At a Glance
- Tasks: Collect and manage clinical and domestic waste while operating various machinery.
- Company: Join the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, a forward-thinking NHS Foundation Trust.
- Benefits: Flexible shifts, supportive team environment, and opportunities for training and development.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital service that contributes to patient care and hospital efficiency.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; just a willingness to learn and work hard.
- Other info: Exciting time to join as we build a new state-of-the-art hospital.
Role Overview
We are currently looking for 1 substantive Waste Porter within a 5‑week rolling shift pattern, working 6:00 – 14:00 shifts. The service operates 7 days per week so weekend and Bank Holiday working is required. This is a physically demanding role. As a valued member of the Waste and Linen team you will collect bagged clinical and domestic waste, bagged soiled linen and recyclable waste including cardboard and metal items by hand and using a variety of methods including electric tugs, Trust vehicles and hand trolleys. The role involves making sure all waste and linen is collected in a timely manner, which also may involve patient contact at times. You will work in a team of between 2‑20 people daily.
Responsibilities
- Collection of bagged clinical and domestic waste
- Collection of bagged contaminated/ soiled linen
- Collection of items for recycling; these currently include cardboard/paper, plastics, batteries, ink/toner cartridges, furniture and metals
- To operate various machinery, including Trust vehicles (both on and off site), electric tugs/movers, bin washing machine, waste compactor, cardboard baler and bin tippers
- To assist in the loading/unloading of clinical waste bins to external contractors vehicles
- Accept delivery of and store sharps containers in accordance with departmental guidelines
- Complete and maintain the administration paperwork required to record movements and transfers of clinical and other waste streams
- To drive to other sites to collect items as required
- To undergo all mandatory and departmental training as directed by the Waste and Linen Services Manager
- Will on occasions be asked to work alongside the main day Portering team when necessary
About The QEH
We’re working on a once in a generation opportunity to build a new state‑of‑the‑art hospital to open and we are also carrying out one of the biggest pieces of digital transformation work we’ve ever undertaken. Our new electronic patient record (EPR) will replace paper‑based patient records from 2026 and will lead to better, safer, joined‑up care at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital and beyond.
Benefits
We are an ambitious organisation that upholds our values of kindness, wellness and fairness. We strive for continuous quality improvement, recently demonstrated in our 2024 CQC maternity inspection rating our services as ‘Good’, and we are proud to be a place to learn and grow through recognised learning and apprenticeships.
We recognise and reward our 4,000 staff and volunteers, priding ourselves on a community atmosphere and positive team spirit. We have approx. 530 beds across 33 wards and have newly built education and training facilities, a range of modern award‑winning centres alongside a talented team of people ready to give you a warm welcome. We love working here and think you will too.
Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further information about this role.
Apply
This advert closes on Wednesday 28 Jan 2026.
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Waste Porter | The Queen Elizabeth Hospital King\'s Lynn NHS Foundation Trust employer: Queen Elizabeth Hospital King's Lynn
Contact Detail:
Queen Elizabeth Hospital King's Lynn Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Waste Porter | The Queen Elizabeth Hospital King\'s Lynn NHS Foundation Trust
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital. A friendly chat can give us insider info on the role and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by knowing the ins and outs of waste management. Brush up on the responsibilities listed in the job description, so we can show off our knowledge and enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 3
Show up with a positive attitude! The Queen Elizabeth Hospital values kindness and teamwork, so let’s make sure we convey that we’re all about working well with others.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows that we’re serious about joining TeamQEH.
We think you need these skills to ace Waste Porter | The Queen Elizabeth Hospital King\'s Lynn NHS Foundation Trust
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what we're looking for in a Waste Porter. Highlight key responsibilities and skills that match your experience.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your skills and experiences relate specifically to the Waste Porter role. Use examples from your past work that show you can handle the tasks mentioned in the job description.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and long-winded sentences. Make sure your points are easy to read and get straight to the point!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our Trust there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Queen Elizabeth Hospital King's Lynn
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Waste Porter. Familiarise yourself with the types of waste you'll be handling and the machinery you'll be operating. This will show your potential employer that you're serious about the role and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since this role involves working alongside the main day Portering team, it's essential to highlight your ability to work well in a team. Share examples from your past experiences where you've collaborated effectively with others, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Show Your Commitment to Safety
Given the nature of the job, safety is paramount. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise safety in your work. You might want to mention any relevant training or certifications you have, as well as your understanding of handling clinical waste and adhering to guidelines.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, the training process, or how the Trust supports continuous improvement. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.