Medical Laboratory Assistant - Pathology Specimen Reception
Employment Type: Various
Position Classification: Technical Assistant Grade 2
Remuneration: $32.46 - $33.71 per hour plus superannuation
Hours Per Week: Various hours
Requisition ID: REQ649881
Location: Lismore Base Hospital
Applications Close: 12 April 2026 - 11:59pm
About the opportunity
NSW Health Pathology are seeking a permanent full time Technical Assistant, to work in Specimen Reception at Lismore Base Hospital Laboratory.
The specimen reception team are the heart of any pathology lab and by joining our dynamic team, you will be working in one of the largest regional laboratories in the state, servicing Lismore Base Hospital and the Northern Rivers Community.
Working closely with our pre-analytical team and laboratory staff, you will have will also have the opportunity to learn data entry and other key skills, to assist in the processing of specimens in preparation for the laboratory departments to complete their testing.
Lismore Base Hospital is a regional referral hospital providing a wide range of health services to residents in Northern NSW. These services include a state-of-the-art Operating Theatre Suite, Intensive Care/Cardiac Care Unit, General Medical and Surgical Wards, Women’s Care Unit, Paediatric Unit, Renal Unit and Emergency Department.
The region of Lismore and the Richmond Valley on the far North Coast of NSW offers something for everyone - from nature lovers to foodies. Lismore is only a short drive to Byron Bay, Lennox Head and Ballina to the east and the funky village of Nimbin to the west. The local area has everything from magnificent national parks, waterfalls and rainforest walks to some of the most beautiful beaches on the east coast of Australia. So, if you’re looking for a lifestyle, sea or tree change this could be the job for you.
What we can offer you
Financial Benefits - Rural Health Workforce Incentive Scheme allowance of up to $5,000 plus super per annum in addition to award entitlements.
Generous salary packaging options and other fringe benefits.
Work-life balance - Up to 12 additional days off per year in addition to Annual Leave (for full-time employees)
Professional growth - Learning and development opportunities, including in-house training with RTO My Health Learning
Health & wellbeing - Fitness Passport gym discounts and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for staff and families.
Cultural Support- Receive cultural mentoring and support in a safe, inclusive space to share experiences and thrive in a diverse workforce
What you'll be doing
Contribute to a high-quality pathology service. Perform pathology specimen reception duties including receiving and triaging of specimens, patient registration and request entry, specimen processing and preparation for transport or delivery to laboratories for timely accurate diagnostic testing.
Interested in joining Australia’s largest public pathology service? Apply now by addressing the following questions:
- Certificate III in Pathology Collections, or Pathology Assistance and/or previous experience a pathology setting or a demonstrated ability to learn all aspects of the pre analytical environment.
- Demonstrated ability to manage tasks in a demanding environment where there are competing priorities and time constraints.
- Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and customers, internal and external.
- Demonstrated problem solving and analytical skills combined with the ability to investigate and resolve general issues.
- Willingness to operate and maintain pre analytical equipment as required.
- Proficient computer skills including high attention to detail and data accuracy.
- Demonstrated understanding of confidentiality and proper handling of sensitive information in a laboratory setting, following relevant legislation, policies, and requirements.
- Willingness to participate in a 24/7 rotating shift roster, including weekends, public holidays, and night shifts, and the ability to travel to any site or location within the operational area as required.
Information For Applicants
NSW Health Pathology is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive workplace. We value, and welcome all suitably qualified applicants regardless of age, background, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity.
NSW Health Pathology is committed to providing accessibility and reasonable accommodations and ensuring our recruitment process is flexible, inclusive, and free from barriers, promoting equal opportunities for all to succeed. Please reach out if you need adjustments.
You must have valid working rights in Australia for the duration of the appointment to be eligible to apply.
All workers must meet NSW Health’s vaccination and screening requirements before starting employment. See PD2026_004 for more detail. The preferred candidate may be required to undergo a functional assessment prior to appointment.
An eligibility list may be created for similar vacancies in the future.
We encourage applicants to submit responses that reflect their own experiences and perspectives. Please note that applications that appear to be generated by AI tools or copied from external sources may not be considered.
Need more information?
1) Click here for the Position Description
2) Find out more about applying for this position
For role related queries or questions contact Christopher Nicol on Christopher.Nicol@health.nsw.gov.au
To learn more about NSWHP please visit “Life at NSW Health Pathology” or connect with us on LinkedIn!
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