Job Description

Details

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Reference number

416320

Salary

29,970 - 36,483
(Outer London HCAS of up to 15% payable if appointed on NHS AfC Band 5)
GBP

Job grade

Executive Officer

Other
Per annum, pro rata. Grade EO or NHS Afc: Band 5

Contract type

Permanent

Type of role

Science

Working pattern

Flexible working, Full-time, Job share, Part-time

Number of jobs available

1

Contents

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Location About the job Benefits Things you need to know Apply and further information

Location

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UKHSA Colindale, London, NW9 5EQ.

About the job

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Job summary

We are seeking a Healthcare Scientist (EO) or a Biomedical Scientist (NHS AfC Band 5) who is HCPC registered.


Candidates holding HCPC registration will be appointed on NHS Terms & Conditions at NHS AfC Band 5. Candidates without HCPC registration will be appointed on Civil Service Terms and Conditions at EO (Executive Officer) grade.


Salary bands:

AfC Band 5: 29,970 - 36,483 per annum plus outer London HCAS of up to 15% payable Band 5. EO (Inner): 31,224 - 36,176 per annum

The Gastrointestinal Bacteria Reference Unit (GBRU) is a National Reference Laboratory and provides specialist and reference services for a specific range of hazard group 2 and 3 gastrointestinal and foodborne bacterial pathogens notably Bacillus cereus, Clostridium perfringens, C. botulinum, E. coli, Listeria, Campylobacter, Helicobacter, Salmonella, Shigella, Yersinia and Vibrio species.


GBRU works at local, regional, national and international levels to reduce the impact of food, water and environmentally borne illnesses on people's health. Activities include provision of bacterial typing services to assist national surveillance, the detection and investigation of outbreaks and specialist microbiological services for the examination of clinical, food, water and environmental samples.


Currently, a combination of phenotypic and genotypic methods is used to detect, identify and type bacterial isolates and this increasingly involves the use of whole genome sequencing. We are streamlining workflows for different pathogens across the unit to facilitate implementation of new technology whilst maintaining the capability to perform standard reference methods. GBRU has a high propriety in ensuring the safe running of laboratory services and the safety of all staff.

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Working for your organisation

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.

Please visit our careers site for more information https://gov.uk/ukhsa/careers

Job description

This is a laboratory-based role within GBRU with primary focus on service delivery, training staff to undertake laboratory procedures to a high degree of competence and, assisting senior staff members to maintain an excellent Safety and Quality Management Systems within the Unit to ensure compliance with accreditation standards.


The main duties will be:

To provide technical support within the Unit in ensuring that GBRU provides a national and international service in all aspects of the work of the Section; this includes molecular and conventional microbiological analysis on a range of foodborne bacterial isolates and clinical and environment specimens. To work with senior staff to ensure that both the service and non-service work of the unit is carried out in a safe, effective, timely manner and operates to a quality system. To participate in research and development activities within GBRU.

The post holder will provide technical support within the Unit in ensuring that GBRU provides a national and international service in all aspects of the work of the Section; this includes molecular and conventional microbiological analysis on a range of foodborne bacterial isolates and clinical and environmental specimens and isolates. The work of microbiology Reference Units includes clinical microbiological advice and diagnosis, complex reference, service delivery, methodology development, microbial epidemiology, investigation of national and uncommon outbreaks, response to international health alerts, and advice on the risks posed by various infections. Clinical samples and isolates are received from public health departments, the National Health Service and commercial laboratories across the UK and internationally for specialist testing, characterisation and susceptibility testing.


The post holder will be responsible for the efficient processing of specimens and performing additional laboratory duties to ensure the efficient day to day performance of the laboratory, under the supervision of more senior Biomedical Scientist and Clinical Scientist staff. To work with senior staff to ensure that both the service and non-service work of the unit is carried out in a safe, effective, timely manner and operates to a quality system.


The post holder will participate in research and development activities within GBRU.


Service delivery

To receive, sort, unpack, label and process specimens in the laboratory. To assist in the provision and organisation of safe, timely, high quality and economical CL2 and CL3 microbiological, serological, and molecular laboratory duties, guided by standard operating procedures (SOPs) within GBRU To validate clinical results technically. To undertake DNA-based detection and typing for a range of pathogens with assays and techniques such as real-time polymerase chain reaction and whole genome sequencing (WGS) To analyse and validate clinical and reference-based results, support the senior scientists in dealing with laboratory queries and maintain professional registration. Assist in providing a flexible laboratory response to emergency public health needs including investigation of incidents, of deliberate release of pathogenic organisms and to general investigations of illness as appropriate. Assist with evaluation and implementation of new techniques / methods to the unit that enhance effectiveness of the laboratory work. Writing and updating SOPs and controlled documentation. To provide technical support to GBRU Reference Services as appropriate including adjusting day-to-day work priorities to meet changing demands or emergency requirements. Writing and updating SOPs and controlled documentation. Dealing with telephone enquires in relation to clinical specimens. Assist senior staff in the management of supporting staff across GBRU and deputise for the HEO when required.

Health and Safety

In collaboration with the GBRU Safety Officer and complying with UKHSA safety policies and procedures to: Ensure that health, safety and welfare is an afforded priority over other issues and to demonstrate a commitment to health, safety and welfare regarding self, all staff and visitors in the unit Assist in maintaining a safe working environment within the unit ensuring risk assessments and COSHH are carried out as and when required and safety policy is adhered to Report all accidents and incidents or near misses, dangerous situations or shortcomings in health and safety training instructions and assist in taking remedial action Participate in the internal and external safety audits as required and implement any arising corrective actions Your attention is drawn to the Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974 which requires you to take reasonable care for the health and safety of yourself and others who may be affected by your acts and omissions at work; and co-operate with the UKHSA on any matters of health and safety.

Information Technology

Entry of results into LIMS system and liaison with senior staff in sending laboratory reports. Answering telephone queries.

Quality

Maintain a high standard of work and contribute to developing the service of the laboratory so that service delivery is safe effective and economical and follows best practice according to ISO15189 and 17025 standards.

Staff Management and Training

Train and supervise other staff, visitors and students.
Support Services & Equipment
Oversee the service and maintenance of equipment Ensure performance checks on equipment are performed and to take appropriate corrective action if equipment fails to meet specification.

Strategy, Policy and Service Development

Contribute to GBRU strategic policies and encourage innovations and develop practices that enhance the effectiveness of the section's work

Please see the job description for the full list of duties and responsibilities.

Person specification

Essential Criteria

BSc in Microbiology or relevant biological science or equivalent level of qualification, or equivalent experience of working in a routine microbiology laboratory at containment level 2 including good knowledge of molecular and microbiology techniques and principles. Evidence of CPD Experience and knowledge of working in a microbiology laboratory at containment level 2 Good experience and knowledge of multiple laboratory techniques including phenotypic and molecular methods. Experience in working as part of a team. Good understanding of quality & safety principles and procedures Problem solving skills and ability to respond to sudden unexpected demands. Independent thinker with demonstrated good judgement, problem-solving and analytical skills Use of micropipettes, sub-culturing organisms - good manual dexterity and attention to detail. Able to work without supervision - ability to prioritise work in a timely manner - good organisational skills. Ability to supervise and organise the daily work for self and others - training skills. An understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships

Desirable Criteria

HCPC registration as a Biomedical Scientist.

Benefits

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Learning and development tailored to your role An environment with flexible working options A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity As the role is available under either AfC or Civil Service T&Cs depending on your registration, your pension scheme will align accordingly.

Things you need to know

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Selection process details

Stage 1: Application & Sift

You will be required to complete an application form. You will be assessed on the listed essential criteria which have been selected from the job description, and this will be in the form of a:

Application form ('Employer/ Activity history' section on the application) 1000 word supporting statement

This should outline how your skills, experience, and knowledge, provide evidence of your suitability for the role, with reference to the essential criteria.


Please note you will not be able to upload your CV. You must complete the application form in as much detail as possible. Please do not email us your CV.


The Application form and Statement of Suitability will be marked together.


Longlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we will longlist into 3 piles of:

Meets all essential criteria Meets some essential criteria Meets no essential criteria

Please note that only those applications that meet all essential criteria will be put through to shortlisting.


Shortlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we will shortlist on:

BSc in Microbiology or relevant biological science or equivalent level of qualification, or equivalent experience of working in a routine microbiology laboratory at containment level 2 including good knowledge of molecular and microbiology techniques and principles. Good experience and knowledge of multiple laboratory techniques including phenotypic and molecular methods.

If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to interview and assessment.


Please do not exceed 1000 words. We will not consider any words over and above this number.


Feedback will not be provided at this stage.

Stage 2: Interview

You will be invited to a face-to-face interview. In exceptional circumstances, we may be able to offer a remote interview.


Behaviours, technical, experience, ability and strengths will be tested at interview.


The Behaviours tested during the interview stage will be:

Changing and improving Managing a quality service Working together


Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.

Eligibility Criteria

This vacancy is open to all Civil Service employees and employees of accredited non-departmental public bodies (NDPBs) who were appointed on merit following a fair and open competition; or were appointed to a permanent post through an exception in the Civil Service Commissioners' rules. Prior agreement to be released on a loan basis must be obtained before commencing the application process. In the case of Civil Servants, the terms of the loan will be agreed between the home and host department and the Civil Servant. This includes grade on return.

Location

This role is being offered as lab based in Colindale, NW9 5EQ. Please note that hybrid working is not available for this role.

Security Clearance Level Requirement

Successful candidates must pass a disclosure and barring security check.


Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is Counter-terrorist Checks.


For meaningful National Security Vetting checks to be carried out individuals need to have lived in the UK for a sufficient period of time. You should normally have been resident in the United Kingdom for the last 3 years as the role requires Counter Terrorism Check (CTC) clearance. UK residency less than the outlined periods may not necessarily bar you from gaining national security vetting and applicants should contact the Vacancy Holder / Recruiting Manager listed in the advert for further advice.

Reasonable Adjustments

The Civil Service is committed to making sure that our selection methods are fair to everyone. To help you during the recruitment process, we will consider any reasonable adjustments that could help you. An adjustment is a change to the recruitment process or an adjustment at work. This is separate to the Disability Confident Scheme. If you need an adjustment to be made at any point during the recruitment process you should contact the recruitment team in confidence as soon as possible to discuss your needs.


You can find out more information about reasonable adjustments across the Civil Service here: https://www.civil-service-careers.gov.uk/reasonable-adjustments/

International Police Check

If you have spent more than 6 months abroad over the last 3 years you may need an International Police Check. This would not necessarily have to be in a single block, and it could be time accrued over that period.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Your application may be rejected and/or you may be subject to disciplinary action if evidence of plagiarism is detected. Examples of plagiarism can include presenting the ideas and experience of others, or generated by artificial intelligence (AI), as your own.

Internal Fraud check

If successful for this role as one aspect of pre-employment screening, applicant's personal details - name, national insurance number and date of birth - will be checked against the Cabinet Office Internal Fraud Hub and anyone included on the database will be refused employment unless they can show exceptional circumstances. Currently this is only for External candidates to the Civil Service.

Careers website

Please visit our careers site for more information https://gov.uk/ukhsa/careers




Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.

Security

Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is counter-terrorist check .



See our vetting charter .
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.

Nationality requirements

This job is broadly open to the following groups:


UK nationals nationals of the Republic of Ireland nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020 Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
Further information on nationality requirements

Working for the Civil Service

The Civil Service Code sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.



We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles .
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.

Diversity and Inclusion

The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy .

Apply and further information

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Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.

Contact point for applicants

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Job contact :

Name : Jon Payne Email : jonathan.payne@ukhsa.gov.uk
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Recruitment team

Email : recruitment@ukhsa.gov.uk

Further information

The law requires that selection for appointment to the Civil Service is on merit on the basis of fair and open competition as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's Recruitment Principles. If you feel your application has not been treated in accordance with the Recruitment Principles, and you wish to make a complaint, in the first instance, you should contact UKHSA Public Accountability Unit via email: Complaints@ukhsa.gov.uk If you are not satisfied with the response you receive from the Department, you can contact the Civil Service Commission: Visit the Civil Service Commission website: https://civilservicecommission.independent.gov.uk