Job overview

The Chemistry Laboratory Technician will work closely with the Chemistry Department setting up experiments and practical work. The post reports to the Head of Chemistry.

Main Responsibilities:

Keeping accurate records of departmental expenditure

Organising all books and periodicals (including pupil textbooks)

Carrying out and recording regular health and safety checks (taking account of all relevant policy and guidance) on all laboratories, prep rooms, stores, and equipment and organising repairs/maintenance as required

Completing weekly, monthly and termly lab checks as agreed with the Head of Chemistry

Completing annual stock take of all equipment in the department at the end of the academic year

Submitting orders for consumable goods, e.g., batteries and replacement goods, to the school finance office

Completing simple repairs on lab equipment and sending away for repair equipment where the repair is not simple

Assisting or covering technician requirements in the other science departments if needed and as directed by the Senior Laboratory Technician

Assisting in the photocopying of scheduled tests and exams

Coordinating the set up for Open Days

Key Attributes:

A self-motivated team player

Organised with a methodical approach to work and attention to detail

Calm and effective under pressure

Hands on approach

Skills & Qualifications:

A high standard of written and verbal communication

Previous experience of working in a school is desirable though not essential

GCSE English and Mathematics

Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

Key Responsibilities:

Being aware of recommendations made by CLEAPSS, checking for updates and passing these recommendations on to the Head of Chemistry in reviewing risk assessments for practical work

Being aware of the location of the Health and Safety procedures practised and documented by the department and regularly discuss these with teachers in the department

Carrying out risk assessments for technician activities

Preparation of experiments as booked with agreed advance notice by teachers, discussing to clarify where necessary. This includes both demonstrations to be set up working in advance of the lesson and kit supplied and laid out for collection for student practicals. This also includes kit supplied to support co-curricular clubs and Outreach Activities

Collecting, checking and returning equipment to stores

Taking care of laboratory equipment and apparatus

Carrying out, and where appropriate arranging for, maintenance, servicing and repair of resources and equipment

Working with teachers to keep labs tidy and keep prep room tiday as a working space for all in the department where possible

Working with teachers to trial new practicals and give recommendations on hazards and risk

Being available to help out in demonstrations and class practicals where required and arranged in advance

Constructing and modifying apparatus

Making up solutions as required

Organising and safely storing chemicals, biological materials and equipment

Ensuring safe disposal of waste materials

Stocktaking chemicals and equipment, maintaining accurate records for each department

Actively managing stock levels and placing orders for new stock as required

Checking deliveries and invoices to ensure value for money

For any questions and to apply, please contact Vicky Goodwin at human.resources@caterhamschool.co.uk