Associate Practitioner

Go back County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust

The closing date is 19 October 2026

We are seeking applications from dedicated and enthusiastic Associate Practitioners to join our microbiology team. The role is based at the University Hospital of North Durham. We provide high quality, patient-focused diagnostic and screening services to healthcare providers across County Durham& Darlington.

This role requires a good laboratory skills and a knowledge of microbiology as the post holder will be expected to rotate through different areas of the department including bacteriology, serology, mycology and molecular diagnostics.

To be responsible for preparing and performing a wide range of laboratory pre-analytical and analytical testsusing microbiological laboratory techniques & equipment on a variety ofsamples that contribute to the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of infectious diseases in accordance with standard operating procedures and agreed policies.

To perform clerical and logistics duties to support the operation of the department.

To develop, maintain and demonstrate competency in all sections of the microbiology department including bacteriology, serology, mycology and molecular diagnostics.

To work with the laboratory team and quality management system to contribute towards a high quality service and continuous service improvement.

If you are being interviewed you must accept an interview slot in the system to continue, even if you have arranged with the manager.

You must be able to produce ALL certificates stated essential in the person specification or you will not be able to complete pre-employment checks.

We provide hospital services from two acute sites - Darlington Memorial Hospital and University Hospital of North Durham. We have a centre for planned care in Bishop Auckland and provide care from community hospitals in Chester-le-Street, Shotley Bridge, Barnard Castle, Sedgefield and Weardale as well as over 80 other community based settings and providing care in patients' homes.

We particularly welcome applications from disabled and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates as BAME and disabled people are currently under-represented.

Full Job Description s can be found in the adverts supporting documents.

Over reliance onAI-generated content is discouraged and may diminish the applicant's chances ofsuccess.

The post holder will have attained the IBMS Certificate of Achievement Part 2, NVQ3 or Foundation degreein a healthcare science. Alternatively, demonstration of equivalent experience and competency at this level may be considered. This role requires a good levelof laboratory skills and a keen interest in microbiology

Associate Practitioners working in our department must be able to use their knowledge and analytical skills to work alongside Biomedical Scientists to deliver high quality results. Previous experience in a diagnostic microbiology laboratory is desirable.

The department is UKAS(ISO
15189) accredited and a knowledge & experience of good quality management systems is desirable.

The successful candidate should also be able to demonstrate an ability to work within a team to delivera high quality service. Good communication and interpersonal skills are essential.

The ability to work on a 24/7 shift rota which includes day shifts, late shifts,night shifts, weekends & bank holidays is a requirement of the post.

• Experience in a diagnostic laboratory
• Experience in diagnostics microbiology or virology in an NHS or UKHSA laboratory. Supervisory experience. Employment with public interaction.

• Ability to work flexibly and participate in 24/7 working rota pattern.

• Ability to follow protocols and instructions accurately. Manual dexterity. Good communication skills. Follow protocols and instructions accurately. Computer literacy. Knowledge of scientific / medical terminology
• Problem solving and trouble-shooting skills. Knowledge of quality management systems. Ability to organise and prioritise own workload.

• NVQ3 in Health (pathology stream) or Foundation degree in Healthcare Practice or equivalent. Certificate of Achievement Part 2 or demonstration of equivalent competency. Science and / or Maths GCSE
• Evidence of ongoing CPD

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be…