Trainee Anatomical pathology Technician

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work as a Trainee Anatomical Pathology Technician. The role provides essential hands‑on support within the mortuary environment while undertaking structured in‑house training and completing the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) Level 3 Diploma over approximately two years. The position supports the delivery of a safe, respectful and high‑quality mortuary service for the Trust and HM Coroner, assisting with autopsy procedures, specimen handling, and cross‑departmental communication. It also supports specialist services such as paediatric, forensic and infectious cases as skills develop. University Hospital Southampton is one of England's largest acute teaching Trusts, offering a wide range of learning and development opportunities to support your career aspirations. Key Responsibilities Assist with the provision of post‑mortem services including preparation of the deceased, support during autopsy procedures and restoration following examination under supervision. Receive, register and safeguard the deceased and their personal effects, ensuring accurate documentation and compliance with legal and Trust standards. Support specialist services such as paediatric and perinatal mortuary work, CT post‑mortem imaging, forensic procedures and NHS Blood and Transplant tissue retrieval. Work collaboratively with clinical teams, the Medical Examiner’s Office, HM Coroner, Police, Radiology and Bereavement Care to ensure safe and efficient service delivery. Essential Criteria Previous NHS/public mortuary full‑time experience including mortuary administrative procedures, post‑mortem area working and deceased patient viewing preparation. Capability to complete the Royal Society for Public Health Level 3 Diploma within two years of appointment. Ability to concentrate in a busy and noisy environment. Good level of secondary education – minimum of 5 GCSE (or equivalent) C‑grade including Biology, Maths, English, Chemistry or other science‑based subjects. Committed to continuing professional development through examinations and courses. Knowledge of coronal systems/Medical Examiner system/Human Tissue Authority. Adapt efficiently to changing work patterns and situations. Clear, sensitive communication with a wide range of patients and external agencies, including those with language or emotional barriers. Understanding of confidentiality and responsibility for protecting confidential information. Ability to cope with seeing and hearing sensitive and distressing information within a bereavement setting. Demonstrable mortuary experience. Desirable Criteria Experience in end‑of‑life care, deceased viewing preparation, and administrative procedures. Knowledge of HTA and awareness of Q‑Pulse and Hospital Informatics (Charts / Eden / PACS). Funeral‑based Health & Hygiene training. Experience of death processes, procedures and administration. Understanding Bereavement pathways. Previous learning or training undertaken in Healthcare, Bereavement or related employment. Additional Information Participation in the mortuary on‑call rota once competency is achieved. A driving licence will be required. Flexibility to work extended hours when required. Compliance with health and safety standards and Trust mandatory training for handling infectious material. Successful clearance through relevant employment checks, including occupational health, safeguarding requirements (DBS). The role reports to senior anatomical pathology staff and involves regular multidisciplinary interaction. Seniority Level Internship Employment Type Full‑time Job Function Health Care Provider Industries Hospitals and Health Care Location Southampton, England, United Kingdom Note We are committed to providing a flexible working environment and championing diversity, inclusion and anti‑racism. All applicants from diverse backgrounds are welcome. #J-18808-Ljbffr