Laboratory Technician

Roles and Responsibilities

• The preferred candidate would have the ability to assist teachers with lesson setup and preparation, as well as the ability to support students in lessons.
• The main focus of the role is to provide technical, practical, and administrative assistance and support to enable teachers to concentrate on the provision of a high standard of education.
• During lessons, the role involves supporting pupils, providing them with technical support during practical lessons, guiding them on health and safety, and ensuring the correct equipment is available.
• It is also expected that the successful candidate will support learning across multiple subjects and assist in DT lessons and the safe storage of tools and resources.
• To ensure safe working practices at all times and keep up to date regarding Health & Safety.
• Liaising with academic staff to discuss practical investigations and equipment requirements.
• Ensuring that laboratories are set up ready for practical lessons.
• To assist learning across the curriculum in Secondary Science.
• Trialing investigations prior to lessons and demonstrating techniques to teachers and students.
• Maintenance and repair of equipment and laboratory apparatus.
• Record keeping, e.g., stock levels and equipment maintenance.
• Ensuring that equipment is properly cleaned, and that chemicals and other materials are appropriately stored and disposed of.
• Supporting the work of teachers and providing technical advice to teachers and students.
• Working with individual students and supporting them on research projects.
• Managing the stock control of chemicals and equipment.
• Ensuring that all health and safety procedures are in place and adhered to.
• Coordinating work in the laboratory to ensure efficient use is made of equipment.

Candidate Profile

• Candidate with a science background and previous experience of working in an educational setting.
• Excellent written & verbal communication skills (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).
• Excellent ICT skills, proficient in MS Office.
• Must have meticulous attention to detail, especially with regard to health and safety policies and procedures.

Desired Candidate Profile

1. Technical Knowledge

• Understanding Scientific Equipment: Knowledge of the scientific equipment and tools used in various laboratory experiments, including microscopes, Bunsen burners, glassware, and more.
• Proficiency in Laboratory Procedures: Familiarity with standard laboratory procedures, including the preparation of chemicals, specimens, and tools required for experiments.
• Knowledge of Scientific Disciplines: Depending on the setting, understanding the basics of various scientific fields (biology, chemistry, physics, etc.) to effectively support experiments in these areas.

2. Safety Awareness and Hazard Management

• Health and Safety Standards: Deep understanding of safety protocols and the safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals, biological materials, and equipment.
• Risk Assessment: Conducting risk assessments for practical experiments to identify potential hazards and ensuring that proper safety measures are in place to protect students and staff.
• First Aid and Emergency Procedures: Knowledge of first aid procedures and how to respond to emergencies, such as chemical spills, fires, or injuries in the lab.
• Laboratory Environment Management: Ensuring the laboratory is a safe, well-organized environment, with all equipment properly stored and chemicals clearly labeled.

3. Organizational Skills

• Preparing for Experiments: Ensuring that all necessary materials, equipment, and chemicals are available and prepared for scheduled science experiments.
• Stock Management: Keeping accurate records of laboratory inventory, including chemicals, apparatus, and consumables, and ensuring that stock levels are maintained.
• Lab Setup and Cleanup: Setting up lab stations before experiments and cleaning up afterward, ensuring that all equipment is properly cleaned, maintained, and stored for future use.

4. Attention to Detail

• Precise Measurement and Preparation: Accurately measuring and preparing chemicals, solutions, and other materials for experiments, ensuring that they meet the required specifications.
• Documentation: Keeping precise records of materials, procedures, and experimental setups, as well as ensuring that all laboratory documentation is up to date.

5. Communication Skills

• Working with Teachers and Students: Collaborating with teachers to understand the requirements for practical lessons and experiments. Explaining complex scientific procedures and ensuring that students understand the equipment and safety rules.
• Instruction and Demonstration: Providing guidance to students on how to use lab equipment safely and effectively. This might include demonstrating equipment or processes as part of a class or practical activity.
• Reporting Issues: Communicating any issues with equipment, safety concerns, or supply shortages to the appropriate staff members in a timely manner.

6. Problem-Solving Skills

• Troubleshooting Equipment Issues: Ability to quickly diagnose and fix minor issues with laboratory equipment or materials. This could include repairing or maintaining apparatus or ordering replacements when necessary.
• Handling Emergencies: Reacting quickly and effectively to any emergencies that arise in the lab, such as accidents, spills, or equipment failure.