Biomedical Assistant - Microbiology in Leicester

An exciting opportunity has come up within the Microbiology department at Leicester Royal Infirmary for a Biomedical Assistant. This is a varied and interesting role with great learning opportunities for someone interested in Microbiology. You must possess excellent communication skills and be able to work accurately and methodically following written protocols.

Main duties of the job:

• To demonstrate a basic understanding of what tests are performed and why they are performed.
• Perform basic laboratory analytical assays or techniques according to the department's Standard Operating Procedures.
• Participate in other laboratory based activities including Quality Assurance systems and the maintenance, calibration and use of laboratory instrumentation.
• Assist in the coordination and training of MLA/BMA staff as appropriate.
• Demonstrate laboratory procedures to colleagues as part of the Directorate training programme.

Job responsibilities:

• To carry out, under supervision by qualified staff, routine tasks in the laboratory which do not require the interpretive skills or training to become a Registered Biomedical Scientist.
• To rotate between the sections of the laboratory as required.
• To assist in the provision of a microbiological service that is of high quality and cost effective for clinical, environmental, research and training purposes.
• Undertake laboratory-based work including the analysis of samples using various technologies.
• Perform sample reception duties including the receipt, barcode labelling and preparation of samples for analysis.
• Perform clerical tasks including data input of patient demographics and test request information.
• Perform general housekeeping duties including maintaining stock levels, general cleaning and waste disposal.
• Support the Quality management team, taking a lead in the day to day quality activities within the laboratory setting.

Training & Qualifications:

• Educated to secondary level including Maths and English language.
• Currently working as Band 2 (BMA).
• Studied science at secondary level.
• IT or keyboard qualification. RSA1 or equivalent.

Experience:

• Experience of working in a team.
• IT / Keyboard Skills.
• Demonstrates active participation and awareness of quality management systems and service improvement.
• Able to demonstrate competency in appropriate laboratory techniques.
• General house-keeping duties.
• Awareness of H&S issues.
• Training inexperienced staff.

Communication and relationship skills:

• Ability to write legibly and unambiguously.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely by telephone and in person.
• Ability to understand and act upon basic instructions.
• Previous telephone experience with confident telephone manner.

Analytical and Judgement skills:

• Ability to work accurately and methodically following written protocols.
• Experience of troubleshooting appropriate laboratory instrumentation.
• Evidence of previous work involving accuracy and attention to detail.

Skills:

• Evidence of social and team working skills.
• Physical ability to carry out the lifting and handling tasks required by the role.
• Manual Dexterity.
• Familiar with healthcare IT systems.

Planning and organisation skills:

• Ability to prioritise own work and others.
• Evidence of ability to work under pressure or to a deadline.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion:

• Able to demonstrate a commitment to and understanding of the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect appropriate to their individual needs.
• All staff are expected to engage in compassionate and inclusive leadership in the provision of high quality care and interactions with others.

Other requirements specific to the role:

• Desire to work in a laboratory environment.
• Enthusiasm to learn.
• Willingness to work flexibly.

Commitment to Trust Values and Behaviours:

• Must be able to demonstrate behaviours consistent with the Trust's Values and Behaviours.

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.