Trainee Anatomical Pathology Technologist (APT)
The closing date is 27 July 2026
We are looking for a motivated individual to join our Mortuary team as a Trainee Anatomical Pathology Technologist (APT). The successful post holder will be required to support the existing team of APTs, undertake a range of duties and contribute to the efficient and effective running of the mortuary service.
You must be capable of effectively and sensitively communicating with bereaved relatives and will be routinely required to deal with a range of extremely sensitive issues, e.g. explaining post‑mortem procedures, religious issues etc.
Commitment to completing Level 3 Diploma in Anatomical Pathology Technology is expected whilst working in the Mortuary.
Main duties of the job
Duties will be wide ranging and varied, including dealing with the receipt and preparation of deceased patients, assisting with post‑mortems and viewings, responding to enquiries, and general mortuary and administrative duties. Duties will be carried out following established Standard Operating Procedures.
Additional duties will be undertaken as directed by the Head of Department in consultation with the post holder.
Job responsibilities
To facilitate the receipt and release of deceased patients in the mortuary. Ensuring all documentation is completed accurately and in accordance with department SOPs and HTA standards.
To liaise with and update Bereavement Office on a daily basis regarding inpatient deaths and viewings.
To support the Anatomical Pathology Technicians, medical and non‑medical staff, Coroners Officers and other relevant individuals in conducting viewings of the deceased, attending to bereaved relatives, and conducting post‑mortems.
To undertake general administration duties across the department, to provide accurate data entry using the laboratory information management system.
Responding to general enquiries and telephone calls, where no interpretation of results is required. To communicate with all grades of staff, work as both an individual and part of a team.
To plan and organise day‑to‑day tasks to ensure accurate and timely discharge of duties.
To ensure safe handling of hazardous and infective materials according to defined protocols.
General cleaning and housekeeping.
Maintain an appropriate up‑to‑date knowledge base and attend relevant meetings.
Contribute to, and maintain, high professional standards of the service. To ensure compliance with regards to mandatory standards, Departmental, Directorate, Trust and Statutory policies and procedures, professional and personal development, and professional codes of conduct, according to service needs.
Person Specification
Qualifications
- GCSEs in Sciences, Maths and English (Grades A‑C / 4‑9 or equivalent)
Experience
- Experience / sensitivity in cultural needs and dealing with bereaved relatives
- Good level of IT knowledge and understanding and experience of Microsoft Office
- Experience of team working
- Experience of working in a mortuary or laboratory environment.
- Knowledge of human anatomy & physiology and HTA codes of practice
- Experience of working within Coroner, Funeral Director or Police services
Skills
- Good oral and written communication skills, telephone technique, client / customer liaison.
- Must complete in‑house training and study for a Level 3 Diploma whilst working.
- Meticulous attention to detail
- Ability to work under pressure
- Able to follow instructions without deviation.
Personal Attributes
- Show respect and clarity when communicating work matters to colleagues.
- Physically fit – able to lift, carry and manoeuvre sometimes heavy loads.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer name
Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Please note this role will not be eligible for sponsorship as it doesn’t meet the minimum salary requirements for a skilled worker visa, therefore you must have appropriate right to work in the UK or your application will not be progressed to the next stage of Recruitment.
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