Job summary We are currently recruiting for Band 4 Associate Practitioner to join our fast paced and dynamic Microbiology team. This role is part of a team which provides an efficient and effective Microbiology service to two general hospitals (Southend University/Basildon and Thurrock University Hospital Trusts) and local GP community. We're the first lab in the UK to be able to offer some Specialist BMS staff the opportunity to read bacterial cultures from home, utilising BD Kiestra Synapsys technology. Main duties of the job As an Associate Practitioner you will be expected to perform a number of Healthcare scientific activities including undertaking standard biomedical investigations (tests) and non-routine tests on a range of body fluids, swabs and tissues under the supervision of a HCPC registered practitioner. You will be required to rotate through designated areas of Microbiology within the Hub as required dependant on experience and training. Other duties will involve performing QC and maintenance on complex analysers, carrying out basic trouble-shooting for some analysers, supporting SBMS and BMS in performance of routine and complex tests and to provide training and supervision of MLA staff. You will not authorise results as this is a non-HCPC registered post. Applicants must currently have permission to work in the UK. 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 work closely with clinicians, hospitals, occupational health providers and clinical researchers to provide a complete pathology offering. We operate in increasingly diverse environments which is reflected in our workforce, clients, customers, suppliers, communities and partners. We believe an inclusive workplace culture is the best way to source, attract and retain diverse and talented people, and create a sustainable, high-performing workforce. We believe our staff is vital to the principle of making a positive difference to healthcare, therefore, we promote a culture of continuous personal development where scientists and staff have the support and resources to acquire new skills and build their careers through learning and development opportunities, coaching and clear career pathways. Please note that we reserve the right to close any adverts once we have received a sufficient number of applications. If you decide to apply for this post but do not hear back from us within two weeks of your application, please assume that you have not been short-listed on this occasion. SYNLAB UK & Ireland is a committed equal opportunities employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of any status or condition protected by applicable UK employment law. Date posted 18 March 2025 Pay scheme Other Salary £26,530 to £29,114 a year Contract Permanent Working pattern Full-time Reference number 129 Job locations Pathology First Hub Laboratory Bentalls, Basildon Essex GB-ESS SS14 3BY 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. 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 Skills Essential See Job Description 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 Qualifications Essential Relevant NVQ level 3 plus additional theoretical and applied training to Level 4 diploma equivalent level Participation in CPD activities Person Specification Skills Essential See Job Description 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 Qualifications Essential Relevant NVQ level 3 plus additional theoretical and applied training to Level 4 diploma equivalent level Participation in CPD activities Disclosure and Barring Service Check This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions. Employer details Employer name iPP Analytics Limited Address Pathology First Hub Laboratory Bentalls, Basildon Essex GB-ESS SS14 3BY Employer's website https://synlab.co.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)