Senior Physics Teaching Technician - Labs & Demonstrations

University of Birmingham; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Birmingham’s Collaborative Teaching Laboratory seeks an experienced technician to assist with the setup, servicing and development of apparatus for teaching experiments in the physics undergraduate laboratories. You may supervise technical staff and will coach others while ensuring high standards for student demonstrations and practicals.

The role requires deep understanding of laboratory requirements, quick adaptation to protocol changes, and occasional after-hours work to support

Qualifications

• Experience in techniques used in a physical science laboratory is mandatory.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision while being a team player.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Supervise day-to-day activities of technical staff when in supervisory role.
• Provide support, guidance and coach staff on working requirements and safety.
• Act as role model and coach staff even when not supervisory.
• Discuss daily programmes with manager to ensure session protocols and outcomes are clear.
• Plan efficient turnaround of daily classes based on timetabling information.
• Research, design, and modify practical protocols for class teaching.
• Support teaching laboratories managers and deputise when needed.
• Keep managers informed of protocol changes and discussions with academic leads.
• Instruct and provide high level technical support to students on lab handling and techniques.
• Prepare for open days, Applicant Visitor Day events and CPD requirements.
• Oversee lab readiness and setup/takedown of equipment for sessions.
• Check layouts and ensure all requirements are in place.
• Demonstrate equipment use and high-level techniques to staff and students.
• Troubleshoot problems during practical sessions and resolve quickly.

Skills

Laboratory techniques

Teamwork

Communication

Problem solving

Equipment handling

Safety compliance

Education

GCSE Maths & English (Grade 4/C or equivalent)

Degree or equivalent in a relevant subject

Tools

CAD

Job description

University of Birmingham’s Collaborative Teaching Laboratory seeks an experienced technician to assist with the setup, servicing and development of apparatus for teaching experiments in the physics undergraduate laboratories. You may supervise technical staff and will coach others while ensuring high standards for student demonstrations and practicals.

The role requires deep understanding of laboratory requirements, quick adaptation to protocol changes, and occasional after-hours work to support