Science Technician

This is an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic individual to be part of a highly successful faculty and join a happy and collaborative team in an exceptional school environment. 

The Science faculty consists of 21 laboratories with 29 full-time and 4 part-time members of teaching staff and 5 full-time technicians and a team leader. We are seeking to expand the technician team to 6 full-time technicians and a team leader.

This position involves working alongside the existing Science technicians providing laboratory support for the teaching of IGCSE, International Baccalaureate (IB) and A Level science subjects.  

Teamwork is an essential part of the role and while the successful candidate will likely be based in one department, over time they will be expected to move to others to gain further skills and help provide a flexible service. Please note that full training will be provided.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Following safety procedures within the relevant guidance and keeping up to date e.g., through CLEAPSS advice
• Preparing, setting out and clearing away apparatus and chemicals
• Preparing experiments and demonstrations
• Washing up glassware and cleaning apparatus
• Assembling, making, and repairing equipment
• Servicing the laboratories and other practical areas in the departments, maintaining class sets of equipment kept in each laboratory
• Stock keeping and advising team leader of impending shortfalls.
• Preparing the requirements of individual coursework projects
• Helping and advising staff with their apparatus needs
• Checking inventories and maintaining records
• Caring for animals and plants
• Keeping the laboratories, workshop and storage areas clean, tidy and well organised is also a key element of the role
• Liaising with other members of the technician team and reporting to the team leader, to keep services running smoothly and helping the other technicians, as appropriate, with their workload
• Taking part in the current appraisal or equivalent arrangements
• Attending appropriate training courses
• Other appropriate tasks as requested by the team leader technician

Where time permits, the job may also include:

• Assisting team leader in the preparation of online resources, e.g. technician worksheets and updating inventories
• Supporting teaching staff with practical activities in agreement with the team leader
• Collaborate with teaching staff to trial experiments and new equipment

The ideal candidate will:

• Have excellent communication skills and be a team player.
• Possess strong organisational skills, the ability to plan ahead, anticipate problems and manage time efficiently.
• Be adaptable in a fast-paced environment.

We would welcome applicants with expertise in Biology, Chemistry or Physics. Some experience of microbiology or the ability to carry out equipment maintenance and repair would be desirable, but this is not a specific requirement. Since the technician team provides a flexible service, a willingness to learn new techniques across the three sciences in the fullness of time is essential. 

In return, we offer excellent health benefits, a contributory pension scheme, gym membership and lunch during term-time.

If you are interested in this job opportunity, please visit our website to find out more and apply.

Closing date: 9am on Tuesday 7th May 2024 

Interview dates: w/c 6th and/or 13th May 2024

Early applications are welcome – the interview process may be staged, and we may choose to appoint prior to the closing date.

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. King’s College School is fully committed to the principles of equality, diversity and inclusivity in its recruitment of teaching and support staff.