George Watson’s College wishes to appoint a Senior Biology Technician to support the Biology department in the provision of a first class, customer orientated technician service to pupils and teachers alike, ensuring that the Biology labs are run smoothly and effectively and that equipment and apparatus is operational, available and well maintained, and working at all times with Health and Safety in mind.
APPLICATION PROCESS
To apply, please click the apply for this job button. Please include a letter of application of not more than 800 words giving us more information about you and why you would like the role, addressed to Mr Gordon Boyd, Head of Senior School.
Any specific questions relating to the advertised post can be put directly to the Head of Department, Mr Geoff Morgan by emailing g.morgan@gwc.org.uk
If you require more information about the School, please visit our school website.
Closing date: 11:59pm on Monday 13 May 2024
Interviews are scheduled to take place on Tuesday 4 June 2024
The person appointed will:
Be responsible to the Head of Department in coordinating the use of, and development of, practical resources and facilities, including the provision of guidance and support in meeting the practical requirements of the departmental curriculum and clubs, including all areas of the School and outside organisations as required.
Have overall responsibility for the promotion and observance of a healthy and safe working environment for the technical support service by:
* actively leading and coordinating the assessment, monitoring and review of both health and safety procedures and information resources
* keeping up-to-date with current procedures and practices through continuing professional development
* the provision of technical advice on H&S issues to teachers and technical support staff
* the safe treatment and disposal of used materials, including hazardous substances and responding to actual or potential hazards
* the healthy and safe storage and accessibility of equipment and materials.
Ensure that the technical team is resourced, organised, trained and developed to meet the performance standards required by the Biology Department.
Take a lead role in the design, development and maintenance of specialist resources and/or long-term projects and offer professional guidance, assistance, training and support to pupils and teachers on the practical aspects of the curriculum.
Be responsible for setting up and monitoring systems used in the management and control of practical resources including:
* leading on stock control, compiling orders, liaising or negotiating with suppliers and maintaining appropriate records
* monitoring, controlling and keeping financial records of the departmental expenditure in accordance with the school’s policy
* ensuring the availability of suitable materials and equipment and suggesting alternatives for suitability and economy.
Undertake the lead role within the department on both routine and non-routine checking, cleaning, maintenance, calibration, testing and repairing of equipment to the required standard.
For full details of the main responsibilities, please refer to the job description
Essential:
A minimum of HND level qualification in a scientific subject (ideally biology) or recent applied practical experience in a similar role.
Previous supervisory experience, with the ability to motivate a team and demonstrate leadership qualities such as creativity, innovation, evidence based decision making and delegation, collegiality, motivation, mentoring and a strong desire to enhance pupil learning through practical equipment leadership.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Works well as part of and leader of a team, in addition to working well unsupervised and using own initiative
Excellent planning and organisation skills
Works well under pressure
Self-driven to act on learning needs that arise in the course of the job
Excellent attention to detail
Analytical approach to problem solving, coupled with strong decision making ability
Numeracy skills
Strong customer focus
Computer literate, with experience in using word processors, email, spreadsheets and file management software. The GAFE and Microsoft Office range of software will be used for this.
Must be able to work with/cope with data logging apparatus/software and the relevant SSERC, COSHH H&S requirements of the department.
Desirable:
Experience of working within an educational environment
Experience of working with children, willingness to assist with extra curricular activities both departmental and whole school.
Knowledge of Health and Safety regulations applicable to a School and science setting, including COSHH
Member of professional bodies, such as ASE or similar
Location: George Watson’s College, Edinburgh
Contract Type: Full time (36.25 hours per week, 52 weeks), Permanent
Salary: £35,651 - £40,619
Benefits: Competitive salary, reduced school fees at George Watson’s College for children of staff, Membership of the Galleon Club (the school’s fitness club)