Veterinary Laboratory Assistant

We are excited to announce an opening for a Veterinary Laboratory Assistant to become a vital part of our dynamic Histology team.

Role Overview:

This position does not require prior laboratory experience, as comprehensive training will be provided.

Our histology department handles approximately 1,100 samples weekly from various species, creating slides for pathologist review. We receive samples from veterinary clinics throughout the UK, Ireland, Europe, and beyond.

Our Ideal Candidate:

We are seeking candidates who possess the following qualities:

• Scientific Aptitude: A keen interest in science and laboratory work
• IT Proficiency: Competence with computer systems
• Self-Motivation: Ability to work independently and take initiative
• Attention to Detail: Precision and accuracy in tasks
• Instruction Adherence: Capability to follow instructions and procedures
• Stress Management: Ability to perform under pressure
• Service Orientation: Commitment to delivering quality service to both internal and external clients
• Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication, both written and verbal
• Task Management: Consistency in performing routine tasks without error
• Teamwork: Ability to work independently while maintaining a positive attitude and being a team player
• Educational Background: GCSE grade C or above in English, Maths, and Science (or equivalent)

Key Responsibilities:

The role involves:

• Slide labelling & QC checks
• Unloading & unpacking of deliveries
• Maintaining tidy and organised archiving areas
• Printing cassettes for tissue trimming
• Archiving of wet tissue and paraffin blocks and disposal of those materials
• Cleaning/maintenance of equipment
• Staining and cover-slipping of slides by machine/hand
• Slide scanning
• Assisting with routine laboratory tasks

Position Details:

• Hours: Part-time (24 hours per week), including every Saturday
• Shift Pattern: Thursday, Friday & Saturday 8am-4:30pm (a different work pattern may be required for training period)
• Location: Primarily at our Weybread site, with potential travel to our Harleston site. A full driving license is required
• Salary: Will be in line with the NMW, with progression opportunities after probation period

What We Offer:

We know that benefits are key and that your personal benefits priorities will differ from others, so please see some of what we offer below:

• Generous annual leave entitlement of 5 weeks per year plus Bank Holidays (pro rata)
• Additional leave for long service
• Access to CVS Vets sharesave and pension schemes
• Discounts on veterinary products and treatments
• Employee Assistance Programme and access to over 400 Mental Health First-Aiders

Or, if easier, you can find a full list by clicking here: CVS | What We Offer

Join a team of enthusiastic professionals who enjoy coming to work each day and are driven to provide the best service to our clients.

CVS is committed to being a fully inclusive place to work where all our colleagues are encouraged and supported to be themselves, where difference is celebrated and where everyone feels able to deliver their best.

We are also determined to build a workforce that is more representative of our diverse communities and the people we provide our services to.

Unfortunately, we are unable to accept and progress applications from candidates without the Right to Work in the UK, as we cannot provide visa sponsorship, due to our clinical support roles not meeting the criteria set out by the Home Office to be eligible.

If you're ready to embark on a rewarding career path and meet the criteria listed, we encourage you to apply and become part of our dedicated team.