Assistant Laboratory Technician, University of Surrey

University of Surrey: Autoclave Laboratory Technician (Part-Time) - A Career Insight

The University of Surrey is a renowned institution with a global vision for transformative education and groundbreaking research. They foster an ambitious culture, striving to be among the world's leading universities by empowering their employees to make a significant impact.

The Opportunity: Autoclave Laboratory Technician

This is an excellent part-time opportunity (0.6 FTE, equating to 21.6 hours per week) within the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences. As an Autoclave Laboratory Technician, you will play a crucial role in the efficient and safe operation of high-throughput decontamination processes for laboratory waste. Working under the guidance of the Senior Laboratory Technician, you'll contribute to the smooth running of the School of Biosciences & Medicine's laboratory services.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Daily collection of biological waste from various laboratories.
• Operating autoclaves and glass washers to ensure effective decontamination and cleaning.
• Maintaining efficient turnaround times for reusable laboratory equipment.
• Collaborating with the laboratory team to deliver a reliable and customer-focused service.

Advantages for Aspiring Professionals:

This role offers a compelling pathway for individuals seeking to build a career in a dynamic scientific environment. Here are some key advantages:

• Valuable Practical Experience: Gain hands-on experience in essential laboratory operations, specifically in decontamination and waste management. This is a foundational skill set highly valued in many scientific and healthcare settings.
• Comprehensive Training: The University of Surrey provides full training in crucial areas such as lab safety, chemical handling, and biosafety. This ensures you'll be well-equipped and confident in your responsibilities, regardless of your prior experience.
• Supportive Environment: You'll be part of a global community dedicated to learning and innovation. The role emphasizes teamwork and contributing to a reliable service, fostering a collaborative atmosphere.
• Career Flexibility: The part-time nature of this role makes it ideal for individuals seeking to balance work with other commitments, such as further studies, family responsibilities, or a gradual return to the workforce after a career break. The university explicitly encourages applications from those returning from career breaks or parental leave.
• Professional Development: The University of Surrey is committed to employee growth, offering "plentiful development opportunities" that can help you advance your skills and career trajectory.
• Attractive Benefits Package: Beyond the professional experience, you'll benefit from a generous pension and annual leave entitlement, travel and family benefits (including subsidized rail fare, cycle to work scheme, and an on-site nursery), discounted access to the Surrey Sports Park, and convenient on-site amenities like parking, cafes, and restaurants.
• Commitment to Inclusivity: The University of Surrey actively fosters an inclusive and diverse environment, offering equal opportunities for all.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

To thrive in this role and leverage it for your career growth, consider the following:

• Practical and Methodical Approach: Success hinges on a hands-on, organized, and meticulous way of working. If you enjoy detail-oriented tasks and following established procedures, this role will be a good fit.
• Health & Safety Awareness: A strong understanding of Health & Safety, particularly when working with potentially contaminated materials, is vital. The training provided will solidify this, but a proactive attitude towards safety is essential.
• Manual Dexterity: The role involves the manual handling of materials. If you are comfortable with this aspect of the work, you'll be well-suited.
• Independent Work and Time Management: While part of a team, you'll also need to work independently and manage your time effectively to meet daily demands.
• Transferable Skills: Experience in laboratory settings, the food industry, catering, medical, or social care are all considered advantageous, highlighting the transferable nature of skills related to hygiene, safety, and meticulous processes.
• Future Aspirations: This role provides a solid foundation in laboratory support. If your long-term career goals involve further laboratory work, research support, or health sciences, the experience gained here will be invaluable.

This Autoclave Laboratory Technician position at the University of Surrey is more than just a job; it's an opportunity to contribute to vital research and education while developing essential skills in a supportive and rewarding environment. It's an excellent stepping stone for those passionate about science and committed to making a difference.