Science manufacturing technician

Reference Number: ST0250

Details of standard

Occupation

Science manufacturing technician

Level

3

Duration

• minimum duration 18-months
• typical duration 27-30-months

Occupational profile

Science manufacturing technicians work in a wide range of companies, including, but not exclusively, chemical, primary and secondary pharmaceutical, biotechnology, formulated products and nuclear manufacturing. A science manufacturing technician will operate the systems and equipment, involved in the production of products. They may work in varied conditions including wearing specialist safety equipment, shift work and on sites running 365 day operations. Many companies operate under highly regulated conditions and a premium is placed on appropriate attitudes and behaviours to ensure employees comply with organisational safety and regulatory requirements.

Science manufacturing technicians are expected to work both individually and as part of a manufacturing team. They are able to work with minimum supervision, taking responsibility for the quality and accuracy of the work they undertake. They are proactive in finding solutions to problems and identifying areas for improving their work environment.

Occupational skills and knowledge

1. Science manufacturing technicians are able to:
2. Both independently and within a team start-up a manufacturing batch or continuous process in line with appropriate Standard Operating Procedures, understanding the principles of operation.
3. Both independently and within a team operate a manufacturing batch or continuous process in line with appropriate Standard Operating Procedures, understanding the principles of operation.
4. Both independently and within a team shut down/complete a run of the manufacturing batch or continuous process in line with appropriate Standard Operating Procedures, understanding the principles of operation.
5. Work safely in a science manufacturing environment, understanding personal responsibility for Health, Safety and the Environment and principles of risk management
6. Understand and follow quality procedures to meet the requirements of quality standards relevant to the workplace.
7. Understand the internal and external regulatory environment pertinent to the sector and the employer and comply with regulations proficiently.
8. Control and monitor a process or plant and equipment, effectively, efficiently and securely, and resolve problems or correct abnormal conditions.
9. Complete documentation relevant to the manufacturing process including relevant calculations.
10. Understand the business environment in which the company operates including personal role within the organisation, ethical practice and codes of conduct.
11. Participate in continuous performance improvement.
12. Develop and apply theoretical knowledge of relevant science and technology and its application to the required sector and job role.

Behaviours

12. Science manufacturing technicians are able to demonstrate the required attitudes, behaviours and interpersonal skills associated with the professional workplace including:

• communicate effectively using a full range of skills: speaking; listening; writing; body language; presentation
• work and interact effectively within a team
• work independently and take responsibility for initiating and completing tasks
• understand impact of work on others, especially where related to diversity and equality
• time management and ability to complete work to schedule
• ability to handle change and respond to change management processes.

Qualifications

Apprentices without level 2 English and mathematics will need to achieve this level prior to completion of their apprenticeship.

Apprentices must complete a level 3 or 4 qualification in a science or technology discipline relevant to their occupation, which is recognised for professional registration by RSciTech or Eng Tech, prior to completing the apprenticeship’s end-point assessment. Example qualifications are detailed on the assessment plan for this standard.

Link to professional registration

The Science Council for Registered Science Technician (RSciTech). Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship and upon receipt of the apprenticeship certificate, individuals are eligible to apply for RSciTech through a shortened application route. Individuals also need to be a member of a professional body that is licensed by the Science Council to be awarded this status. Further information is on the Science Council’s website.

This standard meets the professional standards of the Engineering Council for registration as an Engineering Technician (EngTech). Registration is subject to candidates successfully completing the appropriate learning, developing the appropriate competence, and undergoing professional review.

Review date – June 2018

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