Science Technician | Secondary Academy & Sixth Form | Chelmsford

Marchant Recruitment; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

Marchant Recruitment is seeking a methodical Science Technician for a busy secondary science department in Chelmsford. You will prepare chemical solutions, set up biology, chemistry, and physics experiments, and maintain equipment while upholding COSHH and CLEAPSS safety standards.

The role involves supporting practical lessons across Key Stages 3–5, handling stock management, and assisting staff with demonstrations in a dynamic school environment.

Qualifications

• COSHH/CLEAPSS safety knowledge and compliance.
• Proven organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively with teaching staff in a fast-paced lab environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, set up, and clear away equipment and chemical solutions for practical lessons across key stages.
• Ensure laboratory safety and CLEAPSS/COSHH compliance, conduct risk assessments and manage hazardous waste.
• Monitor stock levels of chemicals, glassware, and consumables; log orders and maintain stores.
• Perform routine maintenance and calibration of lab equipment and balances.
• Assist staff during practical lessons and support science demonstrations and safe lab operations.

Skills

COSHH/CLEAPSS safety

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Education

A-Level or NVQ Level 2/3 in Laboratory Skills

Job description

We are seeking a methodical, organized, and proactive Science Technician to support the daily practical operations of our busy Science department across Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4, and Key Stage 5. Reporting to the Senior Science Technician, the successful candidate will prepare chemical solutions, organize apparatus for biology, chemistry, and physics practical lessons, maintain laboratory equipment, and uphold strict health and safety standards across all teaching laboratories.

THE SCHOOL

Set on a modern campus featuring purpose-built science laboratories, specialized preparation rooms, and chemical storage facilities, this vibrant secondary academy supports over 1,200 pupils aged 11–18 in Chelmsford. The Science faculty is dedicated to practical, inquiry-based learning, delivering GCSE Combined Science, Triple Science, and A-Level Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. The technical support team plays an essential role in enabling safe, high-quality experimental work and supporting extracurricular STEM initiatives.

KEY TASKS & DAILY OPERATIONS

Practical Preparation & Delivery: Prepare, set up, and clear away equipment, chemical solutions, specimens, and apparatus required for practical demonstrations and student experiments across all key stages.

Laboratory Safety & CLEAPSS Compliance: Ensure all lab activities adhere strictly to COSHH regulations and CLEAPSS safety guidelines, carrying out routine risk assessments and managing hazardous waste disposal safely.

Inventory & Stock Control: Monitor stock levels of chemicals, glassware, and consumables, logging orders, receiving deliveries, and maintaining organized chemical stores and equipment inventory.

Maintenance & Calibration: Perform routine maintenance, safety checks, and cleaning of laboratory equipment, balances, microscopes, and Bunsen burner systems, reporting any faults promptly.

Departmental Support: Assist teaching staff during practical lessons where required, support open evening science demonstrations, and help maintain orderly, safe working environments across all science suites.

PROFILE REQUIREMENTS

Qualifications: Qualified to A-Level standard or equivalent in a scientific discipline (Biology, Chemistry, or Physics) or holding a recognized science laboratory technician qualification (e.g., NVQ Level 2/3 in Laboratory and Technical Skills).

Experience: Previous experience working as a technician in a secondary school, college, or commercial laboratory environment is preferred.

Skills: Solid understanding of laboratory health and safety protocols (COSHH/CLEAPSS), good organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively alongside teaching staff in a fast-paced environment.

REGIONAL CONTEXT

Local Area & Community: Located in the heart of Essex, the city of Chelmsford combines rich historic charm with modern urban amenities. As England’s birthplace of radio, Chelmsford offers an excellent quality of life with bustling commercial centers, historic parks like Hylands House and Park, and a strong, family-oriented local community.

Transport & Commuting: Chelmsford boasts exceptional transport connectivity across Essex and the East of England. Situated adjacent to the A12 trunk road and within easy reach of the M25 motorway, road travel is highly accessible. Public transit is served by extensive First Essex bus routes and Chelmsford Railway Station, providing rapid, direct rail links on the Great Eastern Main Line into London Liverpool Street and Colchester.

Science Technician | Secondary Academy & Sixth Form | Chelmsford Chelmsford, United Kingdom