Design Technology Technician - Reading

Marchant Recruitment; Reading; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Marchant Recruitment is seeking a Design Technology Technician to support a Reading school’s design and technology curriculum.

You will prepare materials, set up tools, and assist students and staff during lessons, ensuring a safe and well-resourced workshop environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in a school workshop or technical support environment.
• Knowledge of health and safety procedures in practical settings.
• Ability to manage stock, equipment, and workshop resources.
• Experience supporting practical learning activities and lessons.

Responsibilities

• Prepare materials, tools, and equipment for Design & Technology lessons.
• Support teachers and students during practical lessons by assisting with machinery and tools.
• Demonstrate safe working practices and provide guidance to students on equipment use.
• Construct prototypes, models, jigs, and teaching aids for practical learning.
• Maintain a clean, organised, and safe workshop environment.
• Assist with safety checks and routine maintenance of workshop machinery.

Skills

Practical workshop skills

Health and safety awareness

Stock management

Equipment maintenance

CAD/3D printing familiarity

Tools

CAD software

3D printer

Laser cutter

Pillar drill

Job description

Design Technology Technician - Reading Marchant Recruitment•Reading, England, United Kingdom

· DT Technician

· Renowned School in Reading, Berkshire

· Part-Time or Full-Time

Overview

To support the effective delivery of the Design & Technology curriculum by preparing materials, maintaining equipment, and ensuring a safe, organised, and well-resourced workshop environment for staff and students.

Role Purpose

The Design Technology Technician provides technical and practical support to the Design & Technology department. The role ensures that equipment, tools, materials, and workshop environments are prepared and maintained to enable high-quality teaching and learning.

The post holder will support teachers and students during practical lessons, maintain machinery and specialist equipment, manage stock and resources, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

The role contributes positively to the ethos, aims, and wider work of the school.

Workshop and Classroom Support

Prepare materials, tools, and equipment for Design & Technology lessons across relevant specialisms such as resistant materials, product design, electronics, graphics, and textiles.

Support teachers and students during practical lessons by assisting with the use of machinery, tools, and equipment.

Demonstrate safe working practices and provide guidance to students when using workshop equipment.

Construct prototypes, models, jigs, and teaching aids to support practical learning activities.

Set up and dismantle practical lesson equipment before and after lessons.

Assist students with project work, coursework, and practical assignments.

Maintain a clean, organised, and safe workshop environment.

Support practical assessments and examination coursework preparation.

Equipment and Resource Management

Maintain, service, and repair workshop machinery, tools, and specialist equipment.

Carry out regular checks of machinery such as pillar drills, band saws, sanding machines, and laser cutters.

Monitor stock levels of materials including wood, plastics, metals, electronic components, and consumables.

Order and manage supplies to ensure resources are available for lessons and projects.

Maintain tool storage systems and ensure equipment is returned and stored safely.

Assist with installation of new machinery or workshop equipment.

Organise and maintain resource storage areas and preparation rooms.

Health and Safety Compliance

Ensure all workshop activities comply with health and safety legislation and school policies.

Carry out risk assessments for practical activities and machinery use.

Ensure compliance with CLEAPSS guidance and safe workshop practices.

Monitor safe storage of hazardous materials, chemicals, and sharp tools.

Ensure correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by students and staff.

Dispose of waste materials safely and in accordance with school procedures.

Maintain health and safety records and accident logs.

Technical Support and Preparation

Prepare equipment and resources for demonstrations and practical lessons.

Support teachers with preparation of student coursework and design projects.

Assist in the production of teaching resources including templates, models, and examples.

Support the use of CAD software, 3D printers, and laser cutting equipment where applicable.

Assist with maintenance of computers and software used for design and manufacturing processes.

Provide technical troubleshooting support for workshop equipment.

Data Management and Record Keeping

Maintain accurate records of equipment maintenance and servicing schedules.

Monitor and update stock inventory systems for materials and tools.

Record safety inspections and machinery checks.

Assist in preparing reports on resource usage and equipment needs.

Maintain documentation for compliance, inspections, and audits.

Communication and Support

Work closely with Design & Technology teachers to ensure lessons are well prepared.

Provide advice to staff and students on the safe use of equipment and materials.

Liaise with suppliers and contractors regarding equipment servicing and deliveries.

Support departmental displays, exhibitions, and student project showcases.

Assist with preparation for school open evenings and departmental events.

Additional Responsibilities

Attend staff training (INSET) and departmental meetings when required.

Support school open evenings, exhibitions, and curriculum events.

Assist with department improvement projects and workshop upgrades.

Support enrichment activities such as STEM clubs, robotics clubs, or design competitions.

Undertake additional duties as directed by the Headteacher or School Business Manager.

The duties outlined above reflect the current requirements of the role and may be reviewed through the performance management process.

Safeguarding Statement

The school in Watford is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and satisfactory references.

Person Specification

Experience

Experience working in a school, workshop, or technical support environment (desirable)

Experience using workshop machinery and tools

Experience supporting practical learning environments or training settings

Experience managing stock, equipment, or workshop resources

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Strong practical and technical skills in workshop environments

Good knowledge of health and safety procedures in practical settings

Excellent organisational and time management skills

Strong attention to detail and ability to work safely

Ability to prioritise tasks and manage competing demands

Strong communication and teamwork skills

Competent IT skills including Microsoft Office and design software where applicable

Ability to support students in a practical learning environment