Summary:
The Lab Assistant is a hands-on support role responsible for the day-to-day preparation, maintenance, and safety of the science laboratories The role requires flexibility to assist with all science disciplines particularly for Physics, Biology and Chemistry subjects. This position works in close collaboration with the Head of Laboratory and the science faculty to ensure a safe and efficient environment that supports the curriculum and the practical needs of both teachers and students. The Lab Assistant is crucial to the smooth operation of the science department, enabling high-quality, inquiry-based learning.
Responsibilities
A. Laboratory Preparation and Maintenance:
- Physics Specialization: Prepare and maintain all physics laboratory equipment, including but not limited to electrical circuits, optics benches, force meters, and data loggers.
- Cross-Disciplinary Support: Assist in the preparation of practicals and experiments for chemistry and biology classes as needed, including setting up glassware, chemical solutions, and biological specimens.
- General Maintenance: Conduct routine checks, cleaning, and basic maintenance of all laboratory apparatus and equipment. Report any necessary repairs or replacements to the Head of Laboratory.
- Inventory: Help with the management of the chemical and equipment inventory by assisting in stock checks, organizing supplies, and ensuring materials are stored correctly and safely.
B. Curriculum Support and Teacher Collaboration:
- Experiment Setup: Work closely with science teachers to prepare and set up the necessary equipment and materials for daily lessons, practical investigations, and demonstrations.
- IBDP Practical Support: Assist teachers and students with the logistical aspects of their IBDP Group 4 projects, Internal Assessments (IAs), and Extended Essays (EEs) by preparing specific equipment and materials.
- Classroom Assistance: Be available during practical lessons to provide technical assistance, troubleshoot equipment, and help maintain a safe learning environment.
C. Safety and Compliance:
- Safety Protocols: Follow all established laboratory safety policies and procedures, ensuring a safe environment for students and staff.
- Chemical Handling: Assist in the safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals and other hazardous materials under the supervision of the Head of Laboratory.
- Risk Management: Help conduct and document basic risk assessments for experiments, ensuring all potential hazards are identified and communicated to the relevant teachers.
Qualifications
- Bachelors degree in Physics, Physics Education, or a related science/engineering field (knowledge of Biology and Chemistry is an advantage).
- Minimum 12 years of experience as a Laboratory Assistant/Technician or in a similar role.
- Strong practical knowledge of physics laboratory equipment (e.g., electrical circuits, optics, force meters, data loggers).
- Ability to support cross-disciplinary practicals in Chemistry and Biology.
- Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols, including handling and disposal of chemicals and hazardous materials.
- Skilled in equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and inventory management.
- Good organizational and time management skills; able to support multiple classes and schedules.
- Collaborative, flexible, and detail-oriented with a strong service mindset.
- Proficiency in English (spoken and written).
- Training or certification in laboratory safety (preferred, not required).
