[ref. n87997318] Genetic Technologist - Birmingham
Flexible working arrangements may be considered and discussions with the recruiting manager regarding this are encouraged.
Job overview
The West Midlands Genomics Laboratory is recruiting for Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS) registered Genetic Technologists. The post that is currently available are for a permanent Genetic Technologists (AfC band 5), however we are also advertising pre-emptively for future positions, both permanent and fixed term, that may become available.The department is located at the Birmingham Women’s Hospital and is the lead laboratory in the Central and South Genomic Laboratory Hub, the largest of the seven national GLHs, performing in excess of 80,000 tests per annum. The department performs a wide range of genomic testing using a large variety of testing methodologies in order to fulfil the requirements of the National Genomic Test Directory.
We are looking for highly motivated individuals who are committed to a career in laboratory diagnostic genetics. Applicants should havegood interpersonal skills and be capable of working under pressure to tight deadlines. They should be team players, looking to expand their knowledge and experience in diagnostic genetics, have a strong interest in driving and improving the quality of diagnostic services and be able to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.Understanding of genomic technology and some experience in the interpretation of scientific data are desirable.
Main duties of the job
A Genetic Technologist will be required to undertake technical and analytical duties within a specified sub-section(s) of the laboratory. The post holder will perform standard highly accurate technical processes associated with testing for genetic disorders and carry out the analysis of data relating to this genomic testing.
They will be required to communicate complex technical, scientific and often sensitive information to colleagues within their department in both verbal and written forms. The role will also include training and supervision of Healthcare Science Assistants as well as coaching in specific techniques for all laboratory staff grades.Genetic technologists are also required to observe and maintain a high standard of laboratory health, safety and risk procedures; and is required to work to departmental Standard Operating Procedures, and current professional standards.
We invite applications from individuals who are registered as a Genetic Technologist with the Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS) or equivalent. However, given the broad range of opportunities that we have available we also invite applications from individuals with appropriate qualifications and experience who are willing to work towards registration.
Interview dates: TBC
Interviews are likely to entail two parts; a practical test for which you are likely to be required to attend site and an interview.
Informal enquiries welcome, please contact Emma Waldron or Ryan Byrne on 0121 335 8036
Working for our organisation
Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust is the first of its type in the UK. Our Trust was formed in February 2017 to drive forward our commitment to provide the highest quality, world-class physical and mental health care for our women, children and families.Uniting our hospitals means more seamless care; more investment to make greater advances in our specialist treatment and world-leading neo-natal and fetal work. Importantly, it also gives us a greater voice in shaping the future of family-centred care.
Birmingham Children's Hospital is a UK leading specialist paediatric centre with an international reputation in several areas.
Birmingham Women's Hospital is one of two dedicated women's hospitals in the UK, with the busiest single site maternity unit, delivering more than 8,200 babies a year offering a full range of gynaecological, maternity and neonatal care.
Forward Thinking Birmingham (FTB) Mental Health Services are a unique, innovative community and inpatient mental health partnership. Alongside partners FTB offers care pathways of mental health assessment and treatment for young people aged 0-25 years old.
Our Trust is committed to creating the best place to work. We believe in promoting and enhancing inclusion, diversity and equality and encourage applications from all areas of the community, who meet the criteria for the role, regardless of age, gender identity, disability, race, religion or sexual orientation.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Please refer to the attached job description and person specification to view the full details for this opportunity at Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust.
When completing your application, please ensure you have evidenced how you meet the job description and person specification to include transferable experience, qualifications, skills along with professional registration details (if applicable).
Occasionally we receive a large number of applications for our roles and when that happens we sometimes bring the closing date forward, so please apply promptly to avoid disappointment.
Person specification
Personal Skills/Abilities and Attributes
Essential criteria- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Good IT skills
- Ability to work under pressure
- Flexible approach to work
- To include late and early cover, bank holiday and weekend working as required
- Leadership skills
- Supervisory skills
- Training/coaching skills
- Enthusiasm to promote integrated working practices
Qualifications
Essential criteria- BSc. in a Biological Science, or equivalent experience
- Commitment to work towards registration with the appropriate body within an agreed reasonable time following appointment
- Active participation in CPD
- Registration with the Academy for Healthcare Science or other appropriate Healthcare Science registration body
- ACC/CMGS Certificate Competence in Genetic Technology; or equivalent training or MSc or PhD
Knowledge & Experience
Essential criteria- Experience in performing genetic laboratory techniques
- Sound knowledge of quality issues
- Good understanding of Health & Safety
- Ability to work with a team but also on own with minimum supervision
- Excellent technical and analytical skills
- Significant experience in a genetic diagnostic laboratory at career framework level 5, or equivalent
- Experience of report writing
- Experience of cytogenetic or molecular analysis
- Knowledge of the principles of human diagnostic genetic testing
Should any new information become available, you will be kept informed of this throughout your recruitment process.
As a Trust employee you are required to comply with all legislation and guidance relating to safeguarding children and adults with care and support needs, and promoting their health and welfare. You are required to inform the Head of Safeguarding of any safeguarding concerns about your own children or children you live with.This information will be treated in a confidential manner.