Typical duties include:

1. Preparing materials and equipment

Set up tools, machinery, and materials before lessons.

Prepare wood, metal, plastics, electronics kits, or textiles for student projects.

Maintain stock of materials.

2. Maintaining workshop equipment

Maintain and repair machines like:

Pillar drills

Band saws

Laser cutters

3D printers

Sharpen tools and keep equipment in safe working condition.

3. Health & Safety

Ensure workshop safety standards are met.

Carry out risk assessments.

Check that machines and safety equipment are working properly.

Manage COSHH materials (chemicals, glues, finishes).

4. Supporting teachers and students

Help teachers during practical lessons.

Demonstrate safe use of tools if required.

Support students with technical problems.

5. Ordering and inventory

Order materials and tools.

Manage budgets and supplier relationships.

Keep inventory of stock.

Skills Schools Look For

Common requirements include:

Practical workshop skills (woodworking, metalwork, electronics, CAD)

Knowledge of health & safety regulations

Ability to maintain machinery

Organisational skills

Good communication with teachers and students

IT skills for CAD/CAM, 3D printing, laser cutters

Knowledge of Design and Technology curriculum is helpful