Job Description

Details

-----------

Reference number

439453

Salary

32,624 - 37,737
Per annum, pro rata
A Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%
GBP

Job grade

Executive Officer

Contract type

Permanent

Business area

Science, Healthcare

Type of role

Health Professionals

Science

Other

Working pattern

Full-time, Compressed hours

Number of jobs available

1

Contents

------------

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

Location

------------


This role is being offered as lab based at our Scientific Campus in Colindale, London.




If based at one of our scientific campuses, you will be required to have a Counter Terrorism Check security vetting check as a minimum. 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.




In exceptional circumstances 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.

About the job

-----------------

Job summary

External Quality Assessment (EQA) Services is part of UKHSA Quality and Regulatory Assurance directorate and provides EQA schemes (also known as proficiency testing (PT) schemes) for food, water and clinical microbiology laboratories throughout the United Kingdom, and worldwide. Results reported by microbiology laboratories often play a significant role in health protection and managing public health incidents; tools such as EQA/PT is essential to enable laboratories demonstrate that their results are accurate, reliable and reproducible.


The Healthcare Scientist Practitioner will:

Work within the laboratory team Assist in the preparation of EQA specimens for UK NEQAS for Microbiology. This involves applying knowledge of clinical microbiology in the design, quality control and stability testing of these specimens using routine methods commonly applied in clinical diagnostic microbiology Take part in the data transfer and validation of participants' results and data entry of in-house test results onto computer databases Work as a member of a team liaising closely with colleagues from the same team, and with other teams working on common activities Participate in quality assurance audits and maintain up to date records in QPulse daily Work to GLP and GMP in compliance with ISO 17043 accreditation

This is a full time role, with the possibility of condensed hours over a 4 day week.


This role involves performing substantial volumes of manual pipetting for sample preparation.

#

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

United Kingdom National External Quality Assessment Service (UK NEQAS) for Microbiology is hosted within UKHSA as part of EQA (External quality assessment) Services department. The department aims to provide EQA services to participants worldwide. Registered scheme participants receive regular distributions of specimens of known but undisclosed content which, if examined by the participants using routine procedures, provide a valuable tool for the management of quality within the laboratory. EQA is provided by the Food and Water Proficiency Testing Unit and UK NEQAS for Microbiology. (EQA services are self-financing and monies are obtained by subscription to the services).


UK NEQAS for Microbiology provides:

Clinical EQA services to participants worldwide. Web based EQA for individual participants Training in different areas of Microbiology, EQA and quality management systems.

Microbiology covered includes mycology, bacteriology (with antimicrobial susceptibility testing), virology, parasitology and schemes based on a range of technologies including proteomic, molecular detection methods and conventional methods. Schemes are under constant review and development. The schemes provide an international benchmark for quality. There are approximately 2000 participants in over 100 countries.


See our website for further information: www.ukneqasmicro.org.uk

Technical/Scientific Duties

Work responsibly and safely with large volumes of organisms in hazard groups 2/3 on daily basis. Prepare all types of quality assessment specimens distributed. Undertake quality control and stability testing of these specimens applying knowledge of diagnostic microbiology. Ensure all processes and results are documented in accordance with quality requirements. Ensure all non-conforming results are fully investigated and are brought to the attention of the scheme manager Participate in rotation around the various sections within the clinical microbiology schemes.

Professional Development

You should pursue a programme of continuous professional development in accordance with any relevant professional registration or statutory requirements, while maintaining appropriate awareness of service provider requirements.

To participate in all mandatory training as required, i.e. fire safety, information governance and all other mandatory training. Develop and maintain good working relationships with staff

Personal & People Development

Actively participate in annual performance and development revie Actively participate and maintain a continuing professional development programme and be aware of relevant developments in their field Develop professional/management expertise by undertaking further appropriate training as required Ensure the induction, education, training and professional development of staff.

Service Improvement

Work with other staff to improve working practices.

Health, Safety & Security

In collaboration with the Laboratory Safety Officer, and complying with UKHSA safety policies and procedures:

Ensure that health, safety and welfare is an afforded priority over other issues and demonstrate a commitment to health, safety and welfare regarding self, staff and visitors.
Work in a safe manner.
Report/notify all accidents and incidents or near misses, dangerous situations or shortcomings in health and safety training instructions via the appropriate management structure. Participate in the internal and external safety audits, as required. Comply with safety policies, procedures, COSHH and risk assessments. Co-operate on matters of health and safety to enable UKHSA to comply with its health and safety responsibilities.

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 UKHSA on any matters of health and safety.

Quality

In collaboration with the Quality Team:

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. Contribute to internal and external quality assurance programmes Ensure compliance with UKAS and other accreditation and certification standards. Contribute to internal and external audit programmes and corrective actions. Take every effort to suggest quality improvements

Information & Knowledge

Interpret and enter participants' data into computer database Procurement & Commissioning
To maintain stress including, stock control and receiving goods in the department.

#

Main duties of the job

Technical/Scientific Duties Communication and key working relationships Personal & People Development Service Improvement Health, Safety & Security Quality Information & Knowledge

This list is not exhaustive.

Communication and key working relationships

The post holder will develop working relationships and communicate regularly with a wide range of individuals, clinical and non-clinical, internal and external to UKHSA. This will include:

Internal

Required to liaise with other technical, scientific and administrative staff in UK NEQAS and across EQA Services Plan daily work activities with supervisor

External

Other colleagues in UKHSA

Person specification

Essential criteria

BSc in Biomedical Science or equivalent level qualification GCSE or equivalent qualifications at C (4) or above in English and Maths Clinical diagnostic microbiology laboratory experience Experience of Quality Management systems Experience and understanding of laboratory safety and procedures and can work to written procedures Management of time - able to plan and use own time economically and effectively Ability to work with minimal supervision working to tight and often changing timescales Good interaction skills with ability to communicate with staff at all levels, both written and oral Evidence of use of computer software and packages (e.g. MS Office) Having good organisation skills, team worker and ability to work to deadlines Methodical with good attention to detail and ability to identify and solve practical problems An understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships. Hard working, motivated and interested in their work

Desirable criteria

HCPC registration Experience of freeze-drying

Benefits

------------


Alongside your salary of 32,624, UK Health Security Agency contributes 9,451 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.Learning and development tailored to your role An environment with flexible working options A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity A Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%

Things you need to know

---------------------------

Selection process details

This vacancy is using Success Profiles and will assess your Behaviours, Experience, Technical Skills and Strengths.

Stage 1: Application & Sift

Success profiles

You will be required to complete an application form. You will be assessed on the listed 12 essential criteria, 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.


The Application form and Supporting Statement will be marked together.


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.

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
Those falling into the 'Meets

all

essential criteria' pile will progress to shortlisting.


Feedback will not be provided at this stage.

Shortlisting:

In the event of a large number of applications we will shortlist on the following essential criteria:

BSc in Biomedical Science or equivalent level qualification GCSE or equivalent qualifications at C (4) or above in English and Maths

Desirable criteria may be used in the event of a large number of applications / large amount of successful candidates.


If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to interview & 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

Success Profiles

You will be invited to a face to face interview.


Behaviours, Technical Skills and Strengths will be tested at interview.


The Behaviours tested during the interview stage will be:

Delivering at Pace

(Lead behaviour)

Making effective decisions Communicating and Influencing Developing Self and Others

There will be a Technical Test at the start of your interview. This will be a 30 minute practical laboratory assessment.


You will also be asked Strength based questions during the interview.


Interviews dates are yet to be confirmed.


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

Location

This role is being offered as lab based at our Scientific Campus in Colindale, London.


If based at one of our scientific campuses, you will be required to have a Counter Terrorism Check security vetting check as a minimum. 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.


In exceptional circumstances 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.

Future location

UKHSA is investing in a new state-of-the-art National Biosecurity Centre in Harlow, Essex, which will eventually bring together teams currently based at Canary Wharf, Colindale and Porton Down. For more details, please see: Huge biosecurity centre investment to boost pandemic protection - GOV.UK.


The new facilities will start becoming operational in the mid-2030s, with full completion by 2038. Staff will move in phases as facilities become available. If you're appointed to a role currently based at Canary Wharf, Colindale or Porton Down, please note that we'll continue investing in these sites for the next decade. As we get closer to the transition, we'll provide full information about relocation support available to staff.

Salary

If you are successful at interview, and are moving from another government department, NHS, or Local Authority, the relevant starting salary principles for level transfers or promotions will apply. Otherwise, roles are offered at the pay scale minimum for the grade, but in exceptional circumstances there may be flexibility if you are able to demonstrate you are already in receipt of an existing, higher salary. Pay increases are through the relevant annual pay award for the role and terms.

Eligibility Criteria

Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including internal applicants).

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 Check.

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)

Artificial Intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Please see our candidate guidance for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.


Link below:


Artificial intelligence and recruitment , Civil Service Careers

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

---------------------------------


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

#

Job contact :

Name : Carmelita Goodwin Email : Carmelita.Goodwin@ukhsa.gov.uk
#

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