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- Tasks: Join our Technical Team to create and repair scientific glassware while supporting education and research.
- Company: Be part of Queen's University, a leader in promoting equality and diversity in education.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, generous holiday entitlement, and a supportive work-life balance.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in glassblowing while collaborating with a diverse team in a vibrant academic environment.
- Qualifications: Five GCSEs at Grade C or above, plus two years of glassblowing experience required.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and a commitment to staff wellbeing.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Technical Team within the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. You will support education and research by providing expert glassblowing services, maintaining workshop equipment, and assisting in the design and fabrication of custom glassware for the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. You will be required to fabricate, modify and repair scientific glassware using Boro-Silicate and Quartz glass and to maintain workshop equipment and manage stock levels. You will also be required to provide relevant scientific glassware advice to staff and students and to assist in applying relevant Health and Safety regulations for anyone using these areas. Overall you will be part of an extensive technical team across the School and will work alongside other technicians in other areas, building up a diverse knowledge of the technical support needed to successfully support staff and students through their education and research work.
About the person:
- You must have Academic and/or vocational qualifications i.e. five GCSEs at Grade C or above (or equivalent) to include a science subject or NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) in a relevant subject.
- Minimum of two years recent experience in scientific glassblowing, to include:
- Manufacture and repair of laboratory glassware.
- Experience in bench work, hand burner and lathe work.
- Cutting and grinding.
- Manufacturing experience using Boro-Silicate and Quartz.
- Maintenance of gas supply including cylinders and regulators.
To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information.
What we offer:
Beyond a competitive salary, the University offers an attractive benefits package including a holiday entitlement of up to 8.4 weeks a year, pension schemes and development opportunities. We support staff wellbeing with flexible working options, work-life balance initiatives and support for physical and mental health.
Queen's University is committed to promoting equality of opportunity to all. We subscribe to Equality Charter Marks such as the Diversity Charter Mark NI and Athena Swan and have established staff networks such as iRise (Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and International Staff Network) and PRISM (LGBTQ+) which help us progress equality. For further information on our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, please visit our website.
If you are an international applicant and don't already hold a visa that permits you to take up the role you are applying for, please use the information provided on our website to self-assess whether the University is likely to be able to support a visa application.
Glassblowing Technician employer: Queens University
Contact Detail:
Queens University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Glassblowing Technician
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific types of glass you'll be working with, such as Boro-Silicate and Quartz. Understanding their properties and how they behave during the glassblowing process will give you an edge in interviews and practical assessments.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former technicians in the field. They can provide insights into the role and the team dynamics at the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, which can help you tailor your approach when discussing your experience and skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your knowledge of Health and Safety regulations related to glassblowing and laboratory work. Being able to discuss these regulations confidently will demonstrate your commitment to safety and professionalism during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your technical drawing skills. Bring examples of your previous work or create a portfolio that highlights your ability to design and fabricate custom glassware, as this is a key aspect of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Glassblowing Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to clearly outline your two years of recent experience in scientific glassblowing. Include specific examples of the types of glassware you have manufactured and repaired, as well as any relevant techniques you've mastered.
Demonstrate Technical Skills: In your application, emphasise your ability to create accurate technical drawings and your experience with bench work, hand burner, and lathe work. This will show that you possess the necessary skills for the role.
Showcase Health & Safety Knowledge: Since the role requires adherence to Health and Safety regulations, include any relevant training or certifications you have. Mention your understanding of safety procedures in a laboratory environment.
Tailor Your Application: Ensure your application is tailored to the job description. Address each essential and desirable criterion listed in the Candidate Information, providing clear evidence of how you meet them. This will help you stand out during the shortlisting process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Queens University
✨Showcase Your Glassblowing Skills
Be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience with glassblowing, particularly with Boro-Silicate and Quartz glass. Highlight specific projects or repairs you've completed, as this will demonstrate your technical expertise and problem-solving abilities.
✨Understand Health and Safety Regulations
Familiarise yourself with relevant health and safety regulations related to glassblowing and laboratory work. Be ready to explain how you ensure a safe working environment and how you would advise others on these matters.
✨Prepare Technical Drawings
Since the role involves creating accurate technical drawings, bring examples of your previous work or be ready to discuss your process for developing these drawings. This will show your attention to detail and ability to translate concepts into practical applications.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Communication Skills
The position requires collaboration with other technicians and staff. Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked in a team setting, and be ready to discuss how you communicate complex information to colleagues and students.
