Health Care Support Worker – Microbiology Full Time NEW

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is one of the largest healthcare systems in the United Kingdom, employing approximately 40,000 staff across a wide range of clinical and non-clinical professions and roles. We deliver acute hospital, primary, community and mental health services to a population of over 1.15 million people, and to a wider population of 2.2 million when regional and national services are included.The RoleBand 2 roles are not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker or Health and Care Worker visa routes.All other roles will be assessed for sponsorship eligibility in line with current Home Office requirements. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) can only issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) where these are met.The laboratory processes around 400,000 specimens per annum and in addition to routine microbiology sections, also provides a paediatric Microbiology service to the Royal Hospital for Children and Cystic Fibrosis Microbiology service for CF adults and children. The laboratory holds UKAS accreditation for ISO 15189 standards as a single managed unit together with the Microbiology laboratory at Glasgow Royal Infirmary. As a Health Care Support Worker within Microbiology, you will play a vital part in delivering a high-quality, safe and effective diagnostic service across NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde. Working alongside Biomedical Scientists and wider laboratory teams, you will support the processing and preparation of clinical specimens that directly inform patient care. This is a hands-on, fast-paced role ideal for someone who takes pride in accuracy, teamwork and maintaining high professional standards. You will be supported by strong leadership, robust training and opportunities to develop your skills within a large and respected NHS organisationNHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde offers a collaborative working culture, job security and the chance to make a meaningful difference to the health of our communities.Duration, Location, and Working Pattern: Microbiology Laboratory at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital36 hours over 7 days of the weekDays, evenings, weekends and public holidays Key ResponsibilitiesPrepare, process and register clinical specimens accurately for laboratory testingSupport Biomedical Scientists with routine laboratory procedures and basic testingOperate laboratory equipment safely including centrifuges, analysers and autoclavesMaintain accurate records using laboratory IT systems and manual documentationCommunicate effectively with clinical staff, patients and external services as requiredEnsure compliance with infection control, health and safety and quality management proceduresAssist with training, mentoring and supporting less experienced staffKnowledge, training, qualifications and/or experience required to do the job: Three Highers at grade C or above including Biology or Chemistry and Maths, or an equivalent science qualification such as SVQ Level 3Completion of a relevant modern apprenticeship or equivalent accredited learningA good understanding of biomedical science principles and laboratory practicesAwareness of infection control, health and safety and quality standards within a clinical environmentStrong keyboard skills with a high level of accuracy and attention to detailAbility to work effectively as part of a team in a busy laboratory settingWillingness to participate in ongoing training, development and shift working arrangementsWhat We OfferWe offer a wide range of supportive policies designed to enhance your employee journey, including a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme, Cycle to Work Scheme, bursary scheme and extensive learning and development opportunities.As an NHS Scotland employee, you will be entitled to:A minimum of 27 days annual leave, increasing with length of service, plus public holidaysMembership of the NHS Pension Scheme, including life insurance benefitsSalary Sacrifice Car Benefit Scheme Development opportunities including study bursaries, e-learning and classroom-based coursesEnhanced pay for working public holidaysNHS discounts on a wide range of goods and servicesConfidential employee support and assistance, including counselling and psychological therapiesInterested?If you would like to find out more, we would love to hear from you.For An Informal Discussion, Please ContactOperational Manager, Sylvia Rennie, sylvia.rennie3@nhs.scot, 0141 354 9152Details on how to contact the Recruitment Service and the Recruitment Process:This post may close early due to the volume of response. Please submit your application form as soon as possible.AI tools like ChatGPT or Copilot can be great for planning and preparing your application, but your answers must be your own.Show us the real you: Your application should reflect your skills, experience, and motivations authentically.Use AI wisely: It’s fine to use AI for ideas or to check spelling and grammar, but don’t let it write your answers.Why this matters: Applications that rely on AI-generated content may be withdrawn. By applying, you confirm your responses are based on your own knowledge and achievements.Tip: Think of AI as a helper, not a substitute. We want to understand you, not an AI tool.NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) recognises the importance of work-life balance and is committed to offering a range of flexible working options where service needs allow. For roles where less than full-time hours can be accommodated, and where the tenure is listed as “various”, we encourage applications from individuals seeking flexible working arrangements. Flexible working will be included as a topic for discussion during the recruitment process.NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde encourages applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion and are proud of the diverse workforce we employ.By signing the Armed Forces Covenant, NHSGGC has pledged its commitment to being a Forces Friendly Employer. We welcome applications from across the Armed Forces Community and recognise military skills, experience and qualifications throughout the recruitment and selection process.For application portal or log-in issues, please contact the in the first instance.