Science Technician

Tradewind Recruitment LTD.; Greater London; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 23,000; Part time

Job summary

Tradewind Recruitment is seeking a skilled Science Technician for a Lewisham secondary school. You will support practical science lessons, preparing and managing equipment to ensure safe, efficient lessons.

The role is supply/temporary, offering exposure to a supportive environment and opportunities to demonstrate practical science expertise within Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Qualifications

• A relevant degree in a science-related subject (Biology, Chemistry, Physics or related).
• Experience as a Science Technician in a secondary school or educational lab environment.
• Solid understanding of laboratory health and safety procedures, including COSHH.

Responsibilities

• Preparing, setting up and clearing away equipment, materials and chemicals for science lessons.
• Supporting teaching staff with practical demonstrations and lab activities.
• Ensuring lab equipment is cleaned, maintained and stored properly.

Skills

Science laboratory experience

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Health and safety awareness

Education

Science-related degree

Tools

COSHH knowledge

CLEAPSS knowledge

Job description

Science Technician - Secondary School - Lewisham

Location: Lewisham, South East London

Agency: Tradewind Recruitment

Job Type: Supply / Temporary

Working Hours: 8:30am - 4:00pm

Pay Rate: £14 - £17 per hour (dependent on experience, skills and responsibilities)

About the Role

Tradewind Recruitment is seeking a skilled, enthusiastic and experienced Science Technician to support the Science Department within a secondary school in Lewisham. This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified individual with previous experience working in a school science laboratory or similar educational setting. The successful candidate will play a vital role in ensuring that practical science lessons run safely, efficiently and effectively, supporting both teaching staff and students. The position offers supply work, providing an opportunity to develop your experience within a supportive secondary school environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Preparing, setting up and clearing away equipment, materials and chemicals for practical science lessons across Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
• Supporting teaching staff with practical demonstrations and laboratory activities.
• Ensuring that laboratory equipment is cleaned, maintained, stored and ready for use.
• Managing chemical storage, stock levels and laboratory resources in accordance with relevant health and safety procedures.
• Following COSHH regulations and supporting the implementation of laboratory risk assessments.
• Assisting with the safe disposal of laboratory waste and hazardous substances.
• Maintaining an organised, safe and efficient working environment across the Science Department.
• Providing technical assistance to teachers and supporting the smooth delivery of practical science lessons.

Essential Requirements

• A relevant degree in a science-related subject, such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics or a closely related discipline.
• Previous experience working as a Science Technician within a secondary school or a comparable laboratory-based educational environment.
• A sound understanding of laboratory health and safety procedures, including COSHH regulations.
• Experience preparing practical experiments and handling scientific equipment and chemicals safely.
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with teaching and support staff.
• A professional, reliable and proactive approach to supporting science education.
• An understanding of CLEAPSS guidance and experience supporting practical science lessons at KS3 and KS4 would be advantageous.

Pay and Progression Opportunities

The hourly pay rate for this position ranges from £14 to £17 per hour, depending on the candidate's relevant experience, technical expertise and the responsibilities undertaken. Candidates with the required qualifications and relevant experience may initially be offered a rate towards the lower end of the advertised range. Opportunities to achieve a higher hourly rate may arise through:

• Greater relevant experience: Demonstrating substantial experience as a Science Technician, particularly within secondary school environments.
• Advanced technical expertise: Having strong practical knowledge across multiple scientific disciplines and the ability to independently prepare complex experiments.
• Additional responsibilities: Taking on duties such as laboratory stock management, equipment maintenance, chemical inventory management or supporting health and safety procedures.
• Professional development: Building further technical knowledge, completing relevant training and demonstrating increased competence within the role.
• Progression within the role: Consistently demonstrating reliability, initiative and the ability to work independently, potentially leading to more senior responsibilities.

Higher rates are not automatic or guaranteed. Any increase will depend on the requirements of the assignment, the level of responsibility, relevant experience and agreement with Tradewind Recruitment. #INDLSS