Job Requirements/Description
We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Associate Practitioner to join our Blood Sciences Department at Yeovil District Hospital, working as part of Southwest Pathology Services (SPS).
This is an exciting opportunity to work within a multidisciplinary laboratory alongside experienced Biomedical Scientists and laboratory professionals. Working within our close-knit team, you will be encouraged to take responsibility for your work, contribute to service improvements, and support the day-to-day operation of the laboratory. You will play an important role in supporting the delivery of high-quality diagnostic services while developing your own technical expertise and laboratory skills.
Our laboratory holds ISO15189 UKAS accreditation and is an HCPC-approved training laboratory, providing excellent opportunities for professional development. This role offers valuable exposure to a wide range of Blood Sciences disciplines and the chance to build strong connections with experienced laboratory professionals who will support your ongoing career progression.
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.
Role is primarily located at Yeovil District Hospital.
Rotate across Specimen Reception, Biochemistry, Haematology and Transfusion, maintaining high professional standards throughout.
Perform Biomedical investigations, within operating procedures and protocols, to provide within agreed quality standards of service delivery and turnaround times under the supervision of senior grade BMS grade staff.
Operate, maintain, and perform routine troubleshooting of automated analysers and associated laboratory equipment, ensuring all maintenance and quality control procedures are completed and documented.
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.
Provide supervision, training to junior staff which includes monitoring their performance against laboratory standards and their training plans.
Contribute to service improvement, staff development, and the smooth operation of a busy multidisciplinary laboratory through effective multitasking and teamwork.
Take responsibility for designated areas of laboratory work, ensuring tasks are completed safely, accurately, and efficiently.
Prioritise and manage competing demands effectively, maintaining accuracy and attention to detail within a busy laboratory setting
Formed in 2012, Southwest Pathology Services (SPS) is a joint venture between SYNLAB UK & Ireland and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust. The partnership serves a population of around 500,000 and delivers services to the Trust and more than 100 GP practices, delivering on over 9 million tests annually.
Our team at SPS have been fundamental to the principle of making a positive difference to healthcare in Somerset for over a decade. We hold ISO15189 UKAS accreditation and are an HCPC approved training Laboratory for both IBMS Registration and Specialist Portfolios.
We maintain a comprehensive training budget designed to support the career development of all our employees. This investment ensures that employees have access to the necessary resources and opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge and advance their professional growth.
Purpose of the Job
To be able to rotate through all areas of the Laboratories as required (Dependent on qualifications, experience and training), to perform all designated duties in accordance with local working practices, to maintain high Professional standards and conform to Health and Safety regulations.
To perform Biomedical investigations under the supervision of BMS grade staff, within operating procedures and protocols.
To provide our service users high quality of service delivery within agreed turnaround times, whilst Adapt to changing service demands.
To continue with personal development through academic or practical experience.
To demonstrate excellent organisational skills, and the ability to confidently multitask in a fast-paced laboratory environment.
Prioritise and manage competing workloads to support the efficient delivery of diagnostic services.
What you will do
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.
Propose changes to standard operating procedures, as required, 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, on the telephone or via 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 for 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 tutor to junior staff.
Use consumables and equipment within your allocated section responsibly 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.
Demonstrate ongoing competency against training plans and participate positively in CPD (continuous professional development) activities.