At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Microbiology team to process clinical specimens and support vital healthcare services.
- Company: BHR University Hospitals Trust, a diverse and inclusive NHS organisation.
- Benefits: Part-time hours, formal training, and opportunities for personal development.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; join a supportive and friendly team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in healthcare while gaining valuable lab experience.
- Qualifications: A-Level or NVQ Level 3 in a science-related subject preferred.
Overview
PEOPLE are at the HEART of everything we do
This video gives a flavour of what it is like to work at our Trust and why some of our staff love working here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lePIUCfMPLk
Job overview
We are looking for part-time ( Saturday, Sunday and Monday: 22.5 hours/week) staff member who is enthusiastic, well-motivated, and reliable individual to join our friendly team in the Microbiology Department at BHR University Hospitals Trust. The department operates across two sites: Queen\'s Hospital in Romford and King George Hospital in Goodmayes. While the primary base will be Queens Hospital, the successful candidate will also be required to work at King George Hospital as needed.
Applicants should possess A-Level or NVQ Level 3 qualifications ideally in a science-related subject or have equivalent experience in a similar role. You must be computer literate, able to follow standard operating procedures, and demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills, along with a keen willingness to learn.
The successful candidate will receive formal training both within the Trust and the Microbiology Department. Ongoing performance will be monitored through regular appraisals and laboratory-based competency assessments.
The role involves working across sections of the laboratory on a rotational basis and weekend duties, however initially for training purposes you will be working 3 weekdays before you start the weekend duties.
As a busy department, we require team members who are flexible and collaborative to help us manage and process a high daily workload efficiently. The post also involves working flexible hours during the week, as well as weekends and bank holidays.
Main duties of the job
The post holder will receive, prepare and process clinical specimens for testing, within standard operating procedures. She / he / they will work in all areas of the laboratory on a rotational basis, including cross-site working between Queen\'s Hospital and King George Hospital. Specimen processing will include manual methods and basic maintenance, loading and trouble-shooting of analysers within the boundary of the role. The post holder will be expected to undertake regular competence assessment to assure delivery of a high quality service and facilitate personal development.
Working for our organisation
We\'re an organisation that is getting better and better and our improvements are driven by a determination to deliver care we\'re proud of and our patients are happy with. We\'re no longer in special measures; we\'ve opened two new theatres at our Elective Surgical Hub in King George Hospital (KGH); and Matthew Trainer, our Chief Executive, has been named the top CEO by the Health Service Journal.
We operate from two main sites - KGH in Goodmayes and Queen\'s Hospital in Romford. We have two busy emergency departments with more than 330,000 people visiting them last year. We\'re campaigning to secure the £35m we need to transform the A&E at Queen\'s and get rid of corridor care.
Our patients are benefitting from our Women\'s Health Hub in Ilford; an Ageing Well Centre in Hornchurch; and Community Diagnostic Centres (CDC) at Barking Community Hospital and at St George\'s Health and Wellbeing Hub in Hornchurch.
These CDCs are open 12 hours a day, 7 days a week and are providing an extra 88,000 scans a year.
The majority of our 8,000 staff - who come from 146 different countries - live in the three diverse London boroughs we serve and are from black, Asian and minority ethnic groups. Many can work flexibly and more than 400 of them are on our Ofsted accredited apprenticeship programmes. We\'re proud to be a London Living Wage employer.
We\'re looking forward to introducing an electronic patient record that will be transformative for our staff and beneficial for our patients.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
For further information on this role, please see the attached detailed Job Description and Person Specification.
The person specification listed below is not the full specification requirements for the role. Please ensure you review the full specification on the job description prior to submitting your application.
Applicants are advised to read all the information on the advert and the supporting information before completing and submitting an application. As you complete your application please ensure you clearly demonstrate how you meet the criteria in the person specification for this post by adequately completing the supporting information section of the application form.
All new staff appointed at the Trust are subject to a probationary period.
Applications should be made online, however, queries regarding the application process, assistance with completion of the application form or if you require any adjustments (for applicants with a disability) please contact Amanda Vickers, Recruitment Advisor, on 01708 435000 ext. 5926. Further details regarding the post may be obtained by contacting the manager as per the contact details above.
Person specification
Experience/Qualifications
Essential criteria
- A Level/ NVQ3 level of knowledge or equivalent level of experience in a similar role
Desirable criteria
- Progress to a degree entry qualification
Experience/Knowledge
Essential criteria
- Minimum of 2 years\' experience working in a Microbiology laboratory
Desirable criteria
- Experience working in a NHS laboratory
Skills/Abilities
Essential criteria
- Effective time-management and ability to prioritise urgent requests
Desirable criteria
- Experience of working within a molecular laboratory
Ensuring people settle in and feel part of our Trust straight away is one of our top priorities. We hold two corporate welcome events each month and, if successful, you will start on one of these days so we can provide you with a seamless and welcoming introduction to our Trust.
We believe that providing the highest quality of care, is about having the best people, inspired and supported by the best leaders, and backed by the best training and career development opportunities. Our vision is to provide outstanding healthcare to our community, delivered with pride. It is driven by our PRIDE values and behaviours which were developed together with our staff.
Barking Havering and Redbridge University Hospital NHS Trust is committed to Safeguarding Children and Adults at Risk and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults is central to the care provided by our Trust and the post holder must be aware of their responsibilities and work in line with our Trust\'s Safeguarding Adult and Children Procedures.
All salaries are inclusive of standard allowances e.g. High Cost Area for staff on Agenda for Change contracts.
To create an inclusive and diverse workplace, we will work with you to get the best experience, so that you can provide outstanding care for our local community. We are happy to have an open discussion on part-time hours and flexible working and will consider your requirements if our service is able to accommodate. Please have discussion with the recruiting manager about your flexibility requirements.
All correspondence regarding this application will be by e-mail, please check as some emails may fall into your junk folder.
Please ensure that the references are from your most recent employer and one of these must be your direct Line Manager or Supervisor. Additionally, ensure that any gaps in your employment history are clearly indicated. Please ensure business/organisation email addresses are provided for all referees.
Barking, Havering, and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust (BHRUT) uses TrustID identification technology to verify essential documents, such as passports and driving licenses. All new employees will be expected to have their original documents verified through TrustID.
In line with UKVI guidelines BHRUT is unable to provide a Certificate of Sponsorship for Band 2 or Band 3 positions.
We may close vacancies prior to the advertised closing date once a sufficient number of applications have been received and to support with streamlining the recruitment process.
Unfortunately due to the large number of applications that the Trust receives for some posts, it is not possible to reply to every unsuccessful application.
If you have not received a response within 3 weeks of the closing date of an advert, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful.
Trust buildings and grounds became fully Smoke Free on National No Smoking Day 11th March 2015. The Trust expects all staff to promote healthy living and to set good examples in their own behaviour. Those not ready to quit smoking must remain smoke free during working hours, and will not be able to smoke in Trust uniform, in Trust grounds including car parks, while driving on Trust business or take smoking breaks. Second hand smoke causes heart and lung disease, and is harmful to young children. However, disposable or rechargeable e-cigarettes (\"vaping\") may be used outside hospital buildings.
We are an equal opportunity employer welcoming applications from all sections of the community and welcomes applications from people wishing to job-share, either with or without a partner. Applicants who consider themselves to have a disability (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) will be shortlisted for interview if they meet the essential criteria. We also operate strict screening procedures for posts with access to vulnerable adults and children.
Employer certification / accreditation badges
Application numbers
This vacancy may close early if it receives a high number of applications. Please complete and submit your application in good time to avoid disappointment.
Documents to download
- Job Description & Person Specification (PDF, 808.3KB)
- Policy Statement - Ex Offenders (PDF, 104.6KB)
- Our Annual Goals (PDF, 1.2MB)
- Candidate Journey (PDF, 186.7KB)
Band 3 Medical Laboratory Assistant - Microbiology (Part Time) in Romford employer: Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals
At Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, we prioritise our people, fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values diversity and collaboration. As a part-time Medical Laboratory Assistant in Microbiology, you will benefit from comprehensive training, flexible working hours, and opportunities for personal development, all while contributing to the delivery of high-quality healthcare in a dynamic environment across two key hospital sites in London. Join us in our mission to provide outstanding care to our community, backed by our commitment to employee growth and well-being.
Contact Details:
Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Band 3 Medical Laboratory Assistant - Microbiology (Part Time) in Romford
✨Dive into Professional Networks
Check out local professional associations in health sciences. They often host networking events where you can meet people already working in the field and may even hear about part-time opportunities before they’re advertised!
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If you’re still studying or recently graduated, don’t forget to make the most of your university’s career services. They frequently post part-time openings and may even know of some tailored for health sciences students.
✨Volunteer for Extra Experience
Consider volunteering at healthcare facilities or community health organisations. It’s a great way to gain relevant experience, build your network, and may lead directly to part-time job offers. Plus, it looks fantastic on your CV!
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We think you need these skills to ace Band 3 Medical Laboratory Assistant - Microbiology (Part Time) in Romford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV to the Health Sciences Field:When you're applying for a part-time role in health sciences administration at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals, make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in the healthcare sector. Include any internships or volunteer work in health settings, and showcase skills like organisation, communication, and familiarity with healthcare regulations. This will help us see how you fit into the team right from the get-go!
Highlight Your Administrative Skills:In the health sciences arena, administrative skills are crucial. Make sure to showcase experiences where you managed schedules, maintained records, or supported healthcare professionals in their tasks. Be specific about the tools and tools or software you’ve used, as this can set you apart from other candidates.
Emphasise Your Learning Mindset:For a part-time role like this, we’re looking for someone eager to learn and grow. Your cover letter is the perfect place to express your motivation for getting into health sciences administration. Share your career goals and what excites you about this field—passion often makes a lasting impression!
Apply Through Our Website!:Don't forget to complete your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to track your application and ensures you get all the relevant updates. Plus, we’ve streamlined the process to make it as smooth as possible—you've got this!
How to prepare for a job interview at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals
✨Show Off Your Organisation Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key! Be ready to discuss how you manage multiple tasks and prioritise your work. Maybe share a story from your past where you successfully managed a heavy workload or improved a process – it’ll show how you can handle the part-time role effectively at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals.
✨Brush Up on Relevant Software
You’ll likely be using specific health administration software, so get familiar with tools like Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems or practice management software. If you’ve had experience with any of these, be sure to highlight that during your interview, it’ll set you apart from other candidates.
✨Display Your Flexibility and Availability
Since this is a part-time role, be prepared to discuss your availability and how you plan to manage your time effectively. It’s crucial for employers to see that you're flexible and can fit into their schedule – be proactive in demonstrating your readiness to adapt to their needs at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals.
✨Highlight Your Passion for Healthcare
Express your genuine interest in health sciences and how you want to contribute to the wellbeing of the community. Sharing a personal story or motivation that led you to apply for this specific role at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals can really resonate with interviewers and show your commitment to the field.
