About ELTHAM College
ELTHAM College is an independent co-educational school in Nillumbik Shire, northeast of Melbourne.
ELTHAM College grows the heart and mind of each child. We believe that school is a daring adventure where
children learn to think for themselves, in preparation for a future of exciting possibilities. Located in an
extraordinary environment, students experience an engaging, rigorous world-ready curriculum while being
supported with warmth, care, and respect.
The College has a strong commitment to technology. All applicants should be able to demonstrate their desire
to maximize the use of technology in an educational environment
ELTHAM College is committed to global awareness and global citizenship.
Purpose of the Role
The Laboratory Assistant reports to the Head of Science and works closely with the Laboratory Technician. This
role supports the operation of the College Observatory, and the effective delivery of STEM programs at by
providing practical, logistical and administrative assistance to teachers and students. The role ensures laboratory
environments, equipment and materials are prepared, maintained, safe and compliant with relevant regulations.
The Laboratory Assistant contributes to a positive learning environment aligned with the College's values and
commitment to child safety.
Main Duties/Responsibilities
Laboratory & Classroom Support
* Prepare equipment, chemicals, materials and solutions for practical classes across relevant STEM
disciplines.
* Assist in the setup, delivery and pack-up of experiments, demonstrations and practical activities.
* Support teachers and students with correct handling and use of equipment during practical sessions.
* Prepare and trial new practical activities as requested by teaching staff.
Observatory
* Monitor the operation of the College's Observatory
* Organise the servicing and repair of the robotic telescopes in the College's Observatory as required
* Liaise with various networks in the Astronomy and Robotic Telescopes field (e.g. Photon Ranch)
Resource & Equipment Management
* Maintain laboratory stock levels, including ordering, receiving and storing chemicals, consumables and
equipment.
* Manage loan systems for science equipment and audiovisual resources.
* Conduct routine checks, cleaning and calibration of laboratory equipment and glassware.
* Assist with minor repairs and arrange servicing of equipment where required.
Safety & Compliance
* Ensure laboratories, preparation rooms and storage areas are clean, organised and secure.
* Label, store and dispose of chemicals and biological materials in accordance with legislative requirements
and safety standards.
* Maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS), chemical registers and compliance documentation.
* Monitor safety signage, PPE availability and emergency equipment (e.g., eyewash stations, fire
extinguishers).
* Report hazards and incidents promptly, supporting ongoing risk management processes.
Administrative Support
* Assist with planning and coordination of practical class requirements.
* Maintain accurate records relating to stock control, incident reporting and compliance.
* Liaise with teaching staff, the Laboratory Manager and external suppliers as required.
Selection Criteria
Experience
* Demonstrated experience working in laboratory environments in education, research or industry
(desirable)
* Preparing, setting up and supporting laboratory practical activities.
* Managing laboratory stock, equipment maintenance and chemical handling.
* Applying safe work practices in a STEM environment.
Skills and Attributes
* Knowledge of astronomical instruments (including but not limited to telescopes, equatorial mounts, drive
systems, electronic and filters)
* High level of numeracy, literacy, robotic and computer skills (knowledge of Python is desirable)
* Knowledge of chemical handling, storage and disposal standards.
* Willingness to upskill in the science and operational practices of the College Observatory.
* Capacity to prioritise tasks and work both independently and as part of a team.
* Effective interpersonal and communication skills when supporting staff and students.
* Understanding of occupational health and safety principles within a laboratory context.
* Demonstrated initiative, problem-solving and willingness to learn.
* Commitment to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.
* Demonstrated knowledge of child safe practices including reporting requirements.
* Commitment to ongoing professional development.
Qualifications and Employer Requirements
* A tertiary qualification in Science (Physics preferred) and/or Engineering
* Clearance to work with children - Current Working with Children's Check (WWCC)
* Completion of Protecting Children – Mandatory Reporting and Other obligations (training provided by DoE
Victoria) as required – accessed via ELTHAM College
* Completion of on the job training in Risk Assessment procedures, use of Material Safety Data Sheets,
Chemwatch software and OH&S legislation (provided by ELTHAM College)
* National Police Check (within the last 6 months)
Organisational Accountabilities
ELTHAM College is committed to the health, safety and wellbeing of its staff and students. ELTHAM College and its
staff must comply with a range of statutory requirements, including child safe, equal opportunity, occupational
health and safety, privacy and trade practice. ELTHAM College also expects staff to comply with its policies and
procedures, which relate to statutory requirements and our day-to-day operations.
Child Safety at ELTHAM College
All staff at ELTHAM College are responsible for providing a safe environment and the protection of children and
young people within our care, including promoting physical, emotional and cultural safety. All staff are responsible
for reporting information about suspected child abuse. All staff share in the responsibility for the prevention and
detection of child abuse and promptly raise any issues or concerns about a child's safety. All staff are required to
follow the School's Child Safe policies and Child Safety Code of Conduct.
ELTHAM College takes a zero-tolerance approach to child abuse and is fully committed to ensuring that its
strategies, policies, procedures, and practices meet all Child Safe Standards as specified in Ministerial Order No.
All applicants should refer to our Child Safety Policy and Code of Conduct found at Policies - Eltham
College.