Job Description

Job Category: TechnicalDegree Level: HND/HNC:Directorate: School of Engineering & Physical SciencesGrade: Grade 5 (xc2xa326,338 - xc2xa330,805)Contract Type: Full Time (1FTE), Open EndedRewards and Benefits: 28 days annual leave, increasing to 33 days per year after 5 years service, plus 9 buildings closed days for all full time staff (Part time workers should pro rata this by their FTE). Use our total rewards calculator: https://www.hw.ac.uk/about/work/total-rewards-calculator.htm to see the value of benefits provided by Heriot-Watt University.Purpose of RoleA laboratory technician is required to assist in the setting up of teaching and research laboratories, the operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment, and the training of staff and students in the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences.The post holder supports work in the area of chemistry in teaching and research analytical laboratories. Although each technician in the School has a primary area for which they are responsible, they must also work as part of a team to support and cover duties across the School at busy times.Hours of WorkMonday - Friday, Nominally 9am to 5pm but some flexibility required from 8.30am to 5.30pm to cover class needs.Detailed DescriptionThe successful candidate will set up and maintain equipment, prepare materials, organise consumables and diagnose and rectify faults in teaching and research laboratories. In addition, the laboratory technician will provide technical supervision, guidance and training for all students (high school, UG, MSc), as well as assistance for postgraduate and postdoctoral researchers and other staff, and support 'Outreach' events. The post holder will assist the Technical Services Managers in dealing with safety, estates and maintenance issues across the School. A flexible approach to this work is essential.Candidates should have a minimum of an HNC (or equivalent) in chemistry, sciences or substantial work experience in a relevant role. Experience in a higher education teaching or research environment is desirable as is an aptitude for IT and a willingness to learn new techniques and processes. Experience of good laboratory practice is essential and use/maintenance of standard chemistry lab equipment desirable although appropriate training will be provided.Key Duties and ResponsibilitiesThe post holder will be responsible for achieving and maintaining high standards concerning laboratory practice. Although part of a laboratory based team, the role holder will be required to work largely on their own initiative, be expected to set their own day-to-day priorities and have a flexible approach. The role demands that undergraduate, postgraduates and academics needs are met, thereby ensuring the efficient carrying out of teaching and research of the highest quality.

• Setting out and preparing teaching class and research laboratory equipment and materials

• Basic testing, fault-finding, repair and maintenance of equipment.

• Preparing standard operating procedures for techniques and equipment.

• Technical supervision and assisting of students and staff in undergraduate classes and research laboratories.

• Assisting research with operation of analytical equipment and techniques.

• Provide basic maintenance and operational duties in support of the Solvent Purification and NMR facilities.

• Distribute PPE (personal protective equipment) and general laboratory attributes and provide locker storage facilities for staff and students.

• Ensuring good lab practices including health & safety.

• Pricing of equipment, materials, consumables, and procurement according to University procedures.

• Assisting the Technical Services Managers with resolving safety, estate and maintenance issues across the School.

Education, Qualifications and ExperienceEssential Criteria

• Minimum HNC/HND or equivalent in chemistry, sciences or substantial work experience in a similar role.

• Laboratory technician skills working in a teaching/research environment or similar industrial workplace.

• Experience of maintenance and fault-finding of equipment.

• Good understanding of health & safety regulations and procedures.

• Good planning, team, communication and organisational skills.

• A positive, can-do, attitude with a willingness to accept responsibility.

• Provide technical supervision, guidance and training to staff and students.

• A flexible approach and the ability to communicate at all levels.

• Able to work effectively as an individual and as a member of a team.

• Some manual handling will be involved requiring physical effort.

Desirable Criteria

• A Science degree.

• Experience of working in a practical role.

• Experience of use and specification of standard chemistry laboratory equipment e.g., Solvent Purification System, NMR, GC, HPLC and IR, UV-Vis and Fluorescence spectrometers.

• Experience of risk assessment, COSHH, Safe Systems of Work.

• Experience of working within a teaching and learning environment.

• Awareness of science outreach activities.

• An aptitude for IT.

• A willingness to learn new skills and processes.

• Training in manual handling techniques.

How to ApplyPlease submit via the Heriot-Watt on-line recruitment system (1) Cover letter describing their interest and suitability for the post; (2) Full CVApplications can be submitted until midnight on Monday 19th May 2025.Interviews to be held w/c 2nd June 2025.At Heriot Watt we are passionate about our values and look to them to connect our people globally and to help us collaborate and celebrate our success through working together. Our research programmes can deliver real world impact which is achieved through the diversity of our international community and the recognition of creative talent that connects our global team.Our flourishing community will give you the freedom to challenge and to bring your enterprising mind and to help our partners with solutions that can be applied now and in the future. Join us and Heriot Watt will provide you with a platform to thrive and work in a way that also helps you live your life in balance with well-being and inclusiveness at the heart of our global community.Heriot-Watt University is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected, trained, promoted, appraised and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities. Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all.Heriot-Watt University values diversity across our University community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups. For more information, please see our website and also our award-winning work in Disability Inclusive Science Careers .We welcome and will consider flexible working patterns e.g. part-time working and job share options.Use our total rewards calculator: to see the value of benefits provided by Heriot-Watt University.

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