Senior Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA)

Unilabs is one of Europe’s leading diagnostic providers, offering a wide range of laboratory, imaging, and pathology services. With a strong commitment to innovation and quality, Unilabs plays a vital role in supporting clinical decision-making and improving patient outcomes.

We are currently seeking a Senior Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) to join our Specimen Reception team in London. This role is essential in supporting the delivery of a high-quality, efficient pathology service, ensuring that samples are processed accurately and in line with strict regulatory and quality standards.

Working under indirect supervision, you will support laboratory operations, oversee specimen reception activities, and contribute to maintaining excellent service standards. You will also play a key role in supporting and mentoring junior team members, ensuring best practices are consistently applied.

Responsibilities:

• Support the day-to-day operations of the Specimen Reception team, ensuring efficient workflow and service delivery
• Act as a first point of contact for specimen discrepancies and resolve issues in a timely manner
• Receive, check, and process patient samples accurately in line with standard operating procedures
• Input and manage sensitive patient data within laboratory systems, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality
• Prepare, package, and dispatch samples to relevant laboratories
• Maintain stock levels of reagents and consumables, ensuring proper storage and rotation
• Prepare reagents and handle biological materials and chemicals safely in accordance with protocols
• Perform routine equipment maintenance and ensure accurate record keeping
• Archive samples, tissue specimens, and slides in line with departmental procedures
• Ensure compliance with quality management systems, including participation in audits and quality control processes
• Support turnaround time (TAT) targets and maintain high standards of accuracy and efficiency
• Assist in training, mentoring, and supervising Medical Laboratory Assistants
• Deputise for the Specimen Reception Lead where required
• Contribute to team leadership activities, including workload allocation and rota planning
• Participate in continuous professional development and training programmes
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised working environment in line with Health & Safety standards

Qualifications & Education

• 5 GCSEs (Grade C/4 or above) including Maths, English, and Science (or equivalent)
• 2 A Levels or equivalent (Science A Level desirable)

Experience

• Experience working in a laboratory or healthcare environment
• Understanding of health and safety practices within a laboratory setting
• Experience working in a busy, fast-paced environment
• Experience working as part of a team
• Experience supporting or managing a small team (desirable)
• Familiarity with laboratory processes, sample handling, and quality standards (desirable)
• Experience in stock management (desirable)

Skills & Competencies

• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage workload effectively
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures and protocols
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Reliable, flexible, and self-motivated
• Ability to concentrate for extended periods
• Willingness to work with biological materials

Other Requirements

• Commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality and data protection standards
• Ability to comply with quality, safety, and regulatory requirements
• Willingness to work weekends as part of a rota
• Ability to perform light physical tasks as required

Contract: Fixed Term (12 months)

Hours: 37.5 hours per week (including 1 in 4 weekends)