Associate Practitioner - Microbiology

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

The Associate Practitioner will support the Microbiology laboratory team by processing clinical specimens, performing routine diagnostic tests, preparing cultures, recording results and maintaining accurate laboratory documentation. The role requires relevant laboratory qualifications or equivalent experience, practical microbiology knowledge, attention to detail and a willingness to work within quality, infection-control and health-and-safety procedures. Candidates should demonstrate good communication, organisation and IT skills, work reliably as part of a multidisciplinary team, and be able to manage routine tasks while meeting turnaround times. Experience in an NHS or clinical laboratory is advantageous. The successful applicant will be expected to undertake training, maintain professional competence and contribute to a safe, efficient service for patients and clinicians.

About the employer

North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust provides hospital and community healthcare services across Cambridgeshire and surrounding areas, including Peterborough, Huntingdon and Hinchingbrooke. The Trust delivers emergency, medical, surgical, maternity, cancer, diagnostic and outpatient services to a large and diverse population. Its laboratories support patient diagnosis and treatment across the organisation, with microbiology playing an important role in identifying infections, guiding antimicrobial treatment and supporting public health. As an NHS Foundation Trust, it combines clinical care with education, research and service improvement. Employees typically benefit from NHS terms and conditions, occupational pension arrangements, annual leave, professional development and access to structured training. The Trust looks for people who demonstrate compassion, teamwork, integrity and a commitment to delivering safe, high-quality care.

Working in United Kingdom

The United Kingdom offers opportunities in healthcare, laboratory science, engineering, technology, education and skilled trades, with strong demand in NHS and private-sector services. Its culture is diverse and generally values professionalism, personal privacy, punctuality and inclusive workplaces. Lifestyle varies from busy cities to quieter coastal and rural communities, with extensive public transport, historic towns, national parks and cultural events. International applicants normally need a job offer from an approved sponsor and the appropriate visa, such as the Skilled Worker route; laboratory roles must meet current eligibility and salary rules. Check official UK government guidance before applying, as requirements can change. Relocation costs, housing deposits, transport and healthcare-related registration should be planned in advance. The UK has four constituent countries and is an island nation, although Northern Ireland shares a land border with Ireland.