Job summary

We are currentlyrecruiting for Band 4 Associate Practitioner to join our fast paced and dynamicMicrobiology team. This role is part of a team which provides an efficient andeffective Microbiology service to two general hospitals (Southend University/Basildonand Thurrock University Hospital Trusts) and local GP community. We're thefirst lab in the UK to be able to offer some Specialist BMS staff theopportunity to read bacterial cultures from home, utilising BD Kiestra Synapsystechnology.

Main duties of the job

As an Associate Practitioner you will be expected to perform anumber of Healthcare scientific activities including undertaking standardbiomedical investigations (tests) and non-routine tests on a range of bodyfluids, swabs and tissues under the supervision of a HCPC registered practitioner.

You will be required to rotate through designatedareas of Microbiology within the Hub as required dependant on experience andtraining. Other duties will involve performing QC and maintenance on complexanalysers, carrying out basic trouble-shooting for some analysers, supportingSBMS and BMS in performance of routine and complex tests and to providetraining and supervision of MLA staff. You will not authorise results as thisis a non-HCPC registered post.

At SYNLAB, we believe in nurturing a culture of well-being and ensuring our employees are supported both professionally and personally. That's why we're thrilled to offer an exhilarating rewards package, including our incredible Wellbeing Allowance worth up to £1500 per annum for our esteemed team members working in Band 2 - 6 roles. Additionally, for band 5 & 6 roles, where night shift is part of the role requirements, you will receive enhanced night shift payment.

About us

SYNLAB UK & Ireland workclosely with clinicians, hospitals, occupational health providers and clinicalresearchers to provide a complete pathology offering.

We operate in increasinglydiverse environments which is reflected in our workforce, clients, customers,suppliers, communities and partners. We believe an inclusive workplace cultureis the best way to source, attract and retain diverse and talented people, andcreate a sustainable, high-performing workforce.

We believe our staff is vital tothe principle of making a positive difference to healthcare, therefore, wepromote a culture of continuous personal development where scientists and staffhave the support and resources to acquire new skills and build their careersthrough learning and development opportunities, coaching and clear careerpathways.

Please note that we reserve theright to close any adverts once we have received a sufficient number ofapplications. If you decide to apply for this post but do not hear back from uswithin two weeks of your application, please assume that you have not beenshort-listed on this occasion.

SYNLAB UK & Ireland is a committedequal opportunities employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basisof any status or condition protected by applicable UK employment law.

Job description

Job responsibilities

Be able to rotate through all areas of the laboratory required (dependent on qualifications, experience and training) performing all designated duties in accordance with local working practices whilst maintaining high personal standards and conforming to Health and Safety regulations.

Perform routine and specialist biomedical investigations, and participate daily in the scientific and technical activities of the laboratory section, which may include specimen reception functions, under the supervision of Biomedical Scientists.

Participate in and assist with clinical trials, the development of new tests and research & validation of equipment ensuring at all times compliance with all policies as required by regulatory directives, accreditation bodies and local management policies and practices. Propose changes to standard operating procedures as required in order to develop and streamline the service or to reflect other changes.

Utilise the laboratory LIMS, Q-Pulse quality monitoring system and other application software according to authorised protocols including assisting in computer data entry in all areas of the laboratory.

Communicate efficiently, courteously and with clarity at all times, whether face to face, telephone or electronic methods referring enquiries to senior staff where appropriate. Matters being communicated may include complex information and/or results.

Attend and participate positively in laboratory and other meetings as directed by Laboratory managers.

As directed by senior laboratory staff, plan and prioritise work allocations, training plans, audits of both yourself and junior staff, responding appropriately to the needs of routine and urgent activities.

Provide supervision, training and professional leadership to junior staff which includes monitoring their performance against laboratory standards and their training plans.

Encourage active participation in continuous professional development and support the introduction of new technologies and / or systems by being a change advocate, and active mentor and a tutor to junior staff.

Use consumables and equipment within your allocated section responsibility and be responsible for stock control audits and recording through approved channels as required.

Report all incidents and adverse events to senior staff and enter the information in the CAPA module of Q-pulse in a timely manner as directed by senior staff.

Report all incidents and adverse events to senior staff.

Demonstrate on going competency against training plans and participate positively in CPD (continuous professional development) activities.

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

Relevant NVQ level 3 plus additional theoretical and applied training to Level 4 diploma equivalent level Participation in CPD activities

Experience

Essential

Proven basic working knowledge of a diagnostic laboratory, preferably Microbiology Previous experience in an AP or MLA role desirable Knowledge of computer applications and LIMS including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Statistical Packages