Science Technician

Education Authority; Bangor; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A local education body in Northern Ireland is seeking a Technician 1 to provide vital technical support in schools. The ideal candidate will assist teaching staff with resources and ensure health and safety compliance. Essential qualifications include five GCSEs and relevant experience. Proficiency in Microsoft Office is required. Join a supportive environment committed to education and student safety.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support and assistance to teaching staff.
• Prepare, organise, and construct resources for demonstrations.
• Ensure safety checks of materials and equipment.
• Operate manual and computerized systems for administrative tasks.
• Assist with emergency evacuations.

Skills

Effective planning and organisational skills

Ability to work under pressure

Teamwork

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Word

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook

Education

Five GCSEs (Grades A*-C) including English, Mathematics, and a subject-specific qualification

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: Technician 1

REPORTS TO: School Principal through designated line manager

JOB PURPOSE: To provide technical support and assistance to teaching staff in the implementation of the school’s/department's educational programme.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Under the direction of the designated line manager, the post holder will be responsible for the following in accordance with appropriate regulations:

Provision and Maintenance of Facilities and Practical Resources

• Prepare, organise, and construct resources for teacher demonstrations and practical examinations.
• Set out equipment and materials for class use and remove them when the class is complete.
• Collect, clean, and store equipment and materials in designated storage areas, ensuring items are maintained in a ready-to-use state.
• Dispose of used materials safely and appropriately.
• Ensure mandatory and statutory checks of materials and equipment are carried out by qualified personnel.
• Report unsafe or unsatisfactory materials and equipment to the line manager and arrange for repair or disposal.
• Prevent unauthorised access to equipment and materials when not in use.
• Advise on health and safety issues related to equipment use.

Administration

• Operate manual and computerized systems for administrative tasks related to the work area.
• Maintain an inventory of departmental resources.
• Assist in ordering, receiving, checking, storing, and distributing resources.

General

• Support staff in ensuring pupil safety.
• Assist with emergency evacuations.
• Perform photocopying as needed.

Technical staff may also be required to:

• Handle cash for practical materials purchases.
• Assist with hospitality at meetings and school events.
• Carry out minor maintenance within their competence.

This job description is subject to review and may include other duties of a similar nature relevant to the grade.

In accordance with Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act (1998), the post-holder must promote good relations, equality of opportunity, and adhere to equality legislation at all times.

For terms and conditions, click here.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

NOTES TO JOB APPLICANTS

• Demonstrate how you meet each criterion on your application form; failure to do so may affect your chances of being shortlisted.
• Meet the criteria by the application deadline unless specified otherwise.
• Shortlisting is based on the information provided in your application.
• The panel may shortlist only those applicants who most strongly meet the criteria.
• Desirable criteria may be used to narrow the candidate pool if needed.

SECTION 1 - ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

Measured at shortlisting and possibly during interview:

• Qualifications: Five GCSEs (Grades A*-C) including English, Mathematics, and a subject-specific qualification or equivalent.
• Experience: At least one year of relevant experience.
• Knowledge: Understanding of Technician 1 requirements, health and safety regulations, and administrative processes.

SECTION 2 - ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

Measured during interview:

• Effective planning and organisational skills, ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Sound interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Reflecting the school’s values and ethos.

SECTION 3 - DESIRABLE CRITERIA

Measured during application and possibly interview:

• Experience in a Science-related area (minimum one year).

DISCLOSURE OF CRIMINAL BACKGROUND

Enhanced Disclosure required for roles involving regulated activity with children or young people. The applicant bears the cost of the disclosure. Further info at NI Direct or the Department of Justice.

APPLICANT GUIDANCE NOTES

Access guidance notes here. Learn about benefits here.

The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer