Laboratory Technician-Science & Computer Laboratories

Laboratory Technician-Science & Computer Laboratories

Institution: Kuwala Christian Girls School
Location: Malawi
Reports to: Head Teacher / Deputy Head / Head of Science Department

1. Purpose of the Role

To manage and provide technical support for the school's science and computer laboratories, ensuring that equipment, materials, ICT systems, and learning facilities are properly maintained, safe, organised, and available to support effective teaching and learning.

2. Key Responsibilities

1. Science Laboratory Management

• Prepare science laboratories, equipment, chemicals, specimens, and materials for practical lessons.
• Support teachers in preparing and conducting Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and other relevant practical activities.
• Ensure laboratory equipment and materials are properly stored, maintained, and available when required.
• Maintain accurate inventories of equipment, chemicals, glassware, specimens, and consumables.
• Monitor the condition of laboratory equipment and report damaged or faulty items.
• Monitor laboratory supplies and advise management when replenishment is required.
• Support science practical examinations and assessments.

   2. Laboratory Safety

• Maintain high standards of laboratory safety, cleanliness, and organisation.
• Ensure chemicals and hazardous materials are properly labelled, stored, and handled.
• Ensure appropriate safety equipment is available and maintained.
• Ensure laboratory safety rules are displayed and followed.
• Report accidents, spills, breakages, damaged equipment, or other safety concerns immediately.
• Support emergency and laboratory safety procedures.

    3. Computer Laboratory Management

• Manage the day-to-day operation of the computer laboratory.
• Ensure computers and other ICT equipment are properly maintained and available for teaching and learning.
• Assist with the setup and preparation of computers for lessons and examinations.
• Maintain accurate records and inventory of computers, printers, networking equipment, accessories, and other ICT resources.
• Monitor the condition and proper use of computer laboratory equipment.
• Assist with software installation, updates, and basic configuration where authorised.
• Support teachers and students with basic computer-related technical issues.
• Ensure the computer laboratory is clean, secure, organised, and properly maintained.

   4. Basic ICT and Networking Support

• Provide basic troubleshooting for computers, printers, projectors, and other ICT equipment.
• Provide basic support for local area networks, Wi-Fi, routers, switches, and access points.
• Assist in identifying and reporting network and internet connectivity problems.
• Support the proper connection and configuration of ICT equipment.
• Maintain basic records of ICT equipment and network resources.
• Escalate complex technical problems to the appropriate ICT technician or service provider.

    5.Records and Resource Management

• Maintain accurate records of laboratory equipment, chemicals, consumables, and ICT equipment.
• Monitor the use of laboratory materials and supplies.
• Maintain records of equipment maintenance, repairs, faults, and replacements.
• Assist in preparing reports on laboratory and ICT resource requirements.
• Support stocktaking and inventory checks for both science and computer laboratories.

    6. Support for Teaching and Learning

• Work closely with Science, Computer Studies, and other relevant teachers.
• Ensure laboratories are ready before lessons and properly secured after use.
• Support students in the appropriate and safe use of laboratory and ICT resources.
• Promote responsible use and care of school equipment.
• Support practical examinations and other activities requiring laboratory or ICT facilities.

    7. Qualifications and Experience

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Laboratory Technology, Science, ICT, Computer Science, Education, or a related field.
• Relevant experience in a science laboratory and/or computer laboratory is an advantage.
• Basic knowledge of computer hardware and software.
• Basic knowledge of computer networking and troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures.
• Experience working in a school or educational environment is an advantage.

    8. Skills and Competencies

• Good practical and technical skills.
• Basic ICT troubleshooting skills.
• Basic networking knowledge.
• Good understanding of science laboratory equipment and procedures.
• Strong organisational and record-keeping skills.
• Good inventory and resource management skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Ability to work safely with chemicals, laboratory equipment, and ICT equipment.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work effectively with teachers and students.
• Strong responsibility, integrity, and professionalism.

   9. Professional Conduct and Safeguarding

• Maintain professional conduct and appropriate boundaries with students.
• Follow all school safeguarding and child protection policies.
• Maintain confidentiality where required.
• Ensure laboratories are operated in a safe and responsible manner.
• Promote a safe, respectful, clean, and professional learning environment.
• Safeguard school equipment, materials, and other resources.

   10. Working Relationships

The Laboratory Technician will work closely with:

• Head Teacher / Deputy Head
• Head of Science Department
• Science teachers
• Computer Studies teachers
• Students
• School management
• ICT service providers and suppliers where required

Join Our Team and Inspire Learning Through Science & Technology

Are you passionate about science, technology, and creating safe, well equipped learning environments? Join Kuwala Christian Girls School and play an important role in supporting practical learning, innovation, and the effective use of our science and computer laboratories.

This is an opportunity for someone who not only has strong technical skills, but also enjoys inspiring students to become curious, explore new ideas, and develop a deeper interest in science and technology.

Bring your technical skills, attention to detail, and passion for inspiring the next generation. Apply today!