Science Technician

Science Technician
Godalming

Charterhouse, a presitgious Independent School, is seeking a highly organised, methodical and enthusiastic Science Technician to provide outstanding technical and scientific support to its successful Science Department.

The role entails equipping laboratories prior to lessons, clearing labs and recycling glassware, maintaining stock of apparatus and reagents, and conducting safety checks on equipment. The ability to prepare a wide range of chemical solutions is essential, as are Science A Levels or equivalent. Previous work in a school laboratory is desirable but not essential.

A competitive salary is awarded, together with additional benefits including free parking and membership of the Charterhouse Sports Centre.

Overall Purpose of the Job

To support the delivery of science lessons in a well-resourced and efficient environment, with due regard to the health and safety of all pupils and other individuals who have contact with the area. The jobholder will support all three Science disciplines, with particular emphasis on the Biology Department.

All pupils study three sciences to IGCSE standard, and in the sixth form separate Science courses are offered at Pre-U/A level or IB. There are typically 50-60 pupils who commence courses in each science subject (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) in the sixth form every year.

Main Duties

To work as part of a team to manage all aspects of laboratory support, liaising with the teaching staff to deliver and develop high quality and safe programmes of study.

Duties will include the day-to-day provision of class practicals, implementation of related departmental projects and identification of improvement opportunities.

The technician will be expected to:

• Oversee the running of laboratories and project areas.
• Equip the appropriate laboratory with all the apparatus and materials for any practical work needed.
• Check that all apparatus is working correctly prior to use and that materials have been prepared correctly. Liaise with the teacher concerned at the earliest opportunity in the event of any difficulty.
• Set up laboratory apparatus as requested by the teacher for demonstration purposes and check that it functions properly.
• Carry out demonstrations when required.
• Provide and check apparatus for the duration of any project work. Advise pupils as to suitability and correct use of apparatus.
• Assist/advise staff about the suitability and availability of apparatus for practical work.
• Devise and make novel experiments and equipment resulting from developments generated by changes to the current curriculum.
• Check all the laboratories at least weekly for the standard laboratory apparatus.
• Tidy up wherever possible each laboratory after each practical, remove equipment and any materials that may be left over, and clean equipment as required.
• Lock up laboratories and stores and secure equipment when not in use.
• Maintain stock of apparatus / reagents in the stores and order replacements as appropriate.
• Inspect fire-fighting equipment weekly.
• Maintain stationery stocks in each laboratory and in the store, and order, as necessary.
• Maintain updated chemical list and liaise with the Lead technician for disposal of unwanted, hazardous or expired chemicals.
• Purchase supplies of perishable items for experiments as required. Safely dispose of materials following CLEAPSS guidelines.
• Identify equipment needs and participate in selection. Consult with and advise Head of Department on choice of new and replacement equipment.
• Issue requests to the Maintenance and Operations Department for any work needed in the Science Department.
• Photocopying, as necessary.
• Use IT equipment where appropriate, including scanning past exam papers and mark schemes.
• Set up displays for school open days.
• Keep up to date with safety regulations and advise members of the teaching staff as appropriate.
• Attend relevant study days and courses as appropriate.
• When trained, administer First Aid treatment of minor laboratory injuries, and ensure compliance in use of department accident reporting procedures.

Closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 22 November 2021.