Technical Manager: School of Physics and Astronomy

Job Purpose

In this key role, the post holder will provide direction and professional support within assigned areas of responsibility to effectively manage the technical activities within the School of Physics and Astronomy.
This will include the management and deployment of an effective team of technicians to support the strategic aims of the school’s teaching and research, requiring close liaison with the Head of School. To help engender a safe working culture by providing oversight, advice and guidance on managing and monitoring issues relating to health and safety within a school containing many risks and hazards including Laser Safety and Radiation Protection matters. To work with staff to increase their understanding and compliance with H&S legislation, School/ College/ University policy and procedures together with Health & Safety Executive (HSE) and Environmental Agency HMIP) regulations, including specialist waste disposal. The post holder will also oversee all building project, maintenance, services, space allocation and security related matters for the school, liaising closely with the Estates Office and delegating duties as appropriate to the Building Services technician. The nature of the job requires a large degree of initiative and collaboration.
The post holder will input into wider College activities/procedures through close cooperation with other EPS technical managers, using the school’s technical expertise to provide advice in relevant areas.

Person Specification

• Qualified to degree level or equivalent, preferably in a related subject; or have acquired substantial equivalent experience
• Understanding of the principles behind good staff management. Previous experience of managing staff.
• Comprehensive experience of managing H&S together with knowledge of relevant H&S policies and legislation. Preferably NEBOSH General Certificate qualified (or equivalent) or willing and able to attain. Radiation and laser protection experience highly desirable.
• •Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead and gain buy-in from colleagues. Able to act assertively and decisively when required
• Good negotiation skills and the ability to work well with different groups of people including working with and influencing senior management.
• The post holder should possess and demonstrate good relevant technical knowledge
• Able to analyse, plan and co-ordinate resolution to problems, service implementation and technical support issues.
• Able to develop policy/procedures/plans and ensure implementation / compliance.
• To continually monitor effectiveness and be committed to achieving improvements, being adaptable / flexible in periods of changing priorities and situations
• Good IT skills including word processing, email and establishing and manipulating spreadsheets / databases.
• Experience in representing client interests in building projects