NVS Group
Histology - Assistant Laboratory Scientist
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This is a great opportunity to work for the UK’s leading veterinary wholesaler.
Our business provides a next day supply and distribution service through our nationwide network of distribution depots, serving an average of 2750 customers every day.
Working for us you'll receive:
- Competitive rates of pay
- 29 days paid holiday (including bank holidays) (Pro rata)
- Staff discounts
- Life assurance benefit
- Cycle to work Scheme
- Free on-site parking and Wi-Fi
- A 24/7 confidential employee assistance programme – offering a range of support services to help you to resolve difficulties in your home-life
- Christmas vouchers
- Eye-sight vouchers
- Company pension scheme
Job Title: Assistant Laboratory Scientist
Reports to (title): Head of Histology
Department: Histology
Business unit: Nationwide Laboratories
Prepared by: Sandra Wells
Date: January 2026
Short description of the main purpose of the role
The Laboratory Assistant is an essential member of the Histology Department, supporting the delivery of accurate, high-quality, and timely diagnostic services. The role involves assisting in specimen receipt, specimen preparation, maintaining laboratory equipment and supplies, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards, and supporting the overall workflow of the laboratory. The post holder will contribute to a culture of continuous improvement, customer service excellence, and collaborative teamwork.
Core role accountabilities:
Specimen Processing & Slide Preparation
- Support preparation and processing of tissue samples, including labelling, handling, and tracking of specimens in accordance with SOPs.
- Support slide preparation processes by aiding with pre-analytical tasks such as slide labelling, specimen embedding, microtomy, and staining for Histological evaluation.
- Maintain accurate records of specimen receipt, handling, and storage.
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Sample and Inventory Management
- Receive, label, and log samples and laboratory consumables, ensuring traceability and compliance with protocols.
- Monitor stock levels of reagents, chemicals, and disposables; alert senior staff to low stock or procurement needs.
- Assist in the safe storage and disposal of laboratory materials in line with COSHH and safety guidelines.
Laboratory Equipment & Maintenance
- Clean and maintain laboratory equipment and workspaces to ensure a safe and organised environment.
- Perform basic equipment checks and assist in routine maintenance under guidance from senior staff.
- Report equipment faults or issues promptly.
Quality Control & Continuous Improvement
- Follow laboratory SOPs and quality control protocols with accuracy and diligence.
- Support internal quality assurance activities, including basic data collection and documentation.
- Participate in audits and compliance checks as required.
Team Support & Communication
- Work closely with Laboratory Scientists and other team members to support efficient workflow.
- Attend team meetings and briefings; provide feedback and contribute to service improvements.
- Communicate effectively with colleagues and escalate concerns as appropriate.
Training & Development
- Participate in on-the-job training and competency assessments.
- Demonstrate a commitment to learning and continuous professional development.
- Support new starters and contribute to a welcoming, professional work environment.
Health, Safety & Compliance
- Maintain a clean and safe work environment in line with the Health and Safety at Work Act and COSHH regulations.
- Report incidents, hazards, or near misses and participate in health and safety reviews.
- Follow all laboratory safety procedures and promote safe working practices.
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Personal attributes: Qualifications, experience, skills, knowledge and competencies required to fulfil the role
Essential
- Minimum qualification: A-Level, BTEC, or equivalent scientific qualification (Degree or equivalent preferred).
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organisational skills.
- Ability to work flexibly, collaboratively, and proactively under pressure.
Key Attributes
- High attention to detail and manual dexterity.
- Strong organisational skills with ability to prioritise tasks.
- Good communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Customer-focused with a commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
- Ability to follow instructions and work to established protocols.
- Demonstrated resilience and adaptability to changing priorities and workloads.
- Proficient in basic IT systems.
- Commitment to promoting a positive, professional working environment.
- Team player.
Applicants should be aware that in line with our Drugs and Alcohol policy we reserve the right to conduct random drug and alcohol tests.
NVS Group is committed to equality of opportunity and this underpins our employment and recruitment procedures. We use objective, job-related criteria when making appointment decisions and our selection criteria is based on skills, experience, qualifications, and an ability to do the job.
Due to the large number of applications, we receive, we regret that we will not contact candidates that have not been selected for interview. If you have not heard from us within 2 weeks, you should assume that you have not been successful on this occasion.
By continuing with your application for employment you are confirming you agree with our Privacy Notice which can be found at https://www.nvsweb.co.uk/
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