LAB TECHNICIAN - JOB DESCRIPTION Pangbourne College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. Job Title : Lab Technician Reports to: Head of Science Department: Science - Physics Hours per week: 25 hours per week, 35 weeks Contract Type: Permanent Key working relationships: The Head of Science The Head of Physics The Science Department The Health & Safety Manager The Works Department / Cleaners Role Summary: Physics Laboratory Technician The Physics Laboratory Technician plays a key role in supporting the effective delivery of practical Physics across the school, including KS3, GCSE and A-Level. Working closely with teaching staff, the technician ensures that practical lessons and demonstrations are prepared efficiently and carried out safely. Responsibilities include the preparation, setting up and clearing away of equipment for lessons, assessments and examinations; the routine checking, maintenance and safe storage of apparatus and materials; and supporting health and safety through adherence to school policies and CLEAPSS guidance. The technician assists with risk assessments, maintains accurate inventories, and supports the effective organisation of the laboratory. The role also involves managing stock levels, ordering equipment and consumables, and supporting departmental activities such as enrichment events, clubs and open events. The technician contributes to a safe, well-resourced and well-organised learning environment that enables high-quality practical work and supports students’ understanding and enjoyment of Physics. The role requires strong organisational skills, a sound understanding of Physics practical work, a proactive approach to health and safety, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative departmental team. Key Responsibilities: ● Managing the scheduling and booking of Physics practicals by teachers ● The safe and timely delivery and setup of practical apparatus and materials for teaching ● The safe clear up of practical apparatus after the learning activities ● Clean all glassware and apparatus after practical lessons and check for damage ● Return all consumables/chemicals to their appropriate storage places ● Take stock of all consumables/chemicals, apparatus and stationary normally held by the Physics Department, annually ● Be responsible for placing orders and checking deliveries of all goods required by the Physics Department ● Organise servicing of equipment as required ● Assist Physics staff with practical work during lessons, if requested to do so ● Assist with the preparation of practical work of the other two science departments whenever necessary ● Ensure the safe disposal of broken apparatus and consumables, etc. ● Report any maintenance required in the Physics block to the works department, including keeping sinks in laboratories clean and report any blockages or leaks to the works department ● Carry out a laboratory safety check at least once a term using safety checklist provided ● Be responsible for the upkeep of lab coats, etc., used by the department ● Photocopy resources (including worksheets, examination material and other materials) ● Perform any other tasks that may be reasonably requested by the Head of Department Other The above is only an outline of the tasks and responsibilities of the role. The post holder will carry out any other duties as may be reasonably required by his/her line manager The job description and person specification may be reviewed on an on-going basis in accordance with the changing needs of the department and College. This job description and accompanying documentation do not form part of the employment contract. Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy It is the post holder’s responsibility for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children. You will comply with the Pangbourne College Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy, and the requirement to report to the Designated Safeguarding Lead any concerns relating to the safety or welfare of children. Terms and Conditions of Service The post holder will be required to comply with all policies and procedures issued by and on behalf of the College. The post holder will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service Certificate. The post holder will be required to participate in the College’s appraisal procedures as an appraisee and if applicable, as an appraiser. The post holder will be required to attend statutory and mandatory training. Information Security, Confidentiality and Data Protection During the course of employment the post holder may have access to, see or hear information of a confidential nature and he/she will be required not to disclose such information. All personal identification information must be held in the strictest confidence and should be disclosed only to authorised people in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation and the College’s Privacy Notice, unless explicit written consent has been given by the person identified. Equal Opportunities The post holder must comply with and promote Equal Opportunities and avoid any behaviour which discriminates against others on the grounds of sex, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, age, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion, political opinion, trade union membership. Health and Safety Under the Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974, it is the responsibility of individual employees at every level to take care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their own acts at work. This includes co-operating with the College and colleagues in complying with Health and Safety obligations to maintain a safe environment. It is the firm policy of the College to promote a happy, professional, yet “family” atmosphere and to develop the potential of all pupils and staff. If ever there is a need to talk over aspects of school, or indeed home-related issues, please speak to your head of department or a colleague.