At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Microbiology team to process patient samples and support diagnostic services.
- Company: University Hospitals Dorset, a leading NHS trust with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusivity and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in patient care while enjoying a stunning coastal location.
- Qualifications: Good general education and experience in a laboratory or hospital environment.
The predicted salary is between 22430 - 27414 £ per year.
An opportunity has arisen for a Medical Laboratory Assistant to join the Microbiology department at University Hospitals Dorset. The Microbiology laboratory is well-equipped, fully computerised, holds UKAS accreditation and is approved for training. We currently offer diagnostic microbiology to The Royal Bournemouth Hospital, Poole Hospital and general practices. The laboratory routinely handles in excess of 250,000 specimens per year. The successful candidate will be part of the microbiology team providing a diagnostic medical microbiology service contributing to the clinical care of patients and control of infectious diseases within the hospital and community, by providing support to the Biomedical Scientists and other staff. As such this post will be a varied and interesting role that will require an adaptable and flexible working ethic. All training will be provided to the candidate who will then backfill for staff leave between the sections. This is an exciting time to join the pathology team in Dorset as we are in the process of reconfiguring the services across the county. Working hours are 37.5 hours per week, which includes participation in a weekend rota. Base Location: Royal Bournemouth Hospital. Interview Date: 1st October 2026.
Main duties of the job:
- Receiving, checking, labelling, booking in and processing patient samples in line with departmental procedures.
- Following training, carry out a range of routine laboratory procedures accurately and efficiently.
- Receive and record incoming goods, monitor equipment and report any non-conformances.
- Carry out daily housekeeping duties, including cleaning and decontaminating equipment and keeping laboratory work areas clean, tidy and safe.
Person specification:
- Qualifications: Good general education, numerate & literate, A-levels or other suitable qualifications, Vocational NVQ2.
- Personal attributes: Ability to concentrate for long periods at technically demanding procedures, Ability to use initiative.
- Technical Skills: Ability to deal with telephone calls politely and professionally, Ability to follow detailed and complex protocol, Ability to work effectively as part of the laboratory team, High degree of accuracy in all work, Ability to work under pressure in a busy environment.
- Experience: Experience of work in a laboratory or hospital environment.
Please note: Staff recruited are expected to be available to work flexibly across all our Trust locations to meet service demands. COVID-19 vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself and our patients from the virus when working in our healthcare settings. While this vaccination is not a condition of employment, we do encourage our staff to get vaccinated.
Medical Laboratory Assistant - Microbiology in Bournemouth employer: Transformation Unit
The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional development. With opportunities for growth within the NHS framework, staff can engage in meaningful work that directly impacts patient care in a collaborative environment across two dynamic hospital sites. Join us to be part of a transformative healthcare journey that values your expertise and contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Medical Laboratory Assistant - Microbiology in Bournemouth
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like Transformation Unit.
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Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
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Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at Transformation Unit.
✨Apply Through Our Website for Better Visibility
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We think you need these skills to ace Medical Laboratory Assistant - Microbiology in Bournemouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at Transformation Unit.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at Transformation Unit.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to Transformation Unit. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at Transformation Unit. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Transformation Unit
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research Transformation Unit’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
