At a Glance
- Tasks: Collect blood samples and ensure athletes' aftercare in a dynamic sports environment.
- Company: Join UK Anti-Doping, dedicated to promoting clean sport and integrity.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive pay per mission, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital mission to keep sports fair and clean while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Must be a trained phlebotomist with strong teamwork and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 £ per hour.
Salary Per Mission
Location: UK Wide
Type of contract: Casual Worker Agreement
Closing Date: 23:59pm on 31 March 2026
UK Anti‑Doping (UKAD) is on a mission to protect clean sport and currently has an exciting opportunity available for you to join us.
About Us
Our purpose: To ensure doping‑free sport, promoting and protecting clean sport through education, testing and enforcement.
Our Values:
- Integrity – We do what is right for clean sport, we are equitable and ethical, ensuring everyone is treated fairly and with respect.
- Collaboration – We work together and with others, sharing knowledge and building relationships to better tackle doping.
- Excellence – We strive to achieve high standards in the protection of clean sport, evolving with the times and finding solutions.
- Passion – We are dedicated to keeping sport clean, are proud of what we do and know it matters.
Job Purpose
BCOs are required to act as an independent worker on behalf of UK Anti‑Doping (UKAD), forming part of the wider Doping Control Personnel (DCP) scheme. DCP are independent workers who attend tests as determined by UKAD. There are no guarantees or minimum levels of work as Testing occurs at any time, anywhere and at any place across the year. Testing occurs at various venues/sites, such as competition venues, training venues and athlete’s residences at different times of the day. Flexibility is required, but the nature of work can suit individuals already in full‑time/part‑time employment. DCP are paid on a ‘per mission’ basis. BCOs are required to collect blood samples in accordance with WADA’s International Standard for Testing and Investigations (ISTI). Conducting blood sample collection procedures will involve taking blood samples from Athletes and ensuring the correct aftercare procedures are conducted. Samples should be kept in a suitable condition until transferred to an authorised representative of UKAD.
BCOs will also be requested to fulfil the duties of a Chaperone including notification of Athletes selected for an anti‑doping test, chaperoning of selected Athletes to the Doping Control Station (DCS), witnessing urine sample provision and the completion of administration duties in accordance with the UKAD Doping Control Handbook.
Key result areas include – Blood sample collection duties
- Carrying out blood sample collection duties as part of UKAD’s Anti‑Doping Programme and in accordance with the guidelines set down by WADA and UKAD.
- Determining whether sufficient blood has been collected in each vacutainer.
- Maintaining the security of the area designated for blood sample collection.
- Ordering, holding and taking blood sample collection equipment to blood missions.
- Accurately and adequately completing the procedures and administration duties associated with the role of BCO, including report writing.
- Participating in team briefs and debriefs with other DCP.
- Maintaining confidentiality.
- Writing comprehensive and legible reports where applicable.
- Attending any disciplinary hearing convened in respect of an Athlete (as a result of the BCO’s provision of service at a sample collection session).
- Interacting in a professional manner with Athletes, Athlete Support Personnel, IF or NGB representatives and other DCP.
- Contributing to the development of procedures for BCOs.
- Undertaking such professional BCO training and assessment as UKAD may require to ensure operating standards are continually met.
Key result areas include – Chaperone duties
- Completing notification and chaperoning duties as part of UKAD’s Anti‑Doping Programme as set out in the Doping Control Handbook.
- Directly observing and witnessing urine sample provision (when needed).
- Managing the Entry and Exit Log located in the DCS.
- Assisting with maintaining the security of samples.
- Athlete engagement.
- Assisting with the security of the DCS.
- Accurately and adequately completing the procedures and administration duties associated with the role of a Chaperone, including writing comprehensive and legible reports when required.
- Participating in team briefs and debriefs with other DCP.
- Maintaining confidentiality.
- Interacting in a professional manner with Athletes, Athlete Support Personnel, International Federation (IF) or National Governing Body (NGB) representatives and other DCP.
- Contributing to the development of procedures for Chaperones.
- Undertaking such professional Chaperone training and assessment as UKAD may require to ensure minimum operating standards are continually met.
Additional responsibilities
- Adhere to all relevant Child Protection matters.
- Abide by the DCP Handbook guidelines should any modifications to standard procedure be required.
- Attend any disciplinary hearing convened in respect of an Athlete (as a result of the DCP’s provision of service at any sample collection sessions).
Person specification – Qualifications/experience/knowledge/skills
- Professionally trained & qualified, active and experienced phlebotomist.
- Comprehensive and up‑to‑date First Aid knowledge.
- Sensitivity, understanding and calmness under pressure.
- Ability to carry out detailed administrative tasks with a high degree of accuracy.
- Proven ability to work with confidential information.
- Able to work well in a team environment.
- Sound judgement and decision‑making capability.
- Ability to use own initiative within a procedural framework.
- Conflict management skills in a stressful environment.
- Organisational skills for people and activities.
How to Apply
Our values are at the heart of what we do, so if they align with you and you’re up for the fight against doping in sport, please complete the online application. Deadline for Applications is 11:59pm on 31 March 2026. If shortlisted, you will be invited to a selection day, currently planned to take place on the weekends of 18‑19 and 25‑26 April 2026 at SportPark, Loughborough.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We are a disability confident employer and actively welcome applications from people with disabilities and long‑term health conditions. If you meet the definition of ‘being a disabled person’ according to the Equality Act 2010, and meet the minimum criteria for the role, you may be eligible to apply for an interview via the Disability Confident Scheme and will have the opportunity to let us know as part of your application.
As an organisation working across the sports sector, we value a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences. This diversity helps us understand the communities we support, strengthen our work, and create an inclusive environment for everyone.
We warmly encourage applications from women, individuals with diverse abilities, and people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds. Recruitment is always based on merit, skills and experience.
We welcome the use of artificial intelligence as a supportive tool when preparing your application. To help us understand your strengths, please make sure all examples and statements you provide are honest, accurate, and based on your own experiences. If we identify content that has been copied or created by others and presented as your own, your application may be withdrawn. For internal applicants, this may also lead to the usual organisational procedures.
Blood Collection Officer (BCO) in Loughborough employer: UK Anti-Doping
Contact Detail:
UK Anti-Doping Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Blood Collection Officer (BCO) in Loughborough
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research UKAD and their mission to protect clean sport. Understanding their values and goals will help you connect during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former BCOs and DCP members on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for you. Building these connections can give you insider knowledge and potentially a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for potential interview questions related to blood collection and chaperoning duties. Role-play with a friend or family member to boost your confidence and ensure you can articulate your skills clearly.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining UKAD and ready to take on the challenge of keeping sport clean.
We think you need these skills to ace Blood Collection Officer (BCO) in Loughborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic: When you're filling out your application, let your true self shine through! We want to see your passion for clean sport and how your values align with ours. Don't be afraid to share your unique experiences that make you a great fit for the role.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Focus on your phlebotomy training and any previous roles that showcase your ability to work under pressure and maintain confidentiality. This will help us see why you're the perfect match!
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since collaboration is key in our work, emphasise your ability to work well in a team. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in past roles, especially in high-pressure situations. We love seeing candidates who can contribute positively to our team dynamic!
Proofread Like a Pro: Before hitting that submit button, give your application a thorough read-through. Typos and errors can distract from your message, so take the time to ensure everything is clear and professional. A polished application shows us you care about the details!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Anti-Doping
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your phlebotomy skills and the latest guidelines from WADA and UKAD. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role and understand the importance of clean sport.
✨Show Your Flexibility
Since this role requires a lot of flexibility, be prepared to discuss your availability and how you can adapt to different testing environments. Share examples of how you've managed unpredictable schedules in the past.
✨Demonstrate Professionalism
You’ll be interacting with athletes and other professionals, so it’s crucial to convey a sense of professionalism. Practice how you would introduce yourself and handle sensitive situations, as this will reflect your ability to maintain confidentiality and respect.
✨Prepare for Team Dynamics
Collaboration is key in this role, so think about how you work within a team. Be ready to share experiences where you’ve successfully collaborated with others, especially in high-pressure situations, to highlight your teamwork skills.