resolve any non-compliance with policy.
Person Specification:
Knowledge & Experience- Essential: Proven understanding of need for patient confidentiality; Proven knowledge of Health & Safety issues; Use of IT equipment including a keyboard.
- Desirable: Proven knowledge of tests performed and sent away by the department; Proven knowledge of all relevant Health & Safety legislation and its application to the Section; Proven technical skills in a Pathology laboratory.
- Essential: GCSE's grades A-C/4-9 or above in Science, Maths & English or equivalent level of qualification/ equivalent demonstrable experience; Good basic numeracy and literacy skills.
- Desirable: Appropriate NVQ in either Business and Admin or laboratory based.
- Essential: Excellent communication skills, being able to deal with staff at all levels of the organisation and patients with tact and diplomacy; Ability to effectively organise and prioritise own work; Attention to detail.
- Desirable: Good interpersonal skills; Working proven knowledge of PIMS; Working proven knowledge of relevant laboratory information management systems.
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.
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications.
Assistant Technical Officer (ATO) - Automated Chemistry employer: University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust
Contact Detail:
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Technical Officer (ATO) - Automated Chemistry
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific laboratory equipment mentioned in the job description, such as Automated Track and HbA1c analysers. Understanding how these machines operate and their maintenance requirements will give you an edge during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Reach out to current or former employees of the University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust to gain insights into the work culture and expectations. This can help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the possibility of a laboratory tour if shortlisted. Use this opportunity to ask questions about daily operations and show your enthusiasm for the role by engaging with staff and demonstrating your eagerness to contribute.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight any relevant experience you have in a laboratory setting, especially regarding patient sample processing and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures. Be ready to discuss specific examples that showcase your attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Technical Officer (ATO) - Automated Chemistry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Assistant Technical Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience in laboratory settings, particularly with automated analysers or similar equipment. Mention specific tasks you've performed that relate to the job duties outlined in the description.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role requires excellent communication skills, provide examples in your application of how you've effectively communicated with colleagues and patients in past roles. This could include teamwork, training new staff, or handling patient inquiries.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to follow all application instructions carefully. If the job posting mentions specific documents or formats, ensure you adhere to these requirements. This shows attention to detail, which is crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities of the Assistant Technical Officer role. Familiarise yourself with the specific tasks, such as operating analysers and maintaining patient confidentiality, so you can discuss how your skills align with these requirements.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to be asked about your technical knowledge related to automated chemistry and laboratory procedures. Brush up on relevant Health & Safety legislation and standard operating procedures (SOPs) that are applicable to the role, as this will demonstrate your preparedness and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves working with various staff members and patients, highlight your communication skills during the interview. Be ready to provide examples of how you've effectively communicated in previous roles, especially in high-pressure situations or when dealing with sensitive information.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could include inquiries about the team dynamics, opportunities for professional development, or how the department plans to innovate in the future. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
