Job summary
A vacancy has arisen for a Healthcare Science Assistant (Band 2) to join our team in the Chester & Wirral NHS Microbiology Service based in Bromborough, Wirral.

Core hours of work will be 09:00 to 17:30, Monday to Friday.

Shift contribution includes late shifts 12:00 to 20:00, plus a 12 hour night shift with specific hours to be confirmed . Weekend working is typically 1 in 4 and also includes shifted hours.

A minimum of an NVQ2 or GCSE Grade C in Mathematics, English and at least one Science subject are necessary. Nationally recognised equivalents are acceptable. Applicants should be methodical and organised, with good communication skills and the ability to work effectively.

Previous laboratory experience and knowledge of microbiology would be advantageous but not essential as training will be provided.

At Wirral University Hospital, we are committed to safeguarding both staff and patients by embedding rigorous infection-control standards, promoting a strong culture of safety, and fostering a supportive and transparent working environment.

Due to the nature of this role within an infectious diseases department, relevant vaccinations may be required to ensure the safety of both staff and patients.

Main duties of the job
You will be assisting Biomedical Scientists and Healthcare Science Associates in receiving, preparing and examining clinical specimens. Your duties will include the preparation of reagents, operation of laboratory equipment, stock and record maintenance.

Your post will also include general clerical duties such as data entry, telephone enquiries and post.

About us
All new colleagues can expect to receive a warm and friendly Wirral welcome from the very first time they make contact with us. We are described as "competent and caring staff" by our patients.

Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is situated on The Wirral peninsula which has a stunning coastline and beautiful countryside surroundings, with great activities for its residents.

We are one of the largest and busiest acute Trusts in the North West of England, comprising of the Wirral's only Emergency Department. We provide a high quality range of acute care services and employ over 6,000 staff, who serve a population of approximately 400,000 people across Wirral, Ellesmere Port, Neston, North Wales and the wider North West footprint.

We have approximately 855 beds trust-wide and our financial turnover is in excess of £337m.

The Wirral is easily accessible with excellent transport links including motorway, train, bus or ferry and within easy reach to the major cities of Liverpool, Chester and Manchester as well as neighbouring North Wales.

Job responsibilities
Please see Job overview & attached Job description for further information about the Healthcare Science Assistant position available with WUTH.

Qualifications, Specific Experience & Training and Sciences.
Essential

• NVQ 2 or equivalent

Desirable

• NVQ2 Healthcare Science or Level 3 or higher

Personal Attributes
Essential

• Demonstrates ability to communicate and relate effectively, clearly and professionally at all levels
• Relay messages accurately and appropriately
• Good telephone skills
• Written and Verbal Communication Skills

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.

Certificate of Sponsorship
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).

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.

Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).