North Bristol NHS Trust
Specimen Reception Assistant
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Specimen Reception Assistant
Bristol NHS Foundation Trust – Assistant, Specimen Reception (Bristol Genetics Laboratory)
About the Role
North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT) and University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) have merged as of 1st July 2026 to form Bristol NHS Foundation Trust. This merge creates a stronger, unified organisation that delivers better patient outcomes, fairer care, and greater opportunities for staff.
We value a healthy work-life balance and welcome discussions about flexible working arrangements to accommodate individual needs.
Bristol NHS Foundation Trust is committed to diversity and inclusion and particularly encourages applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) candidates who are currently underrepresented within the organisation.
Note: Our job adverts may close early if sufficient applications are received, so apply promptly if interested.
Job Overview
Bristol Genetics Laboratory (BGL), part of the South West Genomic Laboratory Hub (SW GLH), delivers critical genomic testing for cancer and rare diseases across the South West region. As a large, well-equipped, and friendly laboratory, we value bringing new perspectives into the team. The laboratory is expanding its Specimen Reception operation and seeks Assistants to support this fast-paced mission.
Key Details
- Operating hours: Open 8.00 AM–10:00 PM, including weekends and bank holidays.
- Flexible working: Part-time roles, weekend shifts, and compressed hours available.
- Training: Full support and training provided.
- Qualities required:
- Strong basic education (GCSE or equivalent in English, Maths, and Science preferred).
- Excellent keyboard/data entry skills.
- Meticulous, calm, and organised approach.
- Team culture: Friendly, diverse, and inclusive environment.
Key Responsibilities
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The Assistant, Specimen Reception will play a critical role in the preparation team, handling the initial stage of the specimen journey in Bristol Genetics Laboratory. Core duties include:
Logistics and Sample Management
- Unpack and process deliveries to ensure biological samples and referral information are accurately organised.
- Input patient and test data via the laboratory’s computer system with precision.
- Ensure high standards of accuracy and efficiency in specimen handling.
Technical Team Support
- Assist in training new staff as directed.
- Grade appraisal participation according to Trust policies.
Operational Efficiency
- Maintain strict compliance with lab protocols, safety regulations, and quality control procedures.
- Activate internal and external quality checks as part of routine processes.
- Attend mandatory training sessions to maintain certification.
Working for Bristol NHS Foundation Trust
We are one of the largest healthcare trusts in the South West England, providing hospital and community care for residents of Bristil, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire. Our mission is:
"To enable our teams to become the best they can be, delivering exceptional, client-focused healthcare."
This philosophy is encapsulated in our core values:
- Caring – Putting patients’ and colleagues’ needs at the heart of our work.
- Ambitious – Continuously improving for better outcomes.
- Respectful – Valuing every individual’s unique contributions.
- Supportive – Collaborating as a team.
Training and Development
We support staff health and wellbeing, offering:
- Childcare Salary Sacrifice Scheme (tax-free support for on-site childcare).
- NHS Pension Scheme membership.
- Multiple dedicated support teams for physical, psychological, and financial mentorship.
- Comprehensive career development opportunities.
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Person Specification
Education & Training
Essential:
- GCSE standard or equivalent in English, Maths, and Science.
Work Experience
Essential:
- Experience working in a team environment.
- Proficiency in computer systems and data input.
Desirable:
- Familiarity with pathology laboratory support roles.
Skills & Abilities
Essential:
- Strong interpersonal and written/verbal communication skills.
- IT/data entry proficiency.
- Ability to track workloads, initiate tasks, and work autonomously under supervision.
- Confidentiality awareness and strict adherence to health & safety guidelines.
Desirable:
- Basic knowledge of sample handling and testing requirements.
Commitment to Inclusion & Bayer Scams
The Trust:
- Actively fosters a diverse and inclusive workforce, reflecting local demographics.
- Zero-tolerance policy for malicious fake emails, phishing schemes, or payment requests—always verify communication via the official Trac system or standard NHS emails:
- OFFICIAL EMails:
[recruit.trac.jobs](https://recruit.trac.jobs)or*nhs.net`**.
- OFFICIAL EMails:
- Every job offer automatically links to the NHS electronic records system.
Declarations:
- All applicants must share data accurately and declare the use of generative AI tools in their applications.
- English fluency is mandatory (immigration standards apply).
- Staff training records ** tracker for compliance with legal requirements**.
Next Steps
Apply swiftly—vacuancy notices may close rapidly! Prospective hires: shortlisted through alignment with the Person Specification. Interviews are typically scheduled within 3 weeks of bidding forecluse. Disterraform workplace addresses in your employment records to expedite reference checks.
Come journey with us—we shape Bristol’s future in healthcare together!
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