Job Description

In this role you will provide technical support to the teachers in charge of Science classes by: assisting with the preparation of materials and apparatus for practical work; helping to maintain the science laboratories and preparation rooms in your department; maintaining their equipment and services in good order. You will also perform general duties in support of the teachers and the pupils in the Science department.

The Chemistry Laboratory Technician will have responsibilities as follows:

Line Management:

The Chemistry Laboratory Technician will be responsible to the Head of Chemistry

Mission and Identity:

Actively promote the College's mission and identity as set out in the Stonyhurst mission statement.

Purpose of the Role:

To undertake duties in support of the work of the teaching staff in the Science department at Stonyhurst College. You would be allocated to one science discipline in the main, but you would require a flexible approach in order to support any of the Science disciplines, as and when necessary.

Key Tasks & Responsibilities:

The preparation of materials and equipment for science lessons; Helping to maintain the science laboratories and preparation rooms and their equipment and services in good order (including assisting with keeping display material up to date and relevant; General duties in support of teachers and the science related curriculum; To work on a daily basis with the KS3, KS4 and KS5 teaching teams regarding technical requirements and curriculum support materials for Science related concepts.
Preparation of science materials and equipment would include, for example:

Being aware of Health & Safety requirements and promoting awareness of Health & Safety in the department; Keeping up to date with new CLEAPSS guidance; Carrying out Risk Assessments for own activities and assisting with other Risk Assessments in the department; Organising chemicals, preparation and storage under COSHH regulations; Checking the condition of equipment and repairing/replacing as appropriate; Trialling practical activities; Treating wastes - in accordance with Health & Safety and recycling requirements; Preparing experiments, setting up apparatus, equipment and other resources for demonstrations and practical lessons as requested by teaching staff; Liaising with staff over use of equipment and stock; Maximising the effectiveness of Budget expenditure; Checking and ordering stock and maintaining good stock records; Requesting prompt authorisation by Academic Director for the ordering of materials via Amazon/local supplier; Keeping a petty cash account for purchase of sundry fresh items with authorisation from Academic Director; Assisting with collection and cataloguing of sundry books, audio-visual aids and materials; Cleaning and returning apparatus etc. to storage as soon as practicable; Repairing damage or arranging for this to be done; Liaising with maintenance staff (electrics/plumbing); Supporting Higher line students when they miss practical's so they stay up to date; Supporting IB pupils with IA and EE practical requirements;
Elements specific to Chemistry would include, for example:

Collecting apparatus and chemicals from storage; Preparation of chemicals and solutions; Returning chemicals to storage as soon as practicable; Co ordinating equipment servicing e.g. fume cupboards; Maintaining chemical stocks and ensuring safe storage of chemicals; Liaising with SMH science technician to support the chemistry provision at SMH (e.g. preparing stock solutions); Working to make the department more economically and environmentally sustainable by developing microscale experiments
Whilst the role will predominately be supporting Chemistry, support may also be required across Biology & Physics

Elements specific to Biology would include, for example:

Caring for plants Ordering, receiving and maintaining algal, bacterial and fungal cultures Preparing a safe environment before and after microbiology practicals Preparing sterile materials for microbiology work Cleaning and servicing microscopes Assisting in field courses Checking condition of chemical and biological reagents/specimens Shop for perishable consumables, including potatoes, onions, brine shrimp, pond weed etc.) within working hours to meet needs of practicals.
Elements specific to Physics would include, for example:

Acting as the designated Radiation Protection Supervisor Returning Radiation Sources to safe as soon as practicable Coordinating the science departments' outreach work with Prep/primary schools Arranging for servicing of Steam Engine. Servicing or arranging servicing of electrical equipment such as Power Packs, Electron Diffraction Tube, EHT supplies.

Person Specification:

Relevant qualification, preferably at level 3 or above, including GCSE grade C in both English and Mathematics. Ability to prepare equipment and materials for practical activities for all the classes in the Science Curriculum Area, including the experiments for the A level and GCSE chemistry practical units and IB Diploma program investigative assessment. Ability to maintain a range of tools and equipment, ensuring all equipment and materials are stored safely and securely or disposed of whilst always maintaining a high level of health and safety. Ability to work in an organised and methodical manner and maintain accurate work records and inventories. Ability to offer professional guidance and assistance to students and teachers on the practical aspects of the curriculum. Good computer skills, although training can be provided. Good interpersonal and communication skills, in writing and orally. Experience of organising and prioritising a varied workload, working independently and planning. Experience of working with learners within an educational setting, particularly in a multicultural environment. An understanding of young people and a desire to help them achieve their best and develop/promote self-esteem where appropriate. Evidence of commitment and contribution to the implementation of equal opportunities policies. Be willing to participate in the continuing development of the activities of the department Applicants would benefit from relevant previous experience and familiarity with the handling of scientific equipment and materials. A willingness to develop an understanding of laboratory safety is essential and a science background or qualifications would be desirable.
The salary for this post is 26,000 per annum.

This role is Term Time only plus Inset days as required

, working approximately 42 hours per week but may be flexible according to the needs of the department

Stonyhurst is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We recruit in line with Safer Recruitment in Education guidance. All candidates must therefore complete an official application form. Once you have submitted your CV you will be sent an application form to complete before your candidacy can be considered.

The successful candidate will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 26,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Cycle to work scheme Discounted or free food Free parking Gym membership On-site gym On-site parking
Work Location: In person