Medical Laboratory Assistant
Medical Laboratory Assistant

Medical Laboratory Assistant

Kilmarnock Full-Time 24000 - 36000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
N

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support scientific staff by processing specimens and distributing lab supplies.
  • Company: Join NHS Ayrshire and Arran, dedicated to health and community well-being.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work culture with ongoing training and career development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while working in a caring and respectful environment.
  • Qualifications: Must have a science-based qualification at SVQ Level 3 or HNC level.
  • Other info: Flexible shift patterns including nights and weekends; driving licence required.

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

NHS Scotland is committed to encouraging equality and diversity among our workforce and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our workforce to be truly representative and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best. To this end, NHS Scotland welcomes applications from all sections of society.

Who We Are

NHS Ayrshire and Arran is one of 14 territorial NHS Boards within NHS Scotland. In support of our core purpose of Working together to achieve the healthiest life possible for everyone in Ayrshire and Arran we are committed to a culture that is Caring, Safe, and Respectful. You will be required to work collaboratively in a safe, caring and respectful way.

Position

An exciting opportunity has arisen for x2 Medical Laboratory Assistants based at University Hospital Crosshouse.

What You Will Do

  • You will provide support to the scientific staff of the department by performing essential pre-analytical processing and post-analytical disposal of specimens.
  • You will be responsible for distributing laboratory consumables to wards, clinics and surgeries.
  • When there are visitors to the laboratory, you will greet them on their arrival and either help them directly or pass them on to the relevant person.
  • You will respond to clinical staff requests for biochemical investigations by the accurate, precise, consistent, safe and speedy processing of patient specimens, and do everything possible to ensure patient safety and confidentiality by following laid down procedures.
  • One of the posts will, after a period of training, be required to participate in the full departmental shift working arrangements. This will involve working early, late, overnight and weekend shifts. Please note that during overnight periods, you will be the only MLA on shift but will be working in parallel with Biomedical Scientist staff.

Knowledge, Training And/or Experience Required To Do The Job

  • Educated as a minimum in a science based qualification to SVQ Level 3 or HNC level.
  • Good general knowledge required.
  • On appointment will undergo a period of training, and must complete an extensive departmental training programme where you will acquire knowledge of clinical biochemistry test names and specimen types, and safety procedures.
  • Ongoing training including mandatory updates and refresher courses.
  • You will be required to complete the mandatory Health Care Support Worker Workbook.

Hours

  • Post 1: 37 hours per week, this post will be required to work within the 24/7 shift pattern.
  • Post 2: 22.2 hours per week.

Please state on your application what post/role you would be interested in.

Driving Licence/Car Ownership

A car licence/car ownership is essential to this role.

If you would like to find out more about the role, please contact Stephen Mallon at Stephen.mallon@aapct.scot.nhs.uk

Additional Information For Overseas Candidates

To work in the United Kingdom, there is a legal requirement for an individual to demonstrate that they have the relevant permission to work in the country. This permission is, without exception, granted by the UK Visa and Immigrations Service. It is ESSENTIAL that you have checked that you either already have an appropriate right to work in the UK or that the post would be eligible to be sponsored BEFORE submitting your application form.

Additional Information For All Candidates

You should apply for this post by completing the application process on JobTrain. DO NOT upload a CV as this will not be used for shortlisting purposes. Posts close at midnight on the indicated date. Late applications will not be accepted.

Please note that our correspondence method is by email, therefore please ensure you enter your email address accurately. Please check your email regularly (including junk folders) and also your JobTrain account for updates.

We recommend using the Internet Browser 'Google Chrome' or 'Microsoft Edge' when using JobTrain. Once you have submitted your application form you will be unable to make any amendments.

NHS Ayrshire and Arran has a legal obligation to ensure that it does not employ any worker who has not been granted the relevant permission to work in the UK. This permission is, without exception, granted by UK Visas and Immigrations. We are required to check the entitlement to work in the UK of all prospective employees, regardless of nationality or job category.

Medical Laboratory Assistant employer: NHS Scotland

NHS Ayrshire and Arran is an exceptional employer that prioritises a caring, safe, and respectful work culture, ensuring that every employee feels valued and empowered to contribute to the health of the community. With a commitment to ongoing training and professional development, employees have ample opportunities for growth within the organisation, all while working in a supportive environment at the University Hospital Crosshouse. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of those in Ayrshire and Arran.
N

Contact Detail:

NHS Scotland Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Medical Laboratory Assistant

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific duties of a Medical Laboratory Assistant. Understanding the pre-analytical and post-analytical processes will help you demonstrate your knowledge during any interviews or discussions.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with current or former employees of NHS Ayrshire and Arran. They can provide insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your application.

✨Tip Number 3

Highlight your flexibility regarding shift patterns in conversations or interviews. Since the role requires working various shifts, showing that you're adaptable can set you apart from other candidates.

✨Tip Number 4

Research NHS Scotland's commitment to equality and diversity. Being able to discuss how you align with these values can demonstrate your fit within their organisational culture.

We think you need these skills to ace Medical Laboratory Assistant

Knowledge of clinical biochemistry test names
Specimen processing techniques
Attention to detail
Ability to follow safety procedures
Strong communication skills
Teamwork and collaboration
Time management skills
Ability to work under pressure
Customer service skills
Adaptability to shift patterns
Basic computer skills for data entry
Understanding of health and safety regulations
Confidentiality and patient safety awareness
Problem-solving skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Medical Laboratory Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these expectations.

Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Make sure to emphasise your science-based qualifications, such as SVQ Level 3 or HNC level. Include any relevant training or experience that demonstrates your ability to perform pre-analytical and post-analytical tasks.

Follow Application Instructions: Pay close attention to the application process outlined in the job posting. Remember, you should not upload a CV, as it will not be used for shortlisting. Complete the application form on JobTrain as instructed.

Check Your Contact Information: Ensure that your email address is entered correctly in the application form. Regularly check your email (including junk folders) and your JobTrain account for updates regarding your application status.

How to prepare for a job interview at NHS Scotland

✨Understand the Role

Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Medical Laboratory Assistant. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the tasks mentioned, such as specimen processing and patient safety.

✨Show Your Commitment to Safety

Since patient safety and confidentiality are crucial in this role, be ready to talk about your understanding of safety procedures and how you would ensure compliance. Share any relevant experiences where you prioritised safety in a previous role.

✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills

This position requires collaboration with scientific staff and other healthcare professionals. Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked in a team environment, highlighting your ability to communicate effectively and support colleagues.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask questions that show your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about the training programme or how the department fosters a caring and respectful culture, which aligns with NHS Scotland's values.

Medical Laboratory Assistant
NHS Scotland
N
  • Medical Laboratory Assistant

    Kilmarnock
    Full-Time
    24000 - 36000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-06-19

  • N

    NHS Scotland

Similar positions in other companies
UK’s top job board for Gen Z
discover-jobs-cta
Discover now
>