Job Description

25,448 rising to 26,942

Full Time, Permanent - Professional Ser

Oxford Brookes University is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our Biological and Medical Sciences' technical team as a Level 3 Science Technician Apprentice. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a university laboratory while working towards a nationally recognised qualification.

The role

This role will support the day-to-day running of the laboratories, ensuring they are clean, safe, and well-equipped for teaching and research activities. You will be involved in tasks such as sterilising equipment, managing waste, maintaining stock levels, and preparing materials for student practicals, while developing technical skills through hands-on experience and formal training.
Working closely with experienced technicians and academic staff, the apprentice will gain insight into scientific operations while completing a Level 3 Laboratory Technician apprenticeship. The role provides an excellent opportunity to build foundational knowledge in laboratory practice, with dedicated time for off-the-job learning and support from a workplace mentor.

About the team

The Apprentice Laboratory Technician will join the technical services team within the Faculty of Health, Science and Technology, which supports the delivery of high-quality teaching and research across a range of scientific disciplines. The team is responsible for maintaining safe and functional laboratory environments, preparing and supporting practical sessions, managing specialist equipment, and ensuring compliance with health and safety protocols.

Working collaboratively with academic staff, professional services, estates teams, and external suppliers, the technical team plays a key role in supporting an excellent student experience and enabling impactful research activity. The faculty is committed to continuous development, sustainability, and the advancement of technical skills.

What will I be doing?

Supporting the smooth daily running of university laboratories

Cleaning and sterilising laboratory equipment to analytical standards

Assisting with the setup and clear-down of student practicals

Managing laboratory waste, including autoclaving and safe disposal

Monitoring and maintaining stock levels and placing routine orders

Supporting the care of cell stocks and invertebrate cultures

Learning and applying health and safety procedures, including COSHH

Completing a Level 3 Laboratory Technician apprenticeship alongside on-the-job training

What skills do I need?

Essential skills

Level 3 qualification (e.g. A Levels, BTEC Level 3 or equivalent) in a relevant subject or equivalent work experience is essential.

Previous experience in a laboratory and knowledge of laboratory equipment is essential.

Communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills as per the job description criteria.

Knowledge and experience using laboratory equipment such as a microscope

Ability to move laboratory equipment.

Computer IT literate, in microsoft office or equivalent


Please see the job description for all essential and desirable skills.

Oxford Brookes

Oxford Brookes University is distinctive in nature. We are a modern and forward thinking institution rooted in, and connected to a city with a rich history of culture and learning. We
are a globally recognised University focused on providing high-quality teaching, delivering impactful research and an excellent student experience. Our vision is simple: "shape tomorrow through our unique blend of the modern and the traditional, by embracing diversity, seeking out the new and excelling in education and research."

Our people are at the heart of the University - our excellence in teaching, research and knowledge exchange depends on the engagement, capability and wellbeing of our people. We strive to create and encourage an environment where people have the opportunity to develop, progress and thrive.

In acknowledgment of our commitment to gender equality and progression, we proudly hold the Athena SWAN Bronze award, a testament to our unwavering dedication to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all. Join us at Oxford Brookes University, where every step forward is a leap toward a brighter tomorrow.

About the location

This role is based at our vibrant Headington Campus, within the university's specialist laboratory facilities. The campus is one mile from the centre of Oxford and is served by regular public transport. As this is a practical, hands-on role supporting teaching and research activities, the postholder will be expected to work on campus full time. You'll be part of a friendly and collaborative technical team, gaining valuable experience in a live laboratory environment while developing your skills through a structured apprenticeship programme.

Benefits

As an Oxford Brookes employee, you will enjoy a total of a minimum of 25 days holiday, rising with your service, plus 8 Bank Holidays and additional University concessionary Days (approx 5 per year).

We have an extremely competitive Local Government pension scheme with a 19.2% Employer contribution rate, as well as providing all staff with financial education, a comprehensive employee assistance helpline.

We prioritise the well-being of our employees--both physically and mentally, as well as financially. That's why we provide a diverse and comprehensive benefits package to support our team

In addition, all employees have access to:

Discounted rates for the University sports & gym facilities

Brookes on-site Nursery.

Discounted travel options

TOTUM card discount scheme

Relocation scheme (for moves over 30 miles)

Training and development opportunities

Connected community - Brookes have a wide variety of staff networks which instil a sense of community offering employees a space for support, guidance and friendship making it a vibrant and inclusive place to work.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

At Oxford Brookes, inclusivity is one of our five guiding principles: we take positive steps to create an environment in which we celebrate, value and provide equal opportunity to all. We are committed to recruiting from the widest possible pool and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates who embrace our values, regardless of their background.

As a Disability Confident Employer we guarantee to interview any disabled applicant who meets the essential selection criteria.
Please note that this role will not

Please note -

The role of Apprentice Laboratory Technician will not attract sufficient points to obtain a sponsored Skilled Worker visa.

To email the role of Apprentice Laboratory Assistant please copy and paste the link below:




https://my.corehr.com/pls/oburecruit/erq_jobspec_details_form.jobspec?p_id=181185

Closing Date :

20-Jul-2025

Vacancy ID :

181185

Faculty or Directorate :

Health, Science and Technology

Location :

Gipsy Lane Site, Headington Campus

For more information :

pdteam-operations@brookes.acuk

Posted on :

03-Jul-2025