Case studies: Senior laboratory technician: Chris

Chris took several short courses in health and safety, chemistry laboratory technician work, salter's chemisty and management and now works as a senior laboratory technician...

I left school and went directly into work as a trainee technician with a chemistry department. I undertook a range of manufacturers' courses on specific equipment to enable me to maintain a range of laboratory equipment. I have also undertaken several short courses in health and safety, chemistry laboratory technician work, Salter's Chemistry and management.

I am currently a senior laboratory technician at a grammar school, being promoted to this role after joining the school as a part-time technician. Prior to this I worked for the University of London where I worked as a teaching laboratory technician.

It is possible to enter the role of a teaching technician without a scientific background but those with this background will be able to take more responsibility. I am unusual as a man in a predominantly female career, although in our school many technicians across the department are male. The school is well resourced and our technicians are able to focus on supporting one or two subject areas.

I particularly enjoy working as part of a team when developing ideas and being able to contribute to the discussions with the teachers using my extensive experience; many courses are rapidly changing at the moment resulting in more of this aspect in my work.

As the senior technician within the science department I am responsible for ordering materials and ensuring these are sourced for the best price. I also supervise other technicians as needed across departments. I enjoy problem solving and have an interest in the technical/equipment side of the job. I also carry out routine work preparing materials for classes and supporting teachers in the classroom.