Teaching Laboratory Technician

The Teaching Laboratory Technician will be primarily based in the teaching laboratories, providing essential technical support for the preparation and running of taught courses in materials science. Working as part of a collaborative team of technical support, the role includes involvement in a range of teaching-related activities, including case studies, long processing labs, and final year projects.

Responsibilities:

• Experience of working as part of a team in a science laboratory, materials laboratory, mechanical workshop, electronic laboratory, or electronic workshop is essential, ideally in a higher education environment or in a school environment.
• Carry out the repair and modification of existing experimental equipment, laboratory apparatus, and electrical/electronic instruments. This may include electrical furnaces, vacuum systems, electronic measuring devices, hydraulically operated materials processing equipment, and 3D printers.
• Carry out the manufacture of specialised samples for examination and testing using workshop machines and special specimen preparation equipment.
• Carry out the relocation of departmental facilities and services.
• Facilitate the highest possible standards of teaching within the lab in liaison with all group leaders.
• Create a productive teaching environment for everyone in the laboratory, and to take into account their needs in terms of experimental work or lab-related issues.
• Identify and solve technical problems to the laboratory facilities, and to make sure all equipment contained in the lab is operating with the highest efficiency.

Minimum Requirements:

• A Bachelor Degree (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific subject, such as materials science or mechanical engineering.
• Or Educated to a minimum of HNC level or equivalent in a relevant field plus significant work experience in a relevant technical/scientific role.
• Or An equivalent vocational qualification or relevant laboratory-based/teaching apprenticeship.
• Experience of designing and manufacturing of apparatus for research projects and laboratory experiments.
• The successful candidate must be familiar with or be willing to learn (with appropriate training) to use and maintain complex technical equipment.
• The ability to handle chemicals and powders safely is essential.
• An understanding of Health and Safety Legislation and codes of practice for high temperature and mechanical laboratories is desirable.
• A pro-active approach to health and safety is essential. Previous experience of health and safety organisation or administration is desirable. Ability to take on responsibility for a laboratory from a health and safety perspective.
• Computer skills for record keeping, emails, word-processing, and spreadsheets are essential.
• Previous experience or knowledge of Hydraulic Machines, Vacuum Systems, High Temperature Furnaces and Temperature Control, Mechanical Testing, Microscopy or Metallographic Techniques would be a desirable advantage.
• Experience of manual handling and forklift truck operation (desirable – training will be given).

This is an exciting opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution. By joining us, you will become part of an academic community focused on finding solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.

Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 38 days off a year). We provide a wide-ranging benefits package that includes resources, tools, and networks to promote a positive working environment. Pensions – excellent employer contributions. Childcare facilities – Early Years Education Centre. Childcare vouchers – salary sacrifice scheme.