Overview
GEMS WORLD ACADEMY – ABU DHABI
Job Description
At GEMS World Academy, Abu Dhabi, we pride ourselves on creating an inclusive, dynamic learning community where every student feels valued, challenged, and supported. Situated on Al Reem Island, our school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework alongside elements of the British curriculum, providing students with a well-rounded and globally focused education.
We are inviting applications from experienced and dedicated Design Technology Technicians to join our exceptional team from August 2026.
Job Purpose:
Provide technical and practical support to teaching staff and students within the Creative Arts & Technology department. Maintain a safe, organized, and fully functional workshop environment. Support the delivery of the IB (PYP/MYP/DP), British Curriculum, and NCfE through preparation, maintenance, and in-class assistance.
Key Responsibilities
Health & Safety & Compliance
- Adhere to organizational policies and procedures relating to administration, operations, health & safety, and inventory management.
- Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations, including risk assessments, COSHH, and safe storage of materials.
- Maintain accurate records of tools, equipment, and materials, including stock control and ordering where required.
Workshop & Equipment Maintenance
- Ensure all workshops, tools, machinery, and materials are safe, well-maintained, and ready for use.
- Carry out routine maintenance, servicing, and minor repairs of workshop machinery and hand tools (wood, metal, plastic processing equipment).
- Set up and support the use of hardware, machinery, and ICT equipment for demonstrations and student use.
Teaching & Learning Support
- Prepare and set up tools, equipment, and materials in advance of lessons to support effective teaching and learning across IB, British, and NCfE programs.
- Assist teachers during practical sessions, supporting students with designing and making activities.
- Manufacture and adapt teaching aids, prototypes, jigs, and fixtures as required.
- Prepare materials, components, and resource packs for projects and lessons.
Resource & Environment Management
- Support the organization and storage of student work, materials, and resources, including building or adapting storage solutions where needed.
- Assist in creating displays and maintaining an engaging learning environment.
- Support departmental projects, exhibitions, and school-wide initiatives as required.
Additional Duties
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Undertake any additional duties as reasonably assigned by the school or the Head of the Arabic & STEM Department (or relevant line manager).
Skills
Qualifications & Experience
Essential:
- Relevant qualification or certification in Design & Technology, Engineering, Workshop Practice, or a related field.
- Proven experience working with workshop machinery and tools (woodworking, metalworking, plastics).
- Strong understanding of health and safety practices within a workshop environment (COSHH, risk assessments, safe machine use).
- Practical, hands-on approach with the ability to manufacture and repair items.
- Good organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with staff and students.
- ICT proficiency, including MS Office and willingness to learn new systems (e.g., CAD/CAM software, laser cutters, CNC machines).
- High attention to detail, particularly regarding safety and preparation.
- Ability to work independently and use initiative.
Desirable:
- Experience working in a school or educational environment, preferably within an IB, British, or NCfE curriculum school.
- Knowledge or experience with CAD/CAM technologies, 3D printing, laser cutting, or CNC equipment.
- Experience with educational robotics and physical computing platforms such as Arduino, Smart City systems, Micro:bit, or similar school-based technologies.
- First Aid certification.
- Experience supporting students in practical learning environments.
GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of its students and staff. A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is a pre-requisite for all appointments.
Preferred Candidate
Mid Career – Over 2 years experience
About GEMS Education
Trusted for over 55 years and now a third generation education family, GEMS Education began in a single school room in Dubai. Today, we have the privilege of educating over 190,000 students from over 176 countries through GEMS owned and managed schools globally; over 270,000 students access resources through our services division; and we will impact 20 million by 2020 students through the initiatives of our Charity partner Varkey Foundation.
