Job description

The Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences (NMES) is a vibrant faculty based in the heart of London with a long tradition of world-leading research and teaching in physics, mathematics, chemistry, informatics and engineering.   

This role presents an exciting opportunity to be part of a technical team supporting the research within the Chemistry department. Reporting to the Technical Services Manager (Operations) at the Guys campus. 

The role-holder will have responsibility for the day-to-day running and maintenance of the chemistry research laboratories and auxiliary facilities. They will work as part of a team of technicians, working collaboratively with academic and professional services stakeholders to provide technical support to research groups in the department.

The ideal candidate will have a background in the chemical sciences with experience in a higher education (HE) research environment. They will have knowledge and experience of laboratory health and safety regulations, general technical support, training and supervision across a range of lab-based research activities. 

The successful candidate will be an active member of King’s Technical Network, engaging in Faculty and College initiatives to strengthen and share best practice, with an ongoing commitment to professional development. They will facilitate an inclusive culture and ethos in line with King’s Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) strategy, proactively liaising with both internal and external stakeholders at all levels.  

This post will be offered on an indefinite contract. 

This is a full-time post - 35 hours a week

Key responsibilities

Technical, health & safety 

• Be responsible for the delivery of the day-to-day operations and maintenance of the research and auxiliary laboratories.
• Organise the installation, maintenance and servicing of equipment, ranging from general lab equipment, such as rotary evaporators, freeze driers, to analytical equipment, such as HPLC, UV, FTIR spectrophotometers, along with maintaining lab consumables: stocks and supplies.
• Develop and deliver training and inductions materials for students and staff. Troubleshooting when needed.
• Prepare and maintain safety documentation and assist with the investigation of accidents/incidents/near miss events.
• Working with colleagues in Health and Safety Services, maintain a sound working knowledge of all relevant regulations, codes of practice and local guidance/protocols.
• Undertake Evacuation Marshal and First Aid duties for the areas of responsibility.

Professional

• Work with academic and Professional Services stakeholders to ensure a complete technical service for the department.
• Maintain accurate and organised electronic records in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation and cyber security best practice.
• Manage own workload, pattern of work and resources based on an agreed work plan. Being responsive to changing priorities and an evolving environment, maximising the efficiency of the technical support being provided. Working independently and cooperatively as appropriate.
• Build and maintain strong relationships and networks with lab users, colleagues and contractors. Adhering to and implementing environmentally sustainable practices, processes and sharing good practice.
• Commit to ongoing professional development.

The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.

Skills, knowledge, and experience 

Essential criteria  

1.      Minimum level 4 qualification, e.g. higher apprenticeship, HNC or other Level 4 award, plus work experience in a relevant field, or considerable knowledge and skills gained through work experience in relevant technical or scientific post. 

2.      Evidence of an active commitment to professional development (such as RSci, working towards CSci) 

3.      Extensive technical knowledge and skills of a research laboratory environment in a relevant field, e.g., chemistry and or biochemistry. 

4.      Good working knowledge of regulations and best practice governing Chemistry research laboratories, including Health & Safety and environmental sustainability. 

5.      Strong written, oral, and IT communication skills, in particular when conveying complex information to a lay/ non-expert audience.  

6.      Effective communication skills and the ability to work as part of team. 

7.      Ability to organise and manage own workload. 

8.      Excellent planning & organisational skills, managing competing priorities and work with minimal supervision. 

9.      Ability to train staff, researchers, and technical staff. 

10.   Ability to take effective decisions and be an effective problem solver. 

Desirable criteria

1.      MSc or PhD in relevant subject, e.g., chemistry and or biochemistry. 

2.      Experience of supervising/advising junior team members, giving feedback on performance levels and training/coaching where necessary. 

3.      Able and willing to provide support beyond core hours, as required e.g. during a weekend open day event.