Job description Job title: DT Technician Grade: Grade: H4 Scale point range: points 6-9 Salary Range: £25,183 - 26,409 Hours / weeks: 32.5 hours / week, term time only plus INSET (39 weeks) Start date: Asap Contract type: Permanent Reports to: Curriculum Lead - DT The post We are looking for a motivated and flexible individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment. You will play a key role in the Design and Technology department with a range of responsibilities. We believe that fostering and investing in our people is key, that's why as a DT technician you will be given the opportunity to develop; whether that's through new skills, additional responsibilities or career progression. We are committed to helping you achieve your career goals. Your dedication and hard work will be recognized and rewarded at Westfield Academy. As part of your benefits package, the post comes with the opportunity to progress through the teaching training route with Westfield providing not only time but financial support. Job purpose To support DT teachers in preparing for lessons and practicals. To support students during their DT lessons and practicals. To contribute to the overall ethos, work and aims of the Academy. Main responsibilities Liaise with the Lead of DT / Head of Faculty at all times. Maintaining all equipment where possible (i.e., lathes, mills, brazing hearth, pillar drills, all types of saws, grinder, buffer, planer, linisher, all and tools and power tools, CAD / CAM router, midimills, laser cutter, vinyl cutter and PCB lab). Checking the condition of equipment and stock of materials on a regular basis. Ensuring that Health & Safety regulations are adhered to by checking use and condition of machines / equipment / workshops / safe handling / storage / correct disposal of materials / chemicals. Preparing materials for all Product Design classes (KS3, KS4 & KS5). Desirable skills using CAD software would be an advantage – Google Sketch up, Solid Works and On Shape. Desirable CAM skills - 3d printer, cnc machines, laser cutter etc. Assisting teachers with KS3, KS4 and KS5 Product Design classes. Advising and assisting teachers with the practical aspects of subjects.Taking initiative in organising the workshop, maintaining an efficient workspace, and suggesting improvements where needed. Assisting GCSE and A-Level students with project work.Actively guiding students on safe tool use, material selection, and problem-solving techniques to build their confidence and capability. Designing product for projects and building equipment for STEM activities (where applicable).Supporting the use of new technologies and recommending emerging equipment/software that could enhance student learning. Assisting with displays, student showcases, and events to help promote the subject and celebrate student work. Ordering all faculty equipment / materials through a centralised computerised stock list, including updating stock list and sourcing most cost effective suppliers. Ensuring that all equipment is returned after classes and that workshops are tidy and tools are safely locked away. Ensuring that all apparatus and equipment is maintained to a safe and appropriate standard.Emphasising the responsible management of materials to minimise waste and align with sustainability initiatives in the department. Carrying out minor repairs and making the Head of Faculty or Lead in DT aware if more complex repairs need to be done. Giving technical and Health & Safety advice to teachers and students. Carrying out risk assessments for technician, teachers & student activities. Assisting in practical classes & carrying out demonstrations. Ensuring that the deadlines are met when assisting manufacturing for coursework. Invigilation as and when necessary. Other To undertake First Aid duties where applicable. Attending Academy INSET sessions, events, and meetings as required. To ensure a safe and tidy working environment is maintained at all times. To contribute to and support the overall aims and ethos of the Academy. To be aware of and comply with policies and procedures, relating to child protection, safeguarding, pastoral issues, health and safety, security, confidentiality and data protection – reporting all concerns to the appropriate person. It should be noted that the above list of principal duties and responsibilities is not necessarily a complete statement. Alterations and further duties may be necessary and will be subject to consultation. The post hold is expected to accept any reasonable changes to his / her job description. The post holder is expected to be able to adapt his / her work to address the specific needs of the pupils. The duties and responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present. This role will be reviewed annually as part of the performance appraisal process and the post holder is expected to accept any reasonable alterations that may from time to time be necessary. Westfield Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of Children and Young people. To meet this responsibility, we follow a rigorous selection process. All successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check. Person specification Attributes Essential (or expected to train / qualify to that standard) Desirable (or expected to train/qualify to that standard) General Polite & courteous Confidentiality, probity & integrity Excellent time management Strong verbal & written communication skills Proactive Qualifications & training 5 GCSEs or equivalent Experience in relevant discipline or related qualification Desire to do NQT in 2-3 years time frame and opportunities for CPD to stay updated on safety regulations and industry advancements. Relevant experience Experience of working in a school setting Experience of working in a workshop environment Experience of working with young people Proven track record of working within a team Excellent IT skills (Google, email, internet, etc) Knowledge of MIS database Flexible working and ability to multitask Understanding and sensitive to others CAD software – Google Sketch Up, Solid Works & On Shape CAM - 3D printer, Laser cutter, CNC machinery Knowledge, skills & abilities Ability to prioritise effectively Ability to relate to people on all levels Work constructively as part of a team, understanding school roles & responsibilities and your own position within these Ability to identify own and others’ training & development needs & cooperate with appropriate individuals to address these Ability to relate well to children and adults Good organisation and personal management skills Understanding health, safety & welfare regulations and best practice Knowledge of particular subject / technical area Knowledge of relevant policies / codes of practice / legislation Ability and enthusiasm to work jointly with colleagues Personal qualities Willingness to work flexibly when required Strong people skills, fair-minded and able to communicate well to a variety of audiences Team player, willing to share in key decision making