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Associate Practitioner
The closing date is 19 October 2026
We are seeking applications from dedicated and enthusiastic AssociatePractitioners to join our microbiology team. The role is based at theUniversity Hospital of North Durham. We provide high quality, patient-focuseddiagnostic and screening services to healthcare providers across County Durham& Darlington.
This role requires a goodlaboratory skills and a knowledge of microbiology as the post holder will beexpected to rotate through different areas of the department includingbacteriology, serology, mycology and molecular diagnostics.
Main duties of the job
To be responsible for preparingand performing a wide range of laboratory pre-analytical and analytical testsusing microbiological laboratory techniques & equipment on a variety ofsamples that contribute to the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring ofinfectious diseases in accordance with standard operating procedures and agreedpolicies.
To perform clerical andlogistics duties to support the operation of the department.
To develop, maintain anddemonstrate competency in all sections of the microbiology department includingbacteriology, serology, mycology and molecular diagnostics.
To work with the laboratoryteam and quality management system to contribute towards a high quality serviceand continuous service improvement.
About us
If you are being interviewed you must accept an interview slot in the system to continue, even if you have arranged with the manager.
You must be able to produce ALL certificates stated essential in the person specification or you will not be able to complete pre-employment checks.
We provide hospital services from two acute sites - Darlington Memorial Hospital and University Hospital of North Durham. We have a centre for planned care in Bishop Auckland and provide care from community hospitals in Chester-le-Street, Shotley Bridge, Barnard Castle, Sedgefield and Weardale as well as over 80 other community based settings and providing care in patients' homes.
We particularly welcome applications from disabled and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates as BAME and disabled people are currently under-represented.
Full Job Descriptions can be found in the adverts supporting documents.
Over reliance onAI-generated content is discouraged and may diminish the applicant's chances ofsuccess.
Job responsibilities
The post holder will haveattained the IBMS Certificate of Achievement Part 2, NVQ3 or Foundation degreein a healthcare science. Alternatively, demonstration of equivalent experienceand competency at this level may be considered. This role requires a good levelof laboratory skills and a keen interest in microbiology
AssociatePractitioners working in our department must be able to use their knowledge andanalytical skills to work alongside Biomedical Scientists to deliver highquality results. Previous experience in a diagnostic microbiology laboratory isdesirable.
The department is UKAS(ISO15189) accredited and a knowledge & experience of good qualitymanagement systems is desirable.
The successful candidateshould also be able to demonstrate an ability to work within a team to delivera high quality service. Good communication and interpersonal skills areessential.
The ability to work on a 24/7 shift rota which includes day shifts, late shifts,night shifts, weekends & bank holidays is a requirement of the post.
Person Specification
Experience
- Experience in a diagnostic laboratory
- Experience in diagnostics microbiology or virology in an NHS or UKHSA laboratory. Supervisory experience. Employment with public interaction.
Special Requirements
- Ability to work flexibly and participate in 24/7 working rota pattern.
Special Skills & Knowledge
- Ability to follow protocols and instructions accurately. Manual dexterity. Good communication skills. Follow protocols and instructions accurately. Computer literacy. Knowledge of scientific / medical terminology
- Problem solving and trouble-shooting skills. Knowledge of quality management systems. Ability to organise and prioritise own workload.
Qualifications
- NVQ3 in Health (pathology stream) or Foundation degree in Healthcare Practice or equivalent. Certificate of Achievement Part 2 or demonstration of equivalent competency. Science and / or Maths GCSE
- Evidence of ongoing CPD
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 name
County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust
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Associate Practitioner in North East employer: Cddft
At County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment for our Specialty Doctors in Emergency Medicine. Our commitment to professional development is evident through flexible working hours, opportunities for research funding, and a culture that encourages continuous learning and collaboration within a dedicated team. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the community while advancing your career in a vibrant healthcare setting.
