Specialist Biomedical Scientist, Microbiology (PF) in South Benfleet

We are expanding and are looking for an experienced Specialist Biomedical Scientist (BMS) who is ready to advance their career aspirations in a supportive and collaborative environment. At SYNLAB/Pathology First, we believe in building a strong, collaborative team where individuals are encouraged to grow with us, not just work for us.

We offer ongoing training and mentorship to help you further develop your existing skill set and advance within our organisation. We are proud to be the first lab in the UK to offer some of our BMS staff the opportunity to read bacterial cultures from home, using cutting-edge BD Kiestra Synapsys technology. This role is based at our Hub site.

Our Commitment to You: We understand that a great work environment is built on support and care. Our rewards package is designed to support your personal and professional well-being, including our incredible Wellbeing Allowance of up to £1500 per annum. External Candidates can earn up to £46,580 per annum depending on qualifications and experience and subject to agreement. Band 6 BMS participating in 24/7 service delivery including Night shifts and/or out of hours on-call will be eligible for a £10,000 joining bonus.

Main duties of the job: You will be a fundamental part of our close‐knit Microbiology team, providing an efficient and effective service to two general hospitals and the local GP community. In this role, you will:

• Perform and interpret routine and specialist biomedical investigations.
• Provide professional leadership to Trainee BMS, Associate Practitioners, Laboratory technicians, and MLAs.
• Offer technical advice to clinicians on the appropriateness of tests and timescales.
• Rotate through all areas of Microbiology, including:

• Automation Laboratory - Kiestra TLA, MRSA, and Urogenital Sections
• Manual Bacteriology CL3, Mycology, and Waste Management
• NAATs and urinalysis
• Serology

About us: SYNLAB UK & Ireland work closely with clinicians, hospitals, occupational health providers and clinical researchers to provide a complete pathology offering. We operate in increasingly diverse environments which is reflected in our workforce, clients, customers, suppliers, communities and partners. We believe an inclusive workplace culture is the best way to source, attract and retain diverse and talented people, and create a sustainable, high‐performing workforce.

We believe our staff are vital to the principle of making a positive difference to healthcare, therefore, we promote a culture of continuous personal development where scientists and staff have the support and resources to acquire new skills and build their careers through learning and development opportunities, coaching and clear career pathways. We promote an open and collaborative culture where leaders act as role models and facilitate a two‐way communication, engage with staff and stakeholders transparently and actively encourage feedback and suggestions.

We reserve the right to close any adverts once we have received a sufficient number of applications. If you decide to apply for this post but do not hear back from us within two weeks of your application, please assume that you have not been short‐listed on this occasion. SYNLAB UK & Ireland is a committed equal opportunities employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of any status or condition protected by applicable UK employment law.

Job responsibilities: Participate in and assist with clinical trials, the development of new tests and research & validation of equipment ensuring at all times compliance with all policies as required by regulatory directives, accreditation bodies and local management policies and practices. To provide technical advice to clinical staff. To perform and interpret routine and specialist biomedical investigations and to participate daily in the scientific and technical activities of the laboratory section under the supervision of senior staff. Together with Senior staff help ensure compliance with all policies as required by regulatory directives, accreditation bodies and local management, including MHRANHSCSPHTAHFEA United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) and any other body in area of responsibility.

Utilise the laboratory LIMS, Q‐Pulse quality monitoring system and other application software according to authorised protocols including assisting in computer data entry in all areas of the laboratory, document review, non‐conformance review and quality assurance processes. Communicate efficiently, courteously and with clarity at all times, whether face to face, telephone or electronic methods referring enquiries to senior staff where appropriate. Matters being communicated may include complex information and/or results. Attend and participate positively in laboratory and other meetings as directed by Laboratory senior staff. As directed by senior laboratory staff, plan and prioritise work allocations, training plans, audits of both yourself and junior staff, responding appropriately to the needs of routine and urgent activities. Encourage active participation in continuous professional development and support the introduction of new technologies and/or systems by being a change advocate. Report all incidents and adverse events to senior staff. Demonstrate on‐going competency against training plans and participate positively in CPD (continuous professional development) activities.

Other: Be an ambassador for Diversity and Inclusion. Communicate and role‐model the values and behaviours of SYNLAB. Undertake any other reasonable duty, when requested to do so by an appropriate manager. Complete all statutory, mandatory and essential training within timeframes specified.

Safety: Observe safety regulations and attend mandatory fire, manual handling and other courses as required. Report all incidents and adverse events to managers and assist in the investigations of any incidents. Participate in risk assessment monitoring. Ensure that the equipment within area of work is maintained and operated as per SOPs.

Person Specification: Qualifications: Biomedical Science degree or equivalent and evidence of CPD. HCPC registered, have at least 2 years post‐registration experience and have a Specialist portfolio or equivalent in Microbiology. We will consider applications from people nearing the completion of their specialist portfolio.

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.

£38,682 to £46,580 a year £10,000 joining bonus and £1,500 wellbeing allowance.