Healthcare Science Support Worker

Job summary The Food, Water and Environmental (FW&E) Microbiology Laboratories are specialist microbiology laboratories within the UKHSA.
Based in 3 sites across the country, the laboratories are geographically well placed to work with local authorities to protect the public from health threats posed by contaminated food, water and the environment.
The York FW&E Laboratory provides a microbiology testing and advisory service to Local Authorities, Port Health Authorities, hospitals and commercial clients across the North of England.
The laboratory is accredited to ISO 17025 and is recognised as an Official Laboratory for the microbiological examination of food and foodstuffs.The post holder will perform a range of routine tasks, including sample reception and preparation and to work as part of a team to perform routine examination of samples and update laboratory IT systems.
The post holder will be expected to work hrs flexibly between 7:30am - 7:00pm Monday to Friday and Saturday and Sunday as required.
Main duties of the job Your main duties will be: Contribute to the provision of an analytical microbiology service for food, water and environmental samplesUnder supervision, assist in the receipt of samples into the laboratory and completing pre-analysis processing of specimensWorking as part of a team to undertake routine preparation and examination of a wide range of samples under supervisionTo be competent in the use of equipment including autoclaves and ovens, collection and disposal of discard material and the wash-up and sterilisation of glasswareRespond to requests and communicate accurately, information and results to other laboratory staff, as requiredRefer queries to other, more senior staff, as appropriateEnsure efficient running and contribute to routine maintenance of all equipment, which will include high cost, complex equipment requiring calibration and regular maintenance About us We pride ourselves as being an employer of choice, where Everyone Matters promoting equality of opportunity to actively encourage applications from everyone, including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce.
UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders.
To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities.
We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.
Please visit our careers site for more information Job description Job responsibilities Service Delivery Contribute to the provision of an analytical microbiology service for food, water and environmental samples Under supervision, assist in the receipt of samples into the laboratory and complete pre-analysis processing of specimens Work as part of a team to undertake routine preparation and examination of a wide range of samples under supervision Become competent in the use of laboratory equipment including balances and pipettes Assist with waste disposal following local procedures Respond to requests and accurately communicate information and results to other laboratory staff, as required Quality Systems Management Participate in activities necessary for the maintenance and development of the Quality System in accordance with UKAS requirements Support the laboratorys accreditation to ISO 17025 and ensure compliance with UKAS and other accreditation and certification standards Asset Management Ensure efficient running and contribute to routine maintenance of all equipment, which will include high cost, complex equipment requiring calibration and regular maintenance Take responsibility for stock control in the FW&E laboratory, ensuring sufficient stock levels are maintained for efficient service provision Strategy, Policy and Service Development Support the implementation of new methods and technologies into the laboratory, in order to maximise quality and efficiency of testing IT Infrastructure Become competent in the use of the laboratorys IT systems and assist with the basic inputting of data into the system Security / Health & Safety Ensure confidentiality and conformity to the requirements of the Data Protection Act, Caldicott principles and the Laboratory Information Systems and Technology Security policy Ensure attendance of self and managed staff on safety training courses as required in the UKHSA Health and Safety Training Policy and other safety policies as appropriate.
Ensure that a Laboratory/Office Safety Code is implemented Ensure that risk assessments are implemented and maintained Notify accidents, near misses, dangerous situations and shortcomings in health and safety via the appropriate management structure For a full list of the main duties and responsibilities of the role, please refer to the attached Job Description.
The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive.
The Job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary.
Essential Criteria: Good standard of general education GCSEs (grade C or above) in English, maths and science or educated to NVQ 2 level in a relevant subject, or equivalent level of qualification, or significant equivalent previous proven experience Previous experience of working in an administrative environment using computerised data systems Working knowledge of Microsoft Office including Word and Excel Good manual dexterity skills and confidence handling pathogens Clear communicator with good writing, data entry and telephone skills ensuring accuracy Ability to work effectively as part of a team Demonstrate a high level of motivation and commitment to high standards An understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships.
Desirable Educated to A Level/NVQ level 3 standard or equivalent Knowledge and understanding of laboratory safety requirements and procedures Previous experience of working in a laboratory Experience of managing and communicating sensitive/confidential information For a full list of essential criteria, please refer to the attached Job Description.
Selection process details This vacancy is using Success Profiles and will assess your Behaviours and Strengths.
You will be required to complete an application form.
You will be assessed on the above listed 8 essential criteria, and this will be in the form of a: Application form(Employer/ Activity history section on the application 750 word Statement of Suitability.
This should outline how you consider your skills, experience, and knowledge, provide evidence of your suitability for the role, with reference to the essential criteria.
The Application form and Statement of Suitability will be marked together.
Please do not exceed 750 words.
We will not consider any words over and above this number.
If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to an interview.
Unfortunately, late applications will not be considered.
Stage 2: Interview (success profiles) You will be invited to a (single) face to face interview.
Behaviour's and strengths will be tested at interview.
The Behaviour's tested during the interview stage will be: Working Together Developing Self and Others Managing a Quality Service Delivering at Pace Interviews will be held week commencing TBC.
Please note, these dates are subject to change.
Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available.
You may want to save a copy for your records.
Location This role is being offered as office working based at: York Biotech CampusSand Hutton,YorkYO41 1LZ Eligibility Criteria Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including by definition internal applicants).
Security Clearance Level Requirement Successful candidates must pass a disclosure and barring security check.
Successful candidates will require Basic Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) as a minimum with willingness and capability to work towards Security Check (SC).
Person Specification Application form and Statement of Suitability Essential Application form and Statement of Suitability Behaviours Essential Working Together Developing Self and Others Managing a Quality Service Delivering at Pace