Chemistry Technician

Contract: Open Ended

Closing date: Midnight on 27th October 2022

Heriot-Watt University has established a reputation for world-class teaching and leading-edge, relevant research, which has made it one of the top UK universities for innovation, business and industry.

The School of Engineering & Physical Sciences has an international research reputation and close connection with the professional and industrial world of science, engineering and technology. 

Job Summary

A laboratory technician is required to assist in the setting up of teaching and research laboratories, the operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment, and the training of staff and students in the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences.

The post holder supports work in the area of chemistry in teaching and research analytical laboratories. Although each technician in the School has a primary area for which they are responsible, they must also work as part of a team to support and cover duties across the School at busy times. 

The successful candidate will set up and maintain equipment, prepare materials, organise consumables and diagnose and rectify faults in teaching and research laboratories.  In addition, the laboratory technician will provide technical supervision, guidance and training for undergraduate and MSc students, as well as assistance for postgraduate and postdoctoral researchers and other staff. The post holder will assist the Building Superintendent in safety, estates and maintenance issues across the School. A flexible approach to this work is essential.

Candidates should have a minimum of an HNC (or equivalent) in chemistry, sciences or substantial work experience in a relevant role.  Experience in a higher education teaching or research environment is desirable as is an aptitude for IT and a willingness to learn new techniques and processes. Experience of good laboratory practice is essential and use/maintenance of standard chemistry lab equipment desirable although appropriate training will be provided.

Key duties and responsibilities (for full list follow the link)

• Setting out and preparing teaching class and research laboratory equipment and materials
• Basic testing, fault finding, repair and maintenance of equipment.
• Preparing standard operating procedures for techniques and equipment.
• Technical supervision and assisting of students and staff in undergraduate classes and research laboratories.
• Distribute PPE (personal protective equipment) and general laboratory attributes and provide locker storage facilities for staff and students.

Essential Criteria (for full list follow the link)

• Minimum HNC/HND or equivalent in chemistry, sciences or substantial work experience in a similar role.
• Laboratory technician skills working in a teaching/research environment or similar industrial workplace.
• Experience of maintenance and fault finding of equipment.
• Good understanding of health & safety regulations and procedures.
• Good planning, team, communication and organisational skills

For all criteria, further details and how to apply:

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Heriot-Watt University is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected, trained, promoted, appraised and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities. Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all.

Heriot-Watt University values diversity across our University community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups. For more information, please see our website www.hw.ac.uk/uk/services/equality-diversity.htm  and also our award-winning work in Disability Inclusive Science Careers disc.hw.ac.uk .