Science Technician

The Science Technician will work under the supervision of the Senior Science Technician and the Head of Science. The role involves preparing materials for Key Stage 3, 4, and Post 16/A Level Science classes, maintaining laboratories, performing small repairs, stock taking, administration, word processing, and using spreadsheets. Training in Health & Safety regulations will be provided as needed.

Responsibilities

• Preparation of materials and equipment safely and in compliance with relevant legislation for lessons at Key Stages Three and Four of the National Curriculum and for post-16 courses at A level and BTec.
• Clearing away equipment at the end of lessons; checking, cleaning and maintenance of apparatus, including minor repairs.
• Clearing up and maintenance of designated laboratories, reporting any items in need of repair.
• Maintaining designated preparation areas to provide a clean, orderly working environment; storing equipment appropriately with correct labelling and indexing.
• Carrying out systematic safety checks in designated laboratories.
• Dealing with breakages of apparatus and chemical spillages in compliance with the regulations within the CLEAPSS Laboratory Handbook and associated publications.
• Monitoring stocks of consumable equipment, chemicals and stationery, and informing the Senior Technician of any items in short supply that need to be ordered.
• Reproducing worksheets and other teaching materials as required using the photocopier, including collating, stapling or filing materials.
• Carrying out word processing of documents, using spreadsheets and assisting with setting up computers and data-logging equipment for lessons.
• Occasionally purchasing small items locally that may be required in lessons.
• Assisting with the preparation of practical examination materials.
• Attending INSET (In-Service Training) courses as recommended by staff, for example in matters of Health & Safety.
• Undergoing a regular Professional Review in line with the school policy.
• Assisting in the event of an accident by providing appropriate remedial action and reporting all incidents to the Senior Technician.
• Familiarity with the departmental safety policy and an understanding of COSHH risk assessments.
• Contributing to the general ethos of safety awareness within the department and keeping up to date with safety procedures.
• Occasional assistance with in-class demonstrations.
• Contributing to the continued excellent behaviour of students.
• With suitable training, acting as a first aider within the science department and occasionally covering the student welfare office.
• Working occasional evenings as required such as Prospective Parents Evenings, and the Science Showcase.

General

This job description allocates duties and responsibilities but does not direct the particular amount of time spent on carrying them out and no part of it may be so construed. It is not necessarily a comprehensive definition of the post and may, from time to time, be subject to modification or amendment in consultation with the holder of the post and other relevant parties.

Person Specification

Qualifications

• 5 GCSEs at grade C/5 or above (or equivalent BTEC) including English and Maths.
• A level or further study in science.

Experience

• A science background.
• Lab experience in an educational setting or with young adults.

Abilities, Skills and Knowledge

• Knowledge and understanding of safeguarding / child protection procedures and policies.
• Ability to prioritise, work efficiently and accurately, particularly under pressure, to deadlines and using own initiative.
• Ability to maintain positive relationships with students, staff, parents and members of the community.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Personal

• A passionate belief in the school’s mission statement.
• Strong team working skills.
• Highest levels of professional and personal integrity.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Personal resilience, persistence and perseverance.
• Commitment to support GHS’s agenda for safeguarding and equality and diversity.
• Sympathetic to and supportive of the ethos of the school.