Assistant Technical Officer (ATO)

Assistant Technical Officer (ATO)

Milton Keynes Full-Time 24000 - 36000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our lab team to process samples, assist in dissections, and maintain equipment.
  • Company: Milton Keynes University Hospital is a leading teaching hospital focused on patient care and innovation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy training opportunities, a supportive environment, and the chance to grow your career.
  • Why this job: Be part of a friendly team making a real impact in cancer diagnostics and patient care.
  • Qualifications: GCSEs in Science, Maths, and English or NVQ level 3; good communication and IT skills required.
  • Other info: Exciting growth with new facilities and services coming soon!

The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.

The successful candidates will participate in core laboratory duties including receiving and processing patient\\\’s samples, data entry, assisting at tissue dissection, equipment operation and maintenance, managing laboratory waste disposal and microtomy among other tasks. Training will be given to achieve competency.

\\\’We care We communicate We collaborate We contribute\\\’

  • To support the delivery of a high quality, responsive and comprehensive Cellular Pathology service for the trust and its users.
  • To be part of a team of Biomedical Support workers delivering technical and administrative support to ensure the provision of an efficient and effective diagnostic service.
  • To work with the laboratory management and technical team to ensure compliance with regulatory standards including those of ISO 15189, the Human Tissue Authority (HTA) and screening programmes.
  • Help the Cellular Pathology team to meet departmental and trust KPI\\\’s.
  • To work safely in accordance with trust health and safety policy and departmental policies to deliver a safe, high-quality service for its users.
  • To comply with clinical governance and risk management policies and ensure all mandatory training is completed in accordance with the trust guidelines

We are looking for competent and versatile individuals with a positive \\\’can do\\\’ attitude who are willing to learn new skills to join our team in the role of Assistant Technical Officer (ATO). Ideally you will have GCSEs in Science, Maths, and English, and/or an NVQ level 3 or equivalent level qualification or qualifications with a laboratory relevance. In addition to this, you must also have good verbal and written communication skills, have basic IT skills, enjoy working individually and as part of a team and be able to manage some lifting and handling tasks.

Cellular Pathology is a busy but friendly department processing more than 22,000 histology specimens and 1200 cytology specimens per year and plays a vital role in the Trust\\\’s diagnostics cancer service., Milton Keynes University Hospital, in proud partnership with the University of Buckingham, is a University Teaching Hospital committed to advancing patient care through cutting-edge research and education. With a \”Good\” rating from the CQC and significant investment underway, this is an exciting time to join our team and grow your career.

As a medium sized general hospital, we provide a full range of general medical and surgical services, including a busy Emergency Department, Maternity, and Paediatrics. As the population of our city and surrounding areas continues to grow rapidly, we are expanding and enhancing our facilities to meet rising demand and improve access to care for all our communities.

We are also proud to offer a growing portfolio of specialist services. In January 2025 we opened our state-of-the-art Radiotherapy Centre, bringing advanced cancer treatment closer to home. Our services also include neonatology, specialist surgical care, and a wide range of diagnostics, supported by the new Community Diagnostic Centre at Whitehouse Health Centre.

Further investment is underway, including the construction of Oak Wards – a new ward block featuring two 24-bed wards – and the recently approved Women and Children\\\’s Centre, set to open by 2030.

Visit our website to explore the latest news and opportunities at MKUH – News – Milton Keynes University Hospital –

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Assistant Technical Officer (ATO) employer: Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Milton Keynes University Hospital is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture where employees are encouraged to grow and develop their skills. With a commitment to high-quality patient care and significant investment in state-of-the-art facilities, including the upcoming Women and Children's Centre, staff have the opportunity to be part of a dynamic team that plays a vital role in advancing healthcare services in the community. The hospital's partnership with the University of Buckingham further enhances professional development opportunities for all employees.
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Contact Detail:

Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Assistant Technical Officer (ATO)

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of the Assistant Technical Officer role. Understanding tasks like sample processing and equipment maintenance will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with current or former employees in the Cellular Pathology department. They can provide insights into the team culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your willingness to learn new skills by researching relevant laboratory techniques and regulations, such as ISO 15189 and HTA compliance. This will highlight your proactive attitude to potential employers.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare questions to ask during your interview that reflect your interest in the role and the department. Inquiring about training opportunities or team dynamics can show your enthusiasm for joining the team.

We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Technical Officer (ATO)

Laboratory Techniques
Data Entry Skills
Equipment Operation and Maintenance
Microtomy Skills
Health and Safety Compliance
ISO 15189 Knowledge
Human Tissue Authority (HTA) Compliance
Communication Skills
Teamwork
Problem-Solving Skills
Attention to Detail
Basic IT Skills
Time Management
Adaptability
Ability to Lift and Handle Equipment

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the core responsibilities of the Assistant Technical Officer. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with tasks such as data entry, equipment operation, and compliance with regulatory standards.

Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect the qualifications and skills mentioned in the job description. Emphasise your GCSEs in Science, Maths, and English, or any relevant NVQ qualifications, along with your communication and IT skills.

Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Mention your 'can do' attitude and willingness to learn new skills, as well as your ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a laboratory setting.

How to prepare for a job interview at Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

✨Understand the Role

Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the core responsibilities of an Assistant Technical Officer. Familiarise yourself with tasks like sample processing, data entry, and equipment maintenance, as these will likely come up during the interview.

✨Show Your Team Spirit

Since the role involves working closely with a team, be prepared to discuss your experiences in collaborative environments. Highlight instances where you've successfully worked with others to achieve a common goal, showcasing your ability to communicate and contribute effectively.

✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn

The job requires a positive 'can do' attitude and a willingness to learn new skills. Be ready to share examples of how you've embraced learning opportunities in the past, whether through formal training or on-the-job experiences.

✨Prepare for Technical Questions

Given the technical nature of the role, brush up on relevant laboratory practices and regulations, such as ISO 15189 and the Human Tissue Authority guidelines. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will demonstrate your preparedness and commitment to compliance.

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