Sample Handler

Location Bracknell
Discipline: Lab
Salary: ££10.20 - £12.40 per hour
Contact name: Brenda Moore

Job ref: BRAC567_1640864291
Published: about 2 years ago

Fixed Term Contract

We're currently seeking Sample Handlers based in Bracknell, to work in a new COVID-19 Lighthouse Testing, as part of the NHS Test and Trace programme.

As well as playing a vital role in supporting society's return to a more normal way of life by helping to break the chains of COVID-19 transmission, you will also gain invaluable experience and exposure to some of the country's most highly skilled individuals in the scientific community.

This represents a once in a lifetime opportunity to go above and beyond to support public health, while contributing towards the fight towards the global pandemic.

Your Responsibilities:

As a Sample Handler, you will be responsible for:

  • To assist in the departmental work as instructed, following SOPs under the supervision of the site laboratory managers, team leaders, training staff and / or scientific staff

  • Receipt of COVID-19 testing samples into the department from Logistics

  • Unpacks samples and checks that they are intact, suitable for testing and appropriately labelled with tracking bar codes, raising any problems with a senior colleague where necessary

  • Enters the sample details into the laboratory computer systems

  • To keep the laboratory manager informed of all matters regarding laboratory procedures and help with the smooth running of the department, to minimise errors and maximise efficiency through agreed priorities and to achieve testing targets.

  • Following SOPs, undertake waste disposal of laboratory samples and used consumables (including the operation of an autoclave if required)

  • Assist in monitoring stock control of consumables held in stores

  • Regular and thorough cleaning of equipment and work benches, complying with SOPs

  • To inform a team leader, section head or scientist of any equipment problems

  • To understand and acknowledge limits of capability and seek advice as appropriate

  • To participate in the training and assessments for specified areas of the laboratory

  • To complete programmes to a satisfactory level of competence to support all areas under supervision

  • To ensure the safety of staff, visitors, and the department by checking that Risk Assessment, COSHH and Local Rules are followed and to inform the laboratory manager of any potential risks

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

Your Experience:

This role requires does not require previous experience; however, it is essential that you can:

  • Use computerised systems

  • Be observant of detail

  • Input data onto a database accurately

  • Manage control of stock, consumables, and equipment effectively

  • Ability to prioritise tasks and organise daily work and make clear decisions

  • Work as part of a team to meet deadlines

  • Understanding that work relates directly to the NHS Test and Trace response to the COVID- 19 pandemic and to protecting public health


Education:

  • Standard Level of Education (GCSEs in Maths and English)

In Return:

As well as a competitive rate of pay, you'll receive comprehensive training on relevant warehouse procedures and equipment, which utilises the latest technologies.

This role will require full flexibility as the shifts include day, evening, and weekend shifts. The shift pattern is a 3 on 3 off rotation, which swaps from day and night shifts every 12 days. Please speak to a member of the team to discuss this further.

You will also be joining a diverse and hugely welcoming team. Diversity at NHS Test and Trace is about reflecting the communities we serve, holding the principles of equality and inclusion at the heart of everything we do and all that we stand for, embracing differences, creating possibilities, and growing together. We aim to foster a culture where individuals of all backgrounds feel confident in bringing their whole selves to work, feel included and their talents are nurtured, empowering them to contribute fully to our purpose.

This is literally a once in a lifetime opportunity to join a team of exciting individuals, all focused on delivering the best possible outcome to combat against the pandemic.

If you're ready for a new challenge and are ready to start work ASAP, please apply today.

Please note: Impellam Group is working in partnership with NHS Test and Trace, so you will be employed on a fixed-term employment basis with an Employing Agency (either SRG, Medacs, Lorien or Blue Arrow) within Impellam Group, in line with contractual employment terms and conditions set out by the respective Employing Agency, and not directly employed by NHS Test and Trace.