Specialist Biomedical Scientist – Microbiology (Annex 21): Sponsorship Available

Job summary

We are looking for a Band 6 Biomedical Scientist to join the award winning team at Dorset County Hospital. An enthusiasm and interest for all areas of Microbiology, including bacteriology, virology, serology, parasitology and mycology is required, as well as an understanding of the importance and value of the regulatory requirements.

Consideration will be given to Band 5 state registered Biomedical Scientists who wish to complete the Microbiology Specialist Portfolio under Annex 21 of Agenda for Change. Pay progresses as follows

• More than three years from completion of professional training and competencies = 60% of the pay band maximum for the qualified rate
• More than two but less than three years = 65% of the qualified rate
• More than one but less than two years = 70% of the qualified rate
• Up to 12 months prior to completion of all professional training and competencies = 75% of the qualified rate

At DCHFT, we pride ourselves on the care we provide for our patients, and on the culture, we are creating for our staff. We work hard to create a fair, inclusive environment for our staff.

Our Mission is to work in partnership to provide high quality, compassionate services and to nurture an environment where people can be at their best. Our vision is healthier lives, empowered citizens, thriving communities.

Main duties of the job

We are a Trust that celebrates diversity, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from people in all under-represented groups.

• To produce accurate and timely Microbiology results from clinical samples in accordance with the policies, protocols and quality standards.
• To ensure that clinically significant and urgent results are dealt with in a timely fashion.
• To be able to rotate around all areas of the laboratory, including serology.
• To provide specialist advice to clinicians about the appropriateness of tests and turnaround times.
• Update documentation (SOPs, bench guides, risk assessments) using specialist microbiology knowledge and expertise.
• To participate in the Microbiology out-of-hours service

The post holder will work with the other members of the department to maintain and develop a quality, timely and patient focused Microbiology service for the local population.

The Department follows a 7 day working roster which the post holder will be expected to support including the weekend, bank holiday and on-call rota.

This is an exciting time to join the Pathology team in Dorset. We are currently making great progress with our vision to create an integrated pathology service for Dorset and across Wessex.

Person Specification

Skills and Knowledge

Essential

• Knowledge of accreditation standards, for example UKAS.
• Good manual dexterity
• Understands, can perform and can teach others all aspects of routine Microbiology
• Ability to accurately follow and convey to others verbal and written instructions, including complex protocols and procedures.
• An understanding of quality requirements.
• An understanding of the importance of confidentiality.
• Able to work as part of team.

Desirable

• Ability to prioritise own workload, to delegate appropriately and manage time effectively.
• Appropriate IT skills.
• Knowledge and experience of audit
• Ability to recognise problems and to instigate corrective actions
• Participation in CPD
• Reliable, conscientious and punctual
• Enthusiastic about work and profession
• Self-motivated with a willingness to learn.
• Willingness to support the out of hours service
• Able to accept responsibility for own actions

Knowledge & Experience

Essential

• Demonstrate at least two years of recent post registration experience in an HCPC approved Microbiology laboratory.
• As in-depth knowledge and understanding of operating procedures and techniques to diagnostic Microbiology.
• Understands and can apply the principles of good laboratory management.

Desirable

• Demonstrate understanding of the Microbiology of disease and their processes.
• Awareness of accreditation requirements and quality management systems.

Education, Qualifications & Training

Essential

• IBMS accredited BSc in Biomedical Sciences or equivalent.
• IBMS Specialist Portfolio in Medical Microbiology, or equivalent experience
• Professional registration with HCPC
• Evidence of involvement in ongoing training and development relevant to the post.

Closing Date: 16 August 2026