Medical Technical Officer B4

We have an opportunity for an energetic, enthusiastic and well-motivated individual to join the Molecular Diagnostics Department at the Royal Surrey Foundation Trust for a full time laboratory-based position.

The Department is part of Berkshire and Surrey Pathology Services (BSPS). Molecular Diagnostics is a specialist department providing services for other BSPS departments, associated Trust clinicians and external private and NHS organisations, enabling specific diagnosis of patients and enabling genetics-based, personalised oncology treatments.

The job advertised here is to assist in the provision of this specialist molecular diagnostics service.

We are looking for someone who is proactive, has a keen eye for detail and works well in a team environment. Key responsibilities will include DNA and RNA extraction (both manual and automated methods), PCR and other more complex assay set-up, primary analysis of results.

Full training will be given, but previous laboratory experience would be a significant advantage.

Job description

Please refer to the full Job description and person spec

To participate in the provision of an efficient and cost effective Molecular Diagnostic service within Surrey and Berkshire Pathology Services. To enhance the collaborative work between molecular and histology departments.

To prepare samples and perform both routine and limited special techniques efficiently and in a conscientious manner with respect to work pressures and quality of the service.

Participate in a range of duties within the department, under supervision or without supervision following successful competency assessment

Carry out biomedical procedures including maintenance, monitoring of sophisticated equipment and audit in accordance with departmental SOPs

Be able to effectively deal with simple day to day situations and problems, referring to Senior Biomedical Scientist staff when appropriate

Demonstrate a robust knowledge of national and local health and safety standards

Effectively maintain stock control, place orders and take appropriate action as required

Participate in the review of departmental SOPs

Ensure the safe disposal of specimens and waste and to ensure cleaning and maintenance of work areas and equipment is carried out in accordance with SOPs

Work with and process a range of clinical samples in the department

Ensures that samples meet acceptance criteria, dealing with any non-compliance in accordance with departmental protocols

Ensures sample is appropriate type for all tests and assesses samples for urgency, informing Biomedical Scientist staff of such samples

Is fully conversant with relevant departmental policies and Standard Operating Procedures, ensuring that personal performance complies with Accreditation standards

In conjunction with Biomedical Scientist (BMS) staff, ensures the validity of results by the use of appropriate control materials

Works in cooperation with BMS staff to ensure workload is processed in a timely and efficient manner

Performs telephone duties that include making and receiving calls from and to the laboratory.

To undertake sample reception, preparation, analysis and recording of results in accordance with approved procedures.

To undertake the reception and checking of specimens and request forms and to ensure accurate identification of specimens.

To accurately type patient details and required tests into the Pathology computer system.

Use a Microtome, to cut sections from tissue samples processed in paraffin wax.

To analyse sample using automated instrument and solve any technical problems with the machine as and when they arise.

Load automated machine with appropriate samples and reagents and solve any technical problems with the machine as and when they arise.

Assess quality and quantity of DNA and RNA in samples and ensure that these are appropriate for subsequent analysis

To understand which pre examination process is required for each of the samples to be assessed.

Use and maintain equipment within the department in compliance with departmental policy.

To be responsible for own work which will include all aspects of the technical work, equipment and quality system

To ensure the timely and efficient provision of diagnostics services

Person specification

Qualifications

Essential

• A levels or equivalent in relevant subjects

Desirable

• Degree in relevant biology-based subject
• HCPC registration
• Willing to undergo relevant training to ensure sound relevant knowledge

Knowledge

Essential

• Experience working in a relevant laboratory
• Experience & knowledge molecular diagnostic techniques and technology
• Able to understand and follow and develop Standard Operating Procedures
• Understanding of Health and Safety issues incl COSHH

Desirable

• Ability to write clearly.
• Possess basic IT skills & keyboard accuracy.
• Previous work within the NHS
• Data Entry experience (Winpath)

About the employer

Royal Surrey is a compassionate and collaborative acute and community Trust. Recognising that our 5000 colleagues are our greatest strength, we offer a comprehensive health and wellbeing program along with a commitment to developing and advancing your career. Our diverse and welcoming Royal Surrey family will ensure you that you feel valued from your initial interview through your entire tenure.

We are clinically led and provide joined up care by bridging the gap between hospital and community services alongside regional specialist cancer care. Our main acute hospital site is in Guildford with community hospital sites at Milford, Haslemere and Cranleigh. We provide adult community health services in homes across Guildford and Waverley.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) have given us an overall rating of Outstanding.

Royal Surrey has a strong reputation and history to build on. We are proud of our achievements and we are investing in our colleagues through our commitment to supporting professional development as well as investing more than £45 million in our physical environment and new equipment in the next few years. There has never been a better time to join us.

Although it isn't the Trusts normal practice, adverts may close early, so you are encouraged to submit an application as soon as possible.

A video about the Royal Surrey - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R96pMboIYdo