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- Tasks: Join a team ensuring cleanliness and safety in research labs through sterilisation and waste disposal.
- Company: Be part of the University of Glasgow, a leading institution in higher education and research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days of leave, flexible working, and a supportive culture focused on your wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in scientific research while developing valuable skills in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: No specific experience required; just a willingness to learn and a positive attitude.
- Other info: Applications from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to promote equality and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 24000 £ per year.
The MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research (CVR) within the School of Infection and Immunity are seeking to appoint a Washroom Assistant. The purpose of the job is to support the infrastructure of the CVR by being part of a small team supplying a sterilisation and wash-up service for research laboratories within the CVR, principally the Sir Michael Stoker Building and the Henry Wellcome Building.
Main Duties And Responsibilities
- To be a member of the washroom team providing a sterilisation, biological waste disposal and wash-up service, reporting to the CVR Technical Services Manager.
- Collect glassware, plasticware and other laboratory materials on a daily basis for handwashing, machine washing and sterilising as required; ensuring effective quality control is carried out.
- Check and replace nitrogen cylinders as required, receiving delivered cylinders and reporting stock levels to the CVR Technical Services Manager.
- Provide support to researchers and the Electron Microscopy facility by dispensing liquid nitrogen into transport vessels.
- Carry out monthly checks of the personal oxygen depletion monitor located in the cryo freezer park.
- Collect pipettes and waste within autoclave bins and sterilise via autoclaving.
- Wash cages, pans, plastics for the insectary.
- Clean troughs, tubs, and bins for the Containment Level 3 suite during periods of maintenance.
- Load, unload and operate washing machines, autoclaves, and sterilising ovens.
- Prepare disinfectant on a weekly basis for sterilisation of various materials (pipettes, glassware, etc).
- Ensure all waste is disposed of safely and appropriately as set out in the CVR Waste Management Policy.
- Liaise with the Waste Contractor during uplift of waste and monitor the disposal of waste.
- Ensure safe disposal of broken glassware.
- Replenish stock in laboratories and arrange uplift/replacement of autoclave bins.
- Ensure appropriate containers are filled with dry ice.
- Monitor consumable stock levels and equipment faults, reporting to the Technical Services Manager.
- Carry out general housekeeping within the freezer parks.
- Undertake any relevant training as required.
This is not an exhaustive list but highlights a number of the key tasks, which the post holder may be reasonably expected to perform. This post requires a degree of manual handling that includes regular lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, moving or carrying a load.
Qualifications/Knowledge
Essential:
- A1. Scottish Credit and Qualification framework level 4 in English and Mathematics (National 4) or equivalent qualification and experience in a similar role. OR the ability to demonstrate the competencies required to undertake the duties associated with this level of post having acquired the necessary knowledge and skills in a similar role.
- A2. Knowledge of glass washing procedures.
- A3. Knowledge of Health and Safety procedures, including the hazards associated with cleaning and disinfection of chemicals.
Desirable
- B1. Knowledge of the safe operation of autoclaves.
- B2. Knowledge in the safe handling of liquid nitrogen and the changing of gas cylinders.
Skills
Essential:
- C1. Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and contractors.
- C2. Flexible and enthusiastic approach to work.
- C3. Capable of working independently and also as part of a team.
- C4. Self-motivated and able to manage time efficiently.
- C5. Good organisational skills.
- C6. Ability to use initiative and good judgement to solve problems.
- C7. Ability to handle tasks of a repetitive nature.
- C8. Ability to follow instructions.
- C9. Manual handling awareness.
- C10. Willing to participate in training to acquire additional skills.
Experience
Essential:
- E1. Ability to demonstrate the competencies required, to undertake the duties associated with this level of post, through appropriate relevant experience in a similar role.
- E2. Experience in housekeeping duties, preferably in a laboratory setting.
- E3. Experience in preparing and handling chemicals for cleaning and disinfectant.
Additional Details
Informal enquiries about this post may be directed to Elizabeth McMonagle, (Elizabeth.McMonagle@glasgow.ac.uk).
Terms and Conditions
Salary will be Grade 3, £23,028 - £23,881 per annum. This post is full time (35 hours per week, Monday to Friday 07:00 - 15:00 hours), and open ended with funding available up until 31 March 2027 in the first instance.
As part of Team UofG you will be a member of a world changing, inclusive community, which values ambition, excellence, integrity and curiosity. As a valued member of our team, you can expect:
- A warm welcoming and engaging organisational culture, where your talents are developed and nurtured, and success is celebrated and shared.
- An excellent employment package with generous terms and conditions including 41 days of leave for full time staff, pension, benefits and discount packages.
- A flexible approach to working.
- A commitment to support your health and wellbeing.
We believe that we can only reach our full potential through the talents of all. Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our values. Applications are particularly welcome from across our communities and in particular people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under-represented within the University.
We endorse the principles of Athena Swan and hold bronze, silver and gold awards across the University. We are investing in our organisation, and we will invest in you too.
Closing date: 23:45 on Monday 16th June 2025.
Washroom AssistantNew employer: University of Glasgow
Contact Detail:
University of Glasgow Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Washroom AssistantNew
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties of a Washroom Assistant, especially those related to sterilisation and waste disposal. Understanding these tasks will help you demonstrate your knowledge during any informal discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees at the University of Glasgow, particularly in the CVR. They can provide valuable insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be beneficial when discussing your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Prepare examples from your past experiences that highlight your flexibility and enthusiasm, as these traits are essential for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your knowledge of health and safety procedures, especially regarding cleaning and disinfecting chemicals. This is crucial for the role, and demonstrating your awareness can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Washroom AssistantNew
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Job Requirements: Carefully read the job description for the Washroom Assistant role. Make sure you understand the essential and desirable criteria, as you'll need to demonstrate how you meet each one in your application.
Tailor Your Application: When writing your application, specifically address how your skills and experiences align with the duties and responsibilities listed in the job description. Use examples from your past roles to illustrate your capabilities.
Use the CVR Template Form: Ensure you use the CVR's template form for your application. This is crucial as it helps the hiring team assess your qualifications against their criteria effectively.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, take the time to proofread your application. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Glasgow
✨Know Your Responsibilities
Familiarise yourself with the main duties of a Washroom Assistant, such as sterilisation and waste disposal. Be ready to discuss how your previous experience aligns with these tasks.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Make sure to mention any past roles that involved housekeeping or laboratory work. Specific examples of handling chemicals or operating autoclaves will show you have the necessary skills.
✨Demonstrate Health and Safety Knowledge
Since this role involves handling potentially hazardous materials, be prepared to talk about your understanding of health and safety procedures. This could include discussing your experience with cleaning chemicals and waste management.
✨Show Team Spirit
The job requires working as part of a small team, so emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've worked well with others in previous positions.
