Specialist Biomedical Scientist

Job summary

Applications are invited from enthusiastic and motivated HCPC Registered Biomedical Scientists to work within the UKAS accredited Blood Sciences Department at Withybush General Hospital, Haverfordwest. There is one permanent full time (37.5 hours per week) position and one permanent part time (22.5 hours per week) position in the Haematology section which includes Blood Transfusion. The successful candidate would be expected to participate in multi-disciplinary training progression and skill mix development within Blood Sciences.

The department operates a contractual shift pattern supporting Round the Clock Services, and out of hours working on the Haematology rota will be part of this role.

Whilst our preferred option is to appoint one full-time and one part-time member of staff, we welcome applications from candidates seeking alternative contracted hours and will consider these for the right individuals.

The post is advertised at Band 6. Applications are welcomed from all who demonstrate strong potential but may not yet meet all Band 6 competencies. Please see the job description and main responsibilities field below for further information on the annex 21 option

Main duties of the job

The refurbished and modernised laboratory provides acute and routine primary and secondary care services in Biochemistry, Haematology, Coagulation and Transfusion. The Haematology section is currently equipped with Siemens Advia 2120i analysers and ACLTOP 350 analysers. Blood Transfusion uses an Ortho Vision which is due to be replaced by the Ortho Swift in the very near future.

The individual should possess Specialist Diplomaor equivalent and sufficient post registration experience to undertake a specialist role within the Haematology Section.

The successful candidate will be expected to effectively communicate information, advice, instruction and professional opinion to colleagues and Pathology Service users in both primary and secondary care.

The ability to speak Welsh is desirable for this post; English and/or Welsh speakers are equally welcome to apply.

About us

Hywel Dda University Health Board plans and provides NHS healthcare services for people living in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, and bordering counties.

We have over 13,000 staff and together we provide primary, community, in-hospital, mental health and learning disabilities services.

We work in partnership with the three local authorities, as well as public, private and third sector colleagues, including our valued team of volunteers.

Our services are provided in:

o Four main hospitals: Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth; Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen; Prince Philip Hospital in Llanelli; and Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwesto Five community hospitals: Amman Valley and Llandovery hospitals in Carmarthenshire; Tregaron Hospital in Ceredigion; and Tenby and South Pembrokeshire hospitals in Pembrokeshireo Two integrated care centres: Aberaeron and Cardigan in Ceredigion, and several other community settingso 47 general practices (six of which are health board managed practices); dental practices (including four orthodontic); 99 community pharmacies; 43 general ophthalmic practices; and 8 ophthalmic domiciliary providerso Numerous mental health and learning disabilities services

Job responsibilities

Why not consider working in an area of outstanding beauty surrounded by the Pembrokeshire National Park with its stunning Coastal Path and Blue Flag beaches providing a range of opportunities for activity or leisure. With good transport links, quality schools and the option of town or rural housing, Pembrokeshire has much to offer.

You will be able to find a full job description and person specification attached within the supporting documents.

This post is advertised as a Band 6 and candidates for this role must have achieved the Specialist Diploma. However applicants who do not currently hold the qualification for the Band 6 role, are encouraged to apply and, if successful, will need to attain the qualification within 4 years and will be appointed under Annex 21 rules.

This means they will be supported be a development plan. During the first year payment will be 60% of the top rate of Band 6 pay, the second year 65%, third year 70% and fourth year 75%. Following successful passing of the Specialist Diploma the post holder will then be paid at Band 6 (minimum point on the scale). Support and supervision will be provided in order to develop the successful applicant to the Band 6 role.

As part of the Annex 21 process, there is no financial penalty to those who apply for this role where the percentage will cause a reduction in pay, subsequently a local protection would be put in place until the pay has caught up.

Failure to achieve the qualification and required competencies in the designated timeframe could result in re-deployment.

The Health Board is committed to supporting its staff to fully embrace the need for bilingualism thereby enhancing patient and service user experiences. In our commitment to increase the number of staff who are able to communicate in Welsh with patients and professionals, we welcome applications from Welsh speakers.

The ability to communicate in Welsh is desirable for this post. If you do not meet the Welsh Language requirements specified, the Health Board offers a variety of learning options and staff support to help you meet these minimal desirable requirements during the course of your employment with us.

Interviews will be held on 28/09/2026

Person specification

Qualifications & Knowledge

Essential

• Hons. degree in Biomedical Science/Life Science
• Specialist Diploma or equivalent
• HCPC Registration
• Evidence of CPD
• Knowledge of Pathology Quality Assurance

Experience

Essential

• Prior experience as a Registered Biomedical Scientist
• Indepth knowledge of complex laboratory instrumentation
• Technical ability to troubleshoot, repair, advise or provide in-depth information relevant to speciality

Language Skills

Desirable

• Welsh Speaker (level 1)