Laboratory Technician (0.8 neg)

government schools; Greater Bendigo; On-site; AUD 62,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

Bendigo Senior Secondary College (BSSC) in Bendigo, Victoria, is seeking a Laboratory Technician to provide specialist technical and operational support to the Science Learning Area, enabling safe, engaging practical learning experiences.

You will prepare and maintain laboratory equipment, chemicals and resources, assist teachers with experiments, and ensure safe handling, storage and disposal of hazardous materials in line with OHS procedures.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated capacity to perform duties consistent with established guidelines and frameworks.
• Knowledge of Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Substances regulations.
• Demonstrated capacity to communicate effectively in a team environment.
• Qualifications in Science (certificate level required; degree preferred).

Responsibilities

• Prepare, organise and distribute equipment, chemicals, specimens and other materials required for Science practical classes, demonstrations and investigations.
• Prepare chemical solutions and laboratory materials using established procedures and appropriate safety controls.
• Consult with Science teachers to anticipate practical learning requirements and coordinate the efficient allocation and use of laboratory resources.
• Assist teachers with the setup, operation and pack‑up of laboratory equipment, demonstrations and practical activities, including microscopes, data‑logging equipment and associated ICT.
• Trial practical activities, conduct routine laboratory tests and assist with experimental procedures, as appropriate and under teacher supervision.

Skills

Lab safety

Chemicals handling

Equipment setup

Team communication

Education

Science qualifications (certificate level required; degree level preferred)

Job description

Occupation: Education and training

Location: Loddon Mallee - Greater Bendigo

Reference: 1552191

Location Profile

Bendigo Senior Secondary College (BSSC) is a Year 11 and 12 school located in one of Victoria's strongest and fastest growing regional areas. With an enrolment of approx. 1900 students, we are the largest provider of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM) and Vocational Education and Training (VET) delivered in schools in the state.

Our ROLE at BSSC is to empower learners for individual, community and global leadership, underpinned by the values of Respect, Optimism, Learning and Engagement. We are proud of the significant role we play supporting young people from the Greater Bendigo community to access high quality education programs, tailored to meet the individual needs and pathway goals of every student.

BSSC is located within the Rosalind Park precinct in the centre of Bendigo and has enjoyed an unrivalled picturesque location on this site for more than a century. The entire college site is on the Victorian Heritage Register. Staff, students and the broader community value the history of the college, and the contribution it has made to the city and to state education.

An online portal is available which allows parents to monitor attendance, work completion and achievement in real time and provides for the approval of absences. Teachers upload key assessment outcomes and comments in a progressive reporting model.

A strength of our college is the expertise and commitment of our dedicated staff. Teachers at BSSC play a leading role in state wide curriculum development, subject associations, VCAA assessment processes and in the professional learning of teachers across the state. All staff are expected to demonstrate the highest professional standards and a commitment to excellence. The college has a culture of self-reflection and continuous improvement which is supported by a rigorous performance and development process, allowing recognition of outstanding work and identification of areas for further improvement.

A wide range of VCE studies is offered and students can select units in Business and Information Technology, English, Health & Physical Education, Languages & EAL, Humanities, Mathematics, Performing Arts & Media, Science, Technology and Visual Arts. An accelerated learning program operates in conjunction with Bendigo¿s four government 7-10 colleges where students are able to undertake some VCE studies whilst in Year 10 and are then encouraged to undertake a Unit 3/4 study in their first year at the college.

Students have access to the VCE¿s Vocational Major offering and the Victorian Pathways Certificate and also to Head Start school based apprenticeships and traineeships.

Student programs are tailored to meet the learning, wellbeing and pathway goals of each student. Programs can include combinations of studies at Unit 1/2 and 3/4 level, completing the VCE over three years or negotiating a program to meet individual student health, school-based apprenticeship or elite sport training commitments. We have a close relationship with the four government Year 7-10 colleges in Bendigo and work together around orientation activities and pathways advice to support students in making informed program choices and a positive transition to our college.

The college is a Registered Training Organisation with many Vocational Education and Training (VET) programs on its scope of registration. Strong relationships with other training providers in Bendigo and our Trade Training Centre provide our students with access to excellent vocational training facilities and opportunities.

As a senior secondary education provider, we specialise in assisting students to make a positive transition to the next stage of their lives, whether that is to University or other study, apprenticeships or traineeships or directly on to employment. Extensive careers and pathways advice is available to students and is complemented by the individual support each student receives from their Advisor who closely monitors their wellbeing and progress. Additional support to assist students to stay engaged with their learning is provided through our Wellbeing Team. Students can access support from our Student Wellbeing Team and other visiting department staff.

NETschool is a second campus of the college, providing curriculum access for 15 to 18 year old students who have been outside mainstream schooling or training. NETschool provides access to VCE, VCE VM and VET subjects from its central city location.

The college provides outstanding facilities to support student learning in a combination of historic and modern facilities. These include the Ulumbarra Performing Arts Centre which incorporates a 1000 seat theatre, café and foods/hospitality facilities. Other recent modernised or new building projects include the Student Services Centre, Library, Multimedia Centre, refurbishment of the historic Maths building and an outdoor recreation area. Other purpose-built facilities include our Language Centre and Trade Training Centre. Each of these areas contain casual student study spaces, kitchenettes and high-level access to ICT.

One of the features of the college for many years has been the presence of students from other countries who come to study as fee paying students or through exchange programs. International students are supported in homestay arrangements with local families who provide cultural and language enrichment experiences. We are proud of the work we do to support New Arrival and refugee students, including through our intensive EAL program.

The college highly values the presence and contribution of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student population. These students are assisted by a range of additional support services which are closely linked to families and Community.

The international focus of the college is wide ranging and includes sister school relationships in China, France, Germany and Indonesia. When travel conditions allow, students can participate in curriculum and intercultural learning exchanges to these countries, and also to Italy and Greece. College curriculum has also developed a focus on the building of student global perspectives.

The college runs a very successful Confucius Classroom program in partnership with a Chinese agency and a Chinese sister school. This program attracts high quality Chinese teachers to Bendigo who deliver Chinese language and culture programs into over twenty Bendigo primary and secondary schools, and evening classes for the broader Bendigo community. This program is supporting young people from around the region to access an additional language and build their intercultural competence.

At BSSC we believe that every child is capable of achieving and has a right to a high-quality education which will empower them with the attitude, knowledge and skills necessary for success in life and work beyond school.

SC1 Demonstrated capacity to perform duties consistent with established guidelines and frameworks, including knowledge of Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Substances regulations, risk assessments and chemical Material Safety Data Sheets.

SC2 Demonstrated knowledge of the technical support required in school science laboratories.

SC3 Demonstrated capacity to communicate effectively in a team environment, including high level oral and written communication skills.

SC4 Possess the technical knowledge and expertise relevant to the position, with suitable qualifications in Science (certificate level required, degree level preferred).

SC5 Demonstrated capacity to provide advice and support to management and other school staff in respect to the work area.

SC6 A commitment to professional learning and growth for both self and others.

Role

The Laboratory Technician provides specialist technical and operational support to the Science Learning Area, enabling teachers to deliver safe, engaging and effective practical learning experiences. The role is responsible for preparing and maintaining laboratory equipment, chemicals, specimens and resources, and supporting the efficient operation of science laboratories.

The role contributes to a safe learning and working environment through the appropriate handling, storage and disposal of hazardous materials, maintenance of laboratory safety records, and implementation of relevant occupational health and safety (OHS) procedures. Working collaboratively with Science staff, the Laboratory Technician provides technical advice and practical assistance to support curriculum delivery and laboratory activities.

Reporting to the Teaching & Learning Coordinator Science, the role supports the effective management of Science resources, equipment and consumables, and contributes to continuous improvement in laboratory practices and procedures.

Responsibilities

Laboratory preparation and technical support

• Prepare, organise and distribute equipment, chemicals, specimens and other materials required for Science practical classes, demonstrations and investigations.
• Prepare chemical solutions and laboratory materials using established procedures and appropriate safety controls.
• Consult with Science teachers to anticipate practical learning requirements and coordinate the efficient allocation and use of laboratory resources.
• Assist teachers with the setup, operation and pack‑up of laboratory equipment, demonstrations and practical activities, including microscopes, data‑logging equipment and associated ICT.
• Trial practical activities, conduct routine laboratory tests and assist with experimental procedures, as appropriate and under the direction of Science teaching staff.
• Provide technical advice and practical assistance to teachers and, under teacher supervision, support students in the safe and appropriate use of laboratory equipment and materials.

Laboratory safety and compliance

• Implement established laboratory safety procedures and contribute to the identification, assessment and management of hazards associated with Science practical activities.
• Assist Science teachers with the preparation and review of risk assessments, including identifying hazards and recommending appropriate control measures.
• Maintain safe systems for the handling, labelling, storage and disposal of chemicals, biological materials and other hazardous substances in accordance with relevant legislation, Department of Education policy and college procedures.
• Maintain the college Chemical Register and current Safety Data Sheets (SDS) on the Staff Portal, ensuring information is accurate, up to date and accessible to all staff. Liaise with relevant staff across the college to coordinate updates when chemicals are introduced, removed or changed.
• Provide technical advice and assistance to other learning areas regarding chemical storage, handling, documentation and disposal requirements.
• Coordinate the safe disposal of whole college chemical residues, deteriorating stock and biological waste, including arranging collection by appropriately authorised waste contractors.
• Assist with the development, review and implementation of laboratory safety guidelines, operating procedures and safe work practices.
• Work with the Teaching & Learning Coordinator Science, to develop and facilitate an annual Science laboratory safety induction for staff using Science facilities.
• Participate in the college's OHS Committee and undertake scheduled workplace inspections, as required.
• Identify and report hazards, incidents, equipment defects and safety concerns, and assist with implementing agreed improvement actions.

Equipment, resources and facilities

• Maintain laboratory equipment, instruments, specimens and resources in a safe, clean, organised and serviceable condition.
• Undertake routine equipment checks, cleaning, calibration and minor maintenance within the scope of the role and arrange specialist servicing or repairs where required.
• Maintain appropriate storage and inventory systems for laboratory equipment, chemicals, consumables and teaching resources.
• Monitor stock levels, identify resource requirements and coordinate the timely replenishment of consumables and materials.
• Maintain biological specimens and assist with the care of plants and animals used in Science programs, in accordance with relevant animal welfare and handling requirements.
• Assist with maintaining and updating digital Science resources.

Procurement and resource management

• Coordinate the ordering of Science equipment, materials and consumables within approved budgets and college procurement procedures.
• Liaise with suppliers, obtain quotations and prepare purchasing recommendations for approval by the Teaching & Learning Coordinator Science.
• Process purchase orders, invoices and associated purchasing documentation in accordance with college financial procedures and delegated authorities.
• Maintain accurate records of purchases, stock, equipment and other laboratory resources.
• Support the Teaching & Learning Coordinator Science in identifying future equipment and resource requirements to support curriculum delivery.

Collaboration and continuous improvement

• Work collaboratively with Science teachers, the Teaching & Learning Coordinator Science and other college staff to support effective laboratory operations and practical learning.
• Contribute to the review and improvement of laboratory procedures, resource management systems and safety practices.
• Provide advice and assistance to staff regarding the appropriate use, care and management of laboratory equipment and materials.
• Participate in relevant professional learning to maintain technical knowledge and awareness of laboratory safety requirements.
• Undertake other duties consistent with the classification and responsibilities of the position, as directed by the Teaching & Learning Coordinator Science.

Who May Apply

Individuals with the aptitude, experience and/or qualifications to fulfill the specific requirements of the position.

Ways of working

All staff at Bendigo Senior Secondary College (BSSC) are expected to contribute to and uphold the following ways of working. These expectations reflect how we work together to support our students, our colleagues and our college community, and are considered alongside role-specific responsibilities.

Value people ¿ Build positive and respectful relationships. Recognise, support and develop the contribution of others while fostering inclusion, belonging and high expectations.

Build trust and collaboration ¿ Work collaboratively across teams, portfolios and partnerships. Communicate clearly, follow through on commitments and contribute to shared success.

Lead with integrity and accountability ¿ Demonstrate professionalism, consistency and sound judgement. Maintain clear expectations and take responsibility for actions and outcomes.

Prioritise wellbeing and connection ¿ Promote a culture of care, inclusion and belonging. Maintain a student‑centred and relational approach.

Promote learning and growth ¿ Use evidence, feedback and reflection to inform improvement. Build capability through coaching, collaboration and professional learning.

Inspire purpose and optimism ¿ Take initiative to improve practice, culture and outcomes. Focus on solutions, innovation and continuous improvement while contributing to a culture where students and staff can thrive.

Diversity and Inclusion

The department is committed to diversity and inclusion and developing a workforce that is representative of the community we service. We value diversity and inclusion in all forms - culture, gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQA+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for roles within the Department.The Department recognises that the provision of safe, respectful and inclusive workplaces is essential to high performance and promotes flexible work and diversity across all schools and Department workplaces.It is our policy to provide reasonable adjustments for staff with disability (see Workplace adjustment guidelines ).

Additional support and advice on the recruitment process is available to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander candidates from the Koorie Outcomes Division (KOD) via [e-mail]

Applicants seeking part-time employment are encouraged to apply for any teaching service position and, if they are the successful candidate, request a reduced time fraction. Such requests will be negotiated on a case-by-case basis and will be subject to the operational requirements of the school.

Child Safe Standards

Victorian government schools are child safe environments. Our schools actively promote the safety and wellbeing of all students, and all school staff are committed to protecting students from abuse or harm in the school environment, in accordance with their legal obligations including child safe standards. All schools have a Child Safety Code of Conduct consistent with the department's exemplar available at:

The department's employees commit to upholding the department's Values: Responsiveness, Integrity, Impartiality, Accountability, Respect, Leadership and Human Rights. The department's Values complement each school's own values and underpin the behaviours the community expects of Victorian public sector employees,including those who work in Victorian Government Schools. Information on the department values is available at:

• All staff employed by the Department and schools have access to a broad range of employment conditions and working arrangements.
• Appointment of successful applicants will be made subject to a satisfactory pre-employment conditions check.
• A probationary period may apply during the first year of employment and induction and support programs provided.

Applications close Wednesday 18 November 2026 at 11.59pm