Science Laboratory Technician  
Permanent, Part-Time (0.76 FTE), starting August 2024 
 
St. Michaels University School (SMUS) is seeking a Science Laboratory Technician to join our dynamic and high-functioning Science department. Reporting to the Head of the Science Department, the Science Laboratory Technician is responsible for the safety of science teaching and student learning and providing support/technical services for all senior school science teachers. This position also supports AP and Pre-AP students with independent science research. 

Work Schedule: 
Hours of work are normally Monday to Friday on days when school is in session, as directed by the Head of Department. Vacation time will be taken at school closures such as Spring, Summer, and Winter break. 

Responsibilities include: 
Preparation for laboratory work:  
Prepare and set up chemicals and equipment for use in science laboratory classes.  
Check, modify, develop experiments as requested.  
Perform experiments as necessary prior to setting up labs.  
Dispose and treat waste chemicals and preserved biological specimens as necessary.  
Quality control of chemicals (standardization for experimentation).  
Preparing and/or dissecting embalmed or fresh tissue samples.  
Caring for fresh and preserved biological specimens (fish, animals, cultures, and plants). 
 
Inventory, record keeping and procurement:  
Keep inventory records of chemicals, equipment, and supplies.  
Label and code chemicals. 
Maintain an inventory of the chemicals that may be contained in the waste discharged to the sewers.  
Maintain written records to show due diligence regarding site activities and to demonstrate that requirements of the CRD Laboratory Code of Practice have been met.   
Order and maintains supplies, including purchase of chemicals for all Senior School science departments.  
Supports ordering of textbooks in collaboration with Head of Department prior to start of academic year.  
Receiving of goods and invoices.   
 
Safety:  
Ensure that there are no science-related hazards or unsafe practices pertaining to the science department.  
Regular testing and maintaining of emergency safety showers and eye wash stations.  
Ensure compliance with WHMIS regulations regarding labelling, handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials.  
Follows appropriate protocols in dealing with hazardous materials.  
 
Classroom support:  
Assist in laboratory classes as requested by teacher.  
Research and test new demonstrations, experiments, and new products under direction of Faculty.  
Supervises students working in labs when a teacher is unavailable.  
Maintains absence coverage schedule for teachers.  
Maintain bulletin boards for promoting science (Current events, Nobel prize winners etc.).  
Work directly with students to supervise internal assessment labs, projects, and other labs (such as science fair and AP projects).  
 
Maintenance:  
Keep laboratories and preparation and storage areas orderly.  
In collaboration with the science teacher, requests maintenance support for the building’s plumbing, heating, electricity, ventilation, gas supply, furniture, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, printers, IT problems, recycling and cleaning equipment and coordinating logistics with the maintenance staff. 

Experience and Qualifications: 
A bachelor’s degree in science, with a certificate from a recognized Laboratory Assistant program or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.  
BC teaching certificate is an asset.  
At least 2 years of lab experience preferred, including ordering of supplies.  
Experience handling, storing, and disposing of hazardous chemicals.  
Experience mentoring students in a lab setting.  
Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Certificate.  
Class 5 license and own vehicle preferred.  
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with teachers, students, staff, suppliers, and service providers both verbally and written.  
Organized with the ability to work under deadlines and with minimal supervision, handling competing priorities.  
Demonstrated current knowledge of relevant core laboratory techniques.  
Knowledge of legislations and government policies and procedures related to laboratory operations, particularly relating to schools.  
Demonstrated conflict resolution, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.  
Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position (Must be able to lift at least 50lb).  
Knowledge of chemical storage classifications and incompatibilities.  
Knowledge of chemical waste disposal and treatment in keeping with Canadian Transport of Dangerous Goods requirements.  
Demonstrated knowledge of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals.  
Knowledge of laboratory health and safety protocol. 

Salary Range:  
Annual salary range: $52,969 – $62,299. Salary to be pro-rated for FTE. 

Criminal Record Check: 
Must pass and maintain a clear Solicitor General criminal record check for the purpose of working with children. 
Application Details: 
Please apply by 2:00 pm Tuesday, May 7, 2024. 
 
About St. Michaels University School: 
Located in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, St. Michaels University School (SMUS) is a Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 day and boarding school with a global reputation for academic excellence. 
 
Our students from over 30 countries all over the world have opportunities in academics, athletics, arts, leadership, service and outdoor education, and are inspired by an extraordinary staff committed to character growth and preparing students for what lies ahead in life. The school’s Mission shapes these endeavours: Our school seeks the excellence in all of us, with passion and compassion. We are a community shaped by the pursuit of truth and goodness, providing outstanding preparation for life. At St. Michaels University School, we seek to employ and empower individuals who wish to forge impactful relationships and careers that place our students at the centre. We firmly believe that expanding our diversity while adjusting our practice will lead to becoming the community we envision – a place where staff and students share a sense that they fully belong.