Senior Science Technician (Part-Time)

Good practical scientific knowledge and an understanding of safe laboratory working practices. Knowledge of the safe handling, storage and disposal of chemicals and scientific materials. Understanding of the importance of risk assessment and appropriate control measures. Understanding of the importance of maintaining accurate stock and inventory records. Awareness of health and safety responsibilities within a laboratory or practical working environment. Understanding of confidentiality and data protection. Understanding of safeguarding and child protection responsibilities when working in a school. Knowledge of CLEAPSS guidance and its application within school science. Knowledge of COSHH requirements and relevant health and safety legislation. Understanding of the practical requirements of the secondary science curriculum and examinations. Knowledge of appropriate procedures for preparing solutions, cultures, slides, specimens and other practical science materials.

EXPERIENCE

Experience of practical science, laboratory or technical work, or demonstrable experience that provides equivalent relevant skills.

Experience of safely handling

equipment, materials and/or chemicals. Experience of organising resources, maintaining accurate records and managing stock.

Experience of working effectively as

part of a team. Previous experience as a Science Technician or Senior Science Technician in a secondary school.

Experience of supporting practical

work across Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Experience of supervising, coordinating or supporting the work of other staff.

Experience of ordering equipment and

consumables and contributing to budget management.

Experience of maintaining and carrying

out minor repairs to scientific equipment.

Experience of preparing practical

materials for public examinations.

SKILLS/ABILITIES

Excellent organisational skills with the ability to plan, prioritise and manage workload effectively. Ability to prepare scientific apparatus, equipment, chemicals and materials accurately and safely. Ability to follow technical instructions, procedures and risk assessments. Ability to identify hazards and take appropriate action to minimise risk. Ability to maintain equipment and undertake appropriate minor repairs. Ability to maintain accurate inventories, stock-control systems and other records. Good ICT skills and the ability to use technology for record keeping, communication and administrative tasks. Good written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently using initiative while recognising when advice or authorisation is required. Ability to work collaboratively and develop positive working relationships with teaching and support staff. Ability to supervise, organise and support the work and development of technician staff. Ability to remain organised and respond appropriately when priorities change.

QUALIFICATIONS

A good standard of general education, including literacy and numeracy. Relevant scientific knowledge sufficient to support practical work across a secondary school Science Department. Willingness to undertake relevant training and continuing professional development. Willingness to undertake required safeguarding, health and safety and school training. A relevant science, laboratory or technical qualification. Relevant health and safety, laboratory or technician training. CLEAPSS-related training or equivalent school science safety training. First-aid qualification or willingness to undertake training.

APTITUDES

A careful, methodical and safety-conscious approach to work. Reliable, punctual and well organised. Proactive and able to use initiative. Approachable, supportive and able to work positively with others. A commitment to maintaining high professional standards. Good attention to detail. Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise appropriate professional judgement. Willingness to contribute flexibly to the wider work of the Science Department and school. Commitment to equality of opportunity and treating others with dignity and respect. Commitment to the school’s ethos, aims and values. Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Willingness to participate in appraisal, training and continuing professional development.

LEADERSHIP AND SUPERVISION

Ability to plan and coordinate the deployment of technician support according to departmental priorities. Ability to provide clear direction, support and guidance to technician staff. Ability to identify and support training and development needs. Ability to work constructively with the Head of Science and teaching staff to ensure an effective technical service. Ability to model high standards of professionalism, safety and working practice.

ADDITIONAL

Willingness and ability to carry out the practical requirements of the role safely. Willingness to work in accordance with all school policies and procedures, particularly those relating to safeguarding, child protection, health and safety, equality, confidentiality and data protection. Suitability to work with children and young people, subject to the school’s required safeguarding and pre-employment checks.