About The Bower Reuse & Repair Centre

Since 1998, The Bower Reuse & Repair Centre has been a leading Sydney-based environmental charity committed to reducing landfill, saving resources, and supporting vulnerable communities. Our Repair Shops give affordable, professional repairs that help extend the life of items and reduce unnecessary consumption.

The Opportunity

We are looking for a technically-minded Audio & Electrical Volunteer to take a leadership role in our testing department. This is a vital position within the organization; because we deal with a high volume of donated electronics, we need a specialist who can distinguish between a vintage hi-fi gem and a standard appliance, ensuring everything we sell is safe, functional, and accurately represented.

Key Duties

In this role, you will oversee the lifecycle of donated electronics through carrying out the following responsibilities:

1. Specialized Audio Testing: Independently testing and troubleshooting hi-fi equipment, including amplifiers, turntables, speakers and receivers.

2. Electrical Safety Screening: Performing functional checks on a wide range of household electrical items to prepare them for the retail floor.

3. Team Colaboration: working alongside our existing small team of volunteers to streamline the testing process and maintain a consistent flow of stock.

4. Quality Assurance: Assessing the condition of items, identifying necessary minor repairs, and providing pricing recommendations based on technical value and market demand.

Skills and Experience Required

1. Hi-Fi Expertise: Deep experience in testing and handling audio/visual equipment. You should be familiar with common technical faults and audio performance standards.

2. Electrical Literacy: A strong general knowledge of consumer electronics and electrical goods common to the second-hand market.

3. Team Player: The ability to work alongside other volunteers to maintain a positive, productive workshop environment.

4. Autonomy: A high degree of independence and the confidence to make decisions regarding the safety and resale potential of donated items.

The Impact & Benefits

Your technical skills have a direct, measurable impact on the environment. By certifying that electrical goods are safe for a second life, you are keeping heavy metals and complex plastics out of landfill and most importantly keeping usable items in circulation and giving them a second home. The work you do will also contribute towards:

1. Increasing Local Sustainability: Be a key player in the "repair revolution" and the circular economy.

2. Community Connection: Join a passionate team of environmentalists, makers, and technicians.

3. Professional Environment: Work in a supportive setting where your specialized technical knowledge is highly valued and respected.

How to Apply

Interested? We’d love to hear from you.

1. Send us a copy of your resume

2. Tell us about your electrical qualifications, experience, and availability.

3. We’ll be in touch to discuss next steps and invite you for an orientation.