Job Description

Supported by funding from the Argyll & Bute No One Left Behind initiative

Department:

Education/Technical Support

Hours of work:

30 hours per week (Monday to Friday, we can be flexible on work pattern)

Rate of pay:

12.60 per hour

Work location:

SAMS site, Dunbeg, near Oban

Duration:

26 weeks

Closing date:

Wednesday 18th June 2025

Eligibility for this scheme includes:

Have the right to live and work in the UK*

Are aged between 16 and 66 years*

Are at risk of becoming long-term unemployed (12 months or more) and/or are experiencing a physical or mental health condition or illness lasting or expected to last 12 months.*

Purpose:

You will work in the education team predominantly supporting undergraduate student laboratory practical classes. You will learn from the education lab manager how to set up for a range of marine science student practical classes (at both undergraduate and postgraduate taught level). You will learn many laboratory procedures and assist teaching staff in delivering them. As part of this, you will learn how to comply with health & safety procedures. During busy education event such as graduation, you may assist the education team.
This placement will provide an opportunity to work in a scientific/education laboratory environment and learn about marine science laboratory techniques, to upskill, refresh skills, or provide a work experience opportunity to decide If you would like a career connected to science/laboratories/education.

Tasks will include:

Assist in student lab preparation, basic testing and experiments Prepare chemicals (with assistance and training) Learn and follow methodologies and protocols in carrying out student practicals Assist with student practical procedures Equipment Management Setting up, using and maintaining lab equipment Washing laboratory glassware and consumables Assist with ensuring cleanliness and organisation of the lab Support education team during busy events
There may be other tasks as part of the placement that you would be interested in learning about within our educational programmes, scientific research and commercial projects. Please tell us how we can tailor this to suit any career choices you are considering.

Our Ideal Candidate

This opportunity may be suitable for someone:

Who has completed education (high school/university graduate) and is interested in science or looking to get back into work and upskill Is interested in a career in science/lab environment Works well in a team Has attention to detail Is able to follow instructions and procedures Has computer literacy
Learn more about what we do at SAMS: https://www.sams.ac.uk/

Interested?

We would love to hear from you. If you have queries or would like a short introduction on our placement opportunity, before applying, please contact us at hr@sams.ac.uk

The application process is listed below:

Applications must include a full CV and short cover letter. Your CV should include any previous employment (including tasks and dates of employment), education and relevant skills. Your cover letter should briefly outline your interest in our placement, skills and experience and how this would benefit you. Please send applications electronically to quoting Job Ref. 'D04/25.AD' in the subject heading.

Closing date

- for applications is

Wednesday 18th June 2025

Interviews

- will be held shortly thereafter

Start date

- the successful candidate must be able to begin the work placement within the first week of August 2025 (this is to align with a few weeks work experience and familiarity prior to our students starting their new academic year early September).

For full details, and guidance on how to apply, please visit https://www.sams.ac.uk/vacancies/education-laboratory-support-assistant---work-placement-d0425ad/

Please note: We are unfortunately not able to provide visa sponsorship for this position. All applicants must already be able to work in the UK and provide required documentation to support this as work placements will start soon after interview.

SAMS' commitment to gender equality has been recognised, as our institute was presented with an Athena SWAN (Scientific Women's Academic Network) Bronze Award and is currently working towards Investors in Diversity accreditation.

SAMS follows Fair Work Practices.

SAMS is a Real Living Wage Employer.

SAMS Group is committed to being an equal and open organisation. Diversity and inclusion are important to us, and we strive to remove any barriers that may prevent people from applying to join us. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, and from all who share our values and can help us to broaden our knowledge and range of ideas.

Job Types: Part-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 26 weeks

Pay: 12.60 per hour

Expected hours: 30 per week

Benefits:

Canteen Casual dress Company pension Free parking On-site parking
Schedule:

Monday to Friday No weekends
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 18/06/2025
Reference ID: D04/25.AD