Assistant Technical Officer (ATO) - Automated Chemistry inPlymouth inPlymouth PUBLISHED WED 4 DEC 2024

Band 2 PERMANENT GOOD SALARY

INTERDISCIPLINARY TEAM NHS WEEKEND

University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust rfZyg7lg

Opportunity to work in a dynamic healthcare environment focused on patient care and laboratory efficiency.

Experience with advanced automated technology, enhancing technical skills in laboratory procedures.

Collaboration with senior staff and interdisciplinary teams, leading to professional growth and networking opportunities.

Significant role in supporting timely processing of patient samples, directly impacting patient outcomes.

Involvement in quality assurance processes that ensure accurate and reliable laboratory results.

Routine training responsibilities, allowing for skill development and mentorship of new staff.

The Assistant Technical Officer (ATO) - Automated Chemistry at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust will collaborate with senior and support staff across laboratory sections to ensure the efficient processing of patient samples, catering to a wide array of patients and trust referrals. Key responsibilities include operating and maintaining Automated Track and HbA1c analysers, managing stocks and reagents, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures, and processing samples for analysis. The role requires participation in a 24/7 rota, assisting with sample preparation, data entry, and communication with healthcare staff, while also supporting the training of new employees and maintaining compliance with laboratory policies.

Candidates will be preferred from within the Trust and those with 'Priority' or 'At Risk' status, particularly those with relevant recent experience. The position demands regular checks and updates of documents, cleanliness in the work area, and troubleshooting alongside senior staff to enhance service quality in the Biochemistry section of the Pathology department.

The post holder will work together with senior staff and support staff in all sections of the laboratory to produce a timely, high quality, accurate and cost effective services.

The post holder will support the timely processing of patient samples serving all those patients attending PHNT, PCTs representing 100 General Practices and specialist assays referred to us from other Trusts within the Peninsula.

Going forward as UHP Pathology department works to deliver its vision then there will be an expectation of interdepartmental working across various Pathology departments.

***Preference will be given to internal Trust staff, as well as 'Priority' and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon who are able to display recent relevant experience as dictated by the Person Specification.***

To assist with the operation of the Automated Track and HbA1c analysers in the Biochemistry section. Including maintenance, troubleshooting and patient sample analysis.
To partake in Automated Chemistry stock checks and reagent management.
To replenish consumables in the Automated Chemistry Section
To follow Standard Operating Procedures relating to each section/area.
To be available for the 24/7 rota and EWD/Weekend rota in Reception/Automation.
To prepare biological material collected from patients, including blood samples for analysis and analyse these following a Standard Operating Procedures.
To assist Reception as and when required with the receipt of samples, sample preparation, requestdata entry and to make and receive telephone calls from other healthcare staff.

About us
- To carry out all morning maintenance on analysers/track.- Process samples according to the most recent SOP in each section.- Ensure all areas are tidy and clean.- Keep all documents associated with each section up to date (Checklists and Q-Pulse).- Working together with colleagues, ensure the reception area delivers a timely processing of samples and test requests by assisting when necessary.- To perform Work File Enquiries in each section and collecting any outstanding samples for analysis.- Ensure senior staff, are made aware when stock levels are low.- To use office equipment including computers, printers, fax machines and photocopiers.- To use the laboratory IT system to input results of tests and to deal with enquiries for results, and to use the Trust PIMS system in order to look up patient details.- To operate complex laboratory analysers in order to carry out investigations- Will assist senior staff in the training of new staff.- Assist in the receipt, processing and storage of all samples derived from clinical trials including those for which the department derives income.- Remove samples and request forms from their plastic bags whilst checking the data on the sample matches that on the request form.- To bring to the attention of senior staff all rejected samples due to inadequate patient ID or incorrect sample type for the test requested, or to contact the necessary persons, in accordance with the SOP for the area, to resolve any non-compliance with policy.

More information related to this job opportunity, from jobsincare:

Here are 5 questions you could be asked if you apply for this job: Start practice interview... NEW!

1. Can you describe your experience with automated chemistry analysers, specifically in the context of maintenance and troubleshooting?

2. What Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are you familiar with in a laboratory environment, and how do you ensure compliance with them?

3. How would you approach the preparation and analysis of patient samples? What steps do you take to ensure accuracy and reliability?

4. Describe any experience you have with reagent management and stock checks. How do you ensure that stock levels are maintained effectively?

5. In the event of a malfunction with an analyser, what steps would you take to troubleshoot the issue before consulting senior staff?

Start a practice interview... NEW!

1. Can you describe your experience with automated chemistry analysers, specifically in the context of maintenance and troubleshooting?

2. What Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are you familiar with in a laboratory environment, and how do you ensure compliance with them?

3. How would you approach the preparation and analysis of patient samples? What steps do you take to ensure accuracy and reliability?

4. Describe any experience you have with reagent management and stock checks. How do you ensure that stock levels are maintained effectively?

5. In the event of a malfunction with an analyser, what steps would you take to troubleshoot the issue before consulting senior staff?

Start a practice interview... NEW!

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Useful skills for an Assistant Technical Officer (ATO) - Automated Chemistry: Click to view

To work as an Assistant Technical Officer (ATO) in the UK, you typically need a combination of technical skills, analytical abilities, and interpersonal skills. Here are some key skills and qualifications that are often required or beneficial for this role:

Technical Skills:

1. Understanding of Scientific Principles: A good grasp of the relevant scientific principles related to the field you are working in (e.g., biology, chemistry, engineering).

2. Laboratory Skills: Familiarity with laboratory equipment and techniques, including sampling, testing, and analysis.

3. Data Analysis: Proficiency in data collection, interpretation, and reporting, often using statistical software or databases.

4. Technical Documentation: Ability to prepare and maintain clear and accurate technical reports, procedures, and documentation.

5. IT Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant software tools.

Analytical Skills:

1. Problem Solving: Strong analytical skills to troubleshoot issues and develop practical solutions.

2. Attention to Detail: Ability to maintain accuracy and attention to detail in your work and documentation.

Interpersonal Skills:

1. Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to convey technical information clearly to colleagues and stakeholders.

2. Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

3. Customer Service: Skills in dealing with internal and external clients or stakeholders.

Personal Attributes:

1. Adaptability: Willingness to learn new techniques and adapt to changing technologies or methods.

2. Time Management: Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize workloads effectively.

3. Initiative: Proactive attitude towards identifying areas for improvement and undertaking responsibilities.

Qualifications:

- Typically, a relevant degree (or equivalent qualification) in a scientific or technical discipline is preferred.

- Practical experience in a relevant field or laboratory setting can significantly enhance your candidacy.

Additional Certifications:

- Depending on the specific ATO position, additional certifications or training may be beneficial, such as health and safety training, quality management systems training, or specific laboratory techniques.

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50.41670608520508 -4.113712310791016 Plymouth

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