Band 2 Medical Laboratory Assistant

Blood Sciences Specimen Reception MLAs assist the Hematology, Immunology, Blood Transfusion and Biochemistry laboratories in the provision of a high quality and efficient diagnostic service to patients and medical staff.

In accordance with agreed protocols and standard operational procedures, the post-holder will participate in the analysis of biological specimens by receiving, preparing and processing samples. This includes clerical input of patient and test details into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and performing required supportive duties, including:

Undertaking administrative duties involved in the receipt and processing of specimens and request forms.

Undertaking pre and post analytical sample processing.

Working as an effective team in an efficient, positive and competent manner.

Helping provide a safe, clean and well-maintained environment

• Follow procedures, protocols and directives as required providing a high-quality laboratory service.
• To receive, check and distribute samples received by Pathology Reception.
• To partake in the reception of samples for Blood Sciences and the preparation for analysis.
• Complete patient identity checks and to deal with any discrepancies in labelling.
• Barcode specimens and forms and enter requests into the Laboratory Information Management System (WinPath).
• Escalate or complete any additional pre-analytical processing requirements, such as centrifugation, separating or freezing.
• To transport specimens to analytical areas as required.
• Cover the front desk at Pathology Reception and deal with specimen deliveries and enquiries from staff, visitors and patients.
• To complete training and competency assessment as required.

Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust is now one of the largest in the country, with a workforce of approximately 15,000 who serve a population of 1.2 million people.

We work together, and in conjunction with MSE Health and Care Partnership, to deliver excellent local and specialist services, to improve the health and wellbeing of our patients in a compassionate way, and provide a respectful, but vibrant place for staff to develop, innovate and build careers.

From facilities through to consultant specialists we want to be the best, to achieve this we need to recruit not just those who are the finest in their field but also those who have the potential to be. Yes, experience is important but so is outlook – if you are dynamic, forward-thinking and enthusiastic we want you to join us.

We not only offer you a good working environment with flexible working opportunities, but also the opportunity to develop your career with access to appropriate training for your job and the support to succeed and progress

For full details about this varied and rewarding role, please see attached job description, but some of the responsibilities include

• To participate in any additional pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical duties as required.
• To answer telephone enquiries and to liaise with a wide spectrum of healthcare and medical professionals.
• Other basic clerical and administrative duties.
• To promote a safe and harmonious working environment.
• To keep Specimen Reception clean and tidy at all times.
• To play an active role in the training and supervision of new members of the Specimen Reception Team.
• To maintain high standards of punctuality and professionalism.
• To work flexible hours to meet the needs of the service.