Healthcare Science Laboratory Technician Apprentice

Introduction

We are delighted to offer Healthcare Science Level 3 Apprenticeships across our Pathology Directorate. Pathology is the study of the causes and effects of disease on the human body, which underpins every aspect of patient care, from diagnostic testing and treatment advice to using cutting-edge genetic technologies and preventing disease.

About the Employer

Cambridge University Hospitals (CUH) NHS Foundation Trust comprises Addenbrooke’s Hospital and the Rosie Hospital in Cambridge. With over 13,000 staff and over 1100 beds the priorities of the Trust focus on a quality service which is all about people – patients, staff and partners. Recognised as providing ‘outstanding’ care to our patients and rated ‘Good’ overall by the Care Quality Commissioner, is testament to the skill and dedication of the people who work here. CUH’s values – Together- safe, kind, excellent – are at the heart of patient care, defining the way all staff work and behave. The Trust provides accessible high-quality healthcare for the local people of Cambridge, together with specialist services, dealing with rare or complex conditions for a regional, national and international population. 

What You'll Do

• To assist with the day-to-day laboratory processes e.g., maintaining laboratory instruments, logs etc. using standard operating procedures
• To assist with day-to-day housekeeping within the laboratory
• Collect samples from main pathology and GP specimen reception, clinics and wards as appropriate in a timely manner
• Requisition entry of samples in Beaker following local SOP
• Use laboratory information system (LIMS) to record sample storage after analysis
• Scan sample request cards and other associated paperwork into LIMS
• Carry out routine laboratory maintenance: cleaning centrifuges, defrosting freezers, cleaning water baths, etc.
• Carry out pre-analytical sample preparation as appropriate
• Under supervision and where commensurate with role, carry out analytical processes using standard operating procedures
• Under supervision, set up and carry out routine maintenance on laboratory analysers
• Follow all health and safety procedures throughout
• Assist in reagent stock management
• Preparation of buffers and reagents
• Cleaning and maintenance of pipettes
• Record stock requirements, deliveries and maintain storeroom
• Maintain clear, full and accurate records of work carried out
• Liaise with senior staff concerning problems that may arise
• Assist in the maintenance of general laboratory records and filing systems
• Actively participate and contribute to laboratory staff meetings

Training Outcome

Towards the end of the apprenticeship contract, and with support from the department and a dedicated apprenticeship team, you will have gained the knowledge and experience to enable you to apply for your next step in employment. We have a high percentage of previous apprentices who have successfully gained permanent employment with us and have gone on to do the Biomedical Science Degree (Level 6) Apprenticeship.

Skills Required

• Communication skills
• IT skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Team working
• Enthusiasm
• Positive work ethic
• Keen to learn
• Adaptable to change
• Motivated
• Flexible
• Punctual
• Ability to prioritise workload
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Desire to work in a laboratory
• Understand confidentiality

Qualifications

• Essential - GCSE - English (or equivalent) - 4/C or above
• Essential - GCSE - Maths (or equivalent) - 4/C or above
• Essential - GCSE - Science (or equivalent) - 4/C or above

Course Information

Course: Laboratory technician (level 3)

Level: 3

Route: Health and science

Apprenticeship Level: Advanced

Working Arrangements

Working Week: Monday to Friday normal office hours, times to be discussed and agreed (i.e., 8am to 4pm / 8.30am to 4.30pm / 9am to 5pm)

Expected Duration: 2 Years 3 Months

Number of Positions Available: 3

Training Provider: CSR SCIENTIFIC TRAINING LIMITED

This employer is part of the Disability Confident scheme, committed to employing disabled people.