Healthcare Science Support Worker

The Food, Water and Environmental (FW&E) Microbiology Laboratories are specialist microbiology laboratories within the UKHSA. Based in 3 sites across the country, the laboratories are geographically well placed to work with local authorities to protect the public from health threats posed by contaminated food, water and the environment. The York FW&E Laboratory provides a microbiology testing and advisory service to Local Authorities, Port Health Authorities, hospitals and commercial clients across the North of England. The laboratory is accredited to ISO 17025 and is recognised as an Official Laboratory for the microbiological examination of food and foodstuffs. The post holder will perform a range of routine tasks, including sample reception and preparation and to work as part of a team to perform routine examination of samples and update laboratory IT systems. The post holder will be expected to work 37.5 hrs flexibly between 7:30am - 7:00pm Monday to Friday and Saturday and Sunday as required., Your main duties will be:

• Contribute to the provision of an analytical microbiology service for food, water and environmental samples
• Under supervision, assist in the receipt of samples into the laboratory and completing pre-analysis processing of specimens
• Working as part of a team to undertake routine preparation and examination of a wide range of samples under supervision
• To be competent in the use of equipment including autoclaves and ovens, collection and disposal of discard material and the wash-up and sterilisation of glassware
• Respond to requests and communicate accurately, information and results to other laboratory staff, as required
• Refer queries to other, more senior staff, as appropriate
• Ensure efficient running and contribute to routine maintenance of all equipment, which will include high cost, complex equipment requiring calibration and regular maintenance
  
  We pride ourselves as being an employer of choice, where Everyone Matters promoting equality of opportunity to actively encourage applications from everyone, including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce.
UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders. To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.