Senior Science Technician

Safeguarding The Sigma Trust; Colchester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic educational institution in Colchester seeks a Senior Science Technician to provide technical support in the Science department. The role requires excellent organizational skills, substantial science knowledge, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. The successful candidate will manage equipment, ensure safety compliance, and support teaching staff in practical lessons. A competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package are offered, promoting professional development and employee well-being.

Benefits

Health Cash Plan

Confidential Employee Assistance Programme

Cycle to Work scheme

Discounts via Perkbox

Qualifications

• Significant experience in a specialist technical area, preferably in a school.
• Ability to read and write complex technical reports.
• Good knowledge of school policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the science teaching and preparation areas.
• Ensure efficient preparation of equipment for lessons.
• Support teaching with the development of practicals.

Skills

Organisational skills

Science knowledge

Ability to remain calm under pressure

Understanding of Health & Safety procedures

Education

NVQ Level 3/4 or equivalent in Science

Job description

Join a Team That is Committed to 'Building Brighter Futures' at Paxman Academy? Are you highly organised, detail-oriented, and passionate about supporting student success? An exciting opportunity has arisen to work as part of a well established and dynamic team. We require a Senior Science Technician who will support the learning needs of students by providing technical and resource leadership to the Science department. The ideal candidate should be able demonstrate substantial Science knowledge, have excellent organisational skills and a keen eye for detail. Training will be given where appropriate but experience of working in a fast-paced environment will be desirable.

Responsibilities

• The successful candidate will work 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
• This is a 39-week-per-year role, which includes term time and non-pupil days.
• Overseeing the general running of the science teaching and preparation areas as outlined in the Practical policy.
• Ensuring efficient preparation and organisation of equipment for lessons.
• Supporting the teaching of science with the continual development of practicals alongside the Science team.
• Developing and maintaining effective systems for the science team.
• Cleaning equipment and laboratories after lessons and any chemical spillages when they occur.
• Ensuring the application of Health and Safety procedures and to raise awareness of H&S issues specifically in relation to laboratories.
• Directing and adjusting working arrangements for the team as appropriate to meet fluctuations in workload and ensure cover for absent colleagues as required.
• Identifying, planning, co‑ordinating and undertaking team training requirements.
• Working in collaboration with the Head of Department to set and manage departmental budgets.
• Managing departmental equipment and materials and ensuring appropriate stock levels are maintained.
• Ensuring periodic and routine inspection and maintenance of departmental equipment and resources as advised by CLEAPPS.
• Working in collaboration with the Head of Department to ensure risk assessments are carried out.

About Us

Working in collaboration with teaching staff to disseminate work set for classes due to teacher absence, Paxman Academy is committed to providing an ordered, stimulating learning environment in which all students are encouraged to achieve their best. It is determined that all students should be valued through the provision of a broad, relevant, balanced and challenging curriculum that caters for individual needs; this is encouraged within an atmosphere of mutual respect. The Academy recognises its role within the broader community. It is determined to maintain a STEM focus throughout the curriculum and across extended learning opportunities. It identifies learning as a lifelong process and values the contribution made by parents and others to the creation of a partnership. Within this partnership, and through learning opportunities provided, students will develop skills, attitudes and values that prepare them to accept the challenges and responsibilities of adult life.

Qualifications

• Successful experience working in a specialist technical area, possibly in a school environment.
• NVQ Level 3/4 or equivalent qualification in a relevant Science based subject.
• Good knowledge of school policies and procedures.
• Ability to read and write complex and technical reports.
• Excellent organisational skills.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Excellent understanding of Health & Safety legislation and procedures relating to specialist area.
• Ability to advise others.

What We Offer

We believe in investing in our staff and fostering a culture of collaboration. We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive package designed to support your professional and personal life.

Professional Development

• A robust CPD training program that empowers you to flourish.
• Unrivalled opportunities to collaborate with colleagues across the Trust, sharing ideas and building strong professional relationships.

Employee Benefits

• A competitive salary and excellent pension scheme.
• A Health Cash Plan to help manage your everyday healthcare costs.
• Access to a confidential Employee Assistance Programme to support your well‑being.
• Exclusive perks like the Cycle to Work scheme, access to discounts via free membership to Perkbox, eligibility for a Blue Light Card, and more.

Safeguarding & Diversity

• The Sigma Trust is committed to safeguarding and protecting the children and young people that we work with. As such, all posts are subject to safer recruitment processes, including the disclosure of criminal records, online checks and other vetting checks. We ensure that we have a range of policies in place which promote safeguarding and safer working practice across our schools.
• All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.
• The Sigma Trust is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of any protected characteristics. This is embedded in our vision "To Be Greater Than The Sum Of Its Parts", where we believe we are strong and more successful working together, creating a workplace which celebrates diversity.