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The aim is for our workforce to be truly representative and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best. To this end, NHS Scotland welcomes applications from all sections of society.

CAITHNESS GENERAL HOSPITAL, WICK - LABORATORY
Senior Biomedical Scientist
0.8 wte Plus On Call Payments

We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Senior Biomedical Scientist to join our friendly and dynamic laboratory team at Caithness General Hospital. This exciting opportunity offers a key leadership role within the NHS Highland Blood Sciences Network, supporting high-quality diagnostic services across Haematology, Biochemistry, and Blood Transfusion.

The post holder will lead and coordinate external quality assessment (EQA) activities, support staff training and competency assessment, and ensure compliance with laboratory quality standards, accreditation requirements, and regulatory frameworks including UKAS ISO 15189 and MHRA standards.

Our multidisciplinary laboratory provides a diverse and rewarding workload, including:

• Haematology using Sysmex XN & CN-Series analysers, including blood film morphology.
• Blood Transfusion services including manual group and screen testing, compatibility testing (crossmatching), Direct Antiglobulin Testing (DAT), antibody investigations, and blood component management.
• Clinical Biochemistry using the Siemens Atellica platform for routine and urgent diagnostic testing.
• Point of Care Testing support across hospital setting.

This role offers a unique opportunity to work in a UKAS accredited (ISO 15189:2022) rural general hospital laboratory, where Biomedical Scientists develop and maintain a broad skill set while working closely with clinical teams to provide essential services to a remote population.

Applicants must:

• Be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Biomedical Scientist.
• Hold the IBMS Specialist Diploma, BBTS Specialist Certificate, or equivalent demonstrable experience.
• Have previous NHS laboratory experience.
• Demonstrate experience in quality management, training, or laboratory governance activities.
• Candidates undertaking or holding an MSc qualification are encouraged to apply; however, this does not replace the Specialist Diploma/Certificate requirement.

The post is 28 hours 48 minutes per week, normally worked Monday to Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm, with participation in the departmental on-call, weekend, and occasional public holiday rota.

Why Caithness?
Caithness offers an exceptional quality of life, combining rewarding professional practice with access to some of Scotland's most dramatic coastlines, outdoor activities, and natural beauty. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Biomedical Scientist seeking a varied role, greater professional autonomy, and the chance to make a real difference within a close-knit laboratory team and local community.

Join us and help shape the future of Blood Sciences in the North Highlands. Note the Job Description for this Position is currently under review.

Informal enquiries would be welcomed by Laura Taylor, Rural General Hospital Senior Biomedical Scientist, Tel: 01955-880267, email laura.Taylor8@nhs.scot or Johan Campbell, Rural General Hospital Laboratory Manager, Tel: 01955-880316, email johan.campbell@nhs.scot

Additional information for candidates
Flexible Working
Flexible working options may be available, depending on the role and service needs. If this is important to you, please discuss it at interview.

How to apply
Apply online through Jobtrain
Please note that this vacancy may close before the advertised closing date if a high number of applications are received. Early application is therefore advised.
Please ensure the address on your application form reflects your current place of residence for your present workplace and can be verified through your identification documents.
Do not upload a CV – CVs are not used for shortlisting
Applications close at midnight on the stated closing date
Once submitted, applications cannot be changed

Keeping in Touch
We will contact you by email
Please check your email (including junk folders) and your Jobtrain account regularly

Support and Accessibility
Help with applying: https://www.careers.nhs.scot/how-to-apply/application-process/
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Jobtrain accessibility statement: https://www.eess.nhs.scot/jobtrain-accessibility-statement/
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What is it like to work for NHS Highland?
Visit https://www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk/careers/ to find out more about living and working in our area
Applications are welcome from Gaelic speakers
Tha fàilte air tagraidhean bho luchd-labhairt na Gàidhlig

Care and compassion
Dignity and respect
Openness, honesty and responsibility
Quality and teamwork