Science Technician

Ark Schools; Greater London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational institution in Greater London seeks a Science Technician to support practical science education. Responsibilities include preparing equipment, ensuring health and safety compliance, and assisting teachers with curriculum development. The role offers a competitive salary above the main pay scale, generous training days, and access to employee benefits such as gym discounts and financial support for travel and equipment.

Benefits

Salaries 2.5% higher than main pay scale

Twice as many training days as standard

Generous pension scheme

Gym discounts up to 40%

Access to employee assistance programme

Qualifications

• Experience in a science laboratory setting.
• Strong understanding of health and safety regulations.
• Ability to conduct risk assessments.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and set up equipment for biology, chemistry, and physics lessons.
• Maintain and organize laboratories and prep rooms.
• Assist in the development of practical activities.

Skills

Technical support

Health and safety compliance

Equipment management

Curriculum support

Communication

Job description

About The Role Overview of the role: The Science Technician plays a vital role in supporting the effective delivery of practical science education within a school. They provide technical support to teachers and students across biology, chemistry, and physics, ensuring that all practical lessons run smoothly, safely, and efficiently. Science Technicians help maintain a high standard of practical science by preparing, maintaining, and managing laboratory equipment, materials, and resources.

Key Responsibilities

Practical and Technical Support

• Prepare, set up, and clear away materials and equipment for science lessons (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics).
• Provide direct technical assistance during practical sessions when required.
• Trial and risk-assess experiments prior to classroom use.
• Support teachers in developing engaging and innovative practical activities aligned with curriculum objectives.
• Assist classroom teachers, as directed, in producing creative classroom displays that enhance teaching and learning.
• Prepare demonstration materials and models for teachers as needed.

Health, Safety, and Compliance

• Maintain science laboratories and prep rooms in a safe, organised, and clean condition.
• Ensure compliance with COSHH, CLEAPSS, and all relevant health and safety legislation.
• Conduct regular safety inspections of laboratories, fume cupboards, and safety apparatus.
• Maintain and update risk assessments and safety data sheets (SDS) for all practical activities.
• Ensure appropriate PPE is available, maintained, and correctly used.
• Safely manage the storage, labelling, and disposal of hazardous substances and waste materials.
• Promote and model safe working practices among students and staff.

Resource and Equipment Management

• Maintain an accurate inventory of science materials, apparatus, and chemicals.
• Monitor stock levels and order supplies in a cost-effective and timely manner.
• Calibrate, test, and maintain laboratory equipment, reporting faults and arranging repairs as necessary.
• Ensure all scientific instruments and ICT-based equipment are functioning properly and updated.
• Support sustainability by managing resources efficiently and minimising waste.

Support for Curriculum and Development

• Assist teachers in designing and implementing new practical activities and experiments.
• Support the delivery of STEM initiatives and enrichment activities such as Science Clubs, fairs, and competitions.
• Provide technical guidance to staff and students on the correct use of scientific equipment and procedures.
• Keep up to date with developments in science education, laboratory techniques, and new technologies.
• Contribute to the ongoing review and improvement of departmental procedures and resources.

Administration and Communication

• Maintain accurate records of equipment use, maintenance, repairs, and incidents.
• Work collaboratively with teaching and technical staff across all science disciplines.
• Participate in departmental and whole-school meetings, contributing ideas for improvement.
• Assist with administrative duties such as photocopying, filing, and data entry on departmental spreadsheets.
• Communicate effectively with suppliers, contractors, and external agencies when sourcing or repairing equipment.

Other

• Carry out other reasonable tasks as directed by the Executive Principal and ALT.
• To work collaboratively as a member of the Business Support Team.
• To carry out first aid duties, if required.
• To undertake fire marshal duties, if required.
• To undertake lunch till duties, if required.
• To undertake corridor duties, if required.
• To be willing to undertake appropriate training in line with contractual duties.
• To be flexible in regard to working hours.
• Attend and support out of hours academy events e.g., summer fair, parents' evenings.

Benefits

Salaries 2.5% higher than main pay scale. Twice as many training days as standard. Generous pension scheme. Access to Ark rewards - a scheme offering savings from over 3,000 major retailers. Interest-free loans - up to £5,000 available for season ticket or to buy a bicycle. Gym discounts - offering up to 40%. Access to Employee Assistance Programme - providing free, confidential counselling, legal advice and a range of different support.