Apprentice Technician in Material Characterisation – Queen’s University, Belfast
- Posted by Fearghal Quinn
- Posted in Careers Blog
The role is to support technical colleagues in the delivery of a diverse range of practical experiments and projects in Material Characterisation within the School of Natural and Built Environment (SNBE). As our apprentice technician you will attend Belfast Metropolitan College part-time, to successfully complete a Level 3 Diploma in Applied Sciences, with Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities. You will develop relevant competencies and expertise over the three-year duration of the apprenticeship programme through in-house training, completion of professional/academic qualifications and tailored support and mentoring.
Major aspects of the training include the preparation of material samples for practical experiments; use of relevant laboratory equipment and learning how to carry out calibrations of the equipment, in addition to assisting with set up of practical experiments including preparation of materials. Your will work alongside members of the School academic and technical staff and contribute to the integrity of laboratory operations and comply with all Health & Safety requirements.
Further information about the School of Natural and Built Environment can be found here: https://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/NBE/
About the person:
You must be able to meet the following requirements:
- Hold or be about to obtain a minimum of 5 GCSE’s A*-C (9-4) or equivalent (e.g. NVQ level 2) to include Maths, English and a relevant subject(s) (e.g. Physics, Design & Technology).
- Proven basic knowledge of regulations and procedures, including Health & Safety requirements.
- Demonstrable knowledge and interest in the subject of Engineering.
It would be useful if you meet the following desirable requirements:
- Hold a minimum of GCSE Grade A*-C (9-4) or Level 1 Essential Skills in Information & Communication Technology (ICT).
- Ability to demonstrate communication skills appropriate to a professional working environment.
- Evidence of developing/improving/enhancing skills through practical application.
- Ability to demonstrate a methodical and logical approach to tasks.
- Ability to work on own initiative and to prioritise tasks.
- Able to demonstrate working successfully as part of a team.
To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information.
Fixed term contract posts are available for the stated period in the first instance but in particular circumstances may be renewed or made permanent subject to availability of funding.
What we offer:
Beyond a competitive salary, the University offers an attractive benefits package including a holiday entitlement of up to 8.4 weeks a year, pension schemes and development opportunities. We support staff wellbeing with flexible working options, work-life balance initiatives and support for physical and mental health. You can find more detail on all of this and more at https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/HumanResources/pay-reward-and-benefits/reward-and-recognition/
Queen’s University is committed to promoting equality of opportunity to all. We subscribe to Equality Charter Marks such as the Diversity Charter Mark NI and Athena Swan and have established staff networks such as iRise (Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and International Staff Network) and PRISM (LGBTQ+) which help us progress equality.
For further information on our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, please visit https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/HumanResources/diversity-and-inclusion/