Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland
Ko te whare Pūtaiao | The Faculty of Science brings together 10 diverse schools and departments to provide outstanding quality teaching and research opportunities. Being the leading science Faculty in New Zealand and is one of the largest in Australasia, it undertakes world-class research across the physical, biological, and computational sciences. More than 8,000 students' study in our schools and departments, learning from internationally renowned lecturers. We strive to provide a Faculty that reflects the demographics of our student base and Aotearoa. Our staff and students can connect with our: Rainbow and Women in Science networks, Parenting support, our Waipapa Marae and our flagship Tuākana Māori and Pacific support programme
Job Description
Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
Perched on cliffs above the sea at the Leigh Marine Campus and reporting to the Business Operations Manager, the role of the Senior Laboratory Technician will be responsible for managing the day-to-day laboratory operations and provide research support for the Institute of Marine Science. You will become part of a passionate and innovative team and proactively support staff and students with laboratory requirements, maintain laboratory equipment and ensure safety and regulatory requirements are met.
Key responsibilities include (not limited to):
- Manage the day-to-day operations of the laboratory with a strong focus on health and safety
- Ensure reliable and efficient procedures are in place for the use of laboratory equipment
- Induct and train staff and students on the use of the laboratory – including safety, compliance and fire regulations
- Provide technical and analytical support for marine research
- Ensure chemicals, consumables and equipment are available and managed efficiently and safely
- Respond to ad-hoc requests as and when required
This role is based at the Leigh Marine Campus and is a full-time permanent role (37.5 hrs per week – Monday to Friday) *please note that occasional after-hours/weekend work may be required*
Remuneration: $72,000 - $84,709 (depending on level of experience)
For more detailed information, please refer to the Position Description
He kōrero mōu | About you
You will have proven experience managing a laboratory and maintaining laboratory equipment, ideally holding a relevant qualification or experience in Marine Science, Biology, Biochemistry or Environmental Chemistry. You will be experienced in developing and documenting laboratory techniques and processes and can influence others to follow regulatory requirements. You will have a passion and interest in science and enjoy supporting research that contributes to the protection and understanding of the marine environment.
In addition, you will be committed to quality and effectiveness in teaching; with the ability to be proactive and take initiative. You will have excellent oral and written communication skills and have excellent judgement and decision-making skills.
Essential/Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree qualification in Marine Science, Biology, Biochemistry, Environmental Chemistry or related field
- Experience with Mass spectrometry, TOC techniques, nutrient analysis would be preferred
- Minimum 4 years’ experience working in chemistry or environmental chemistry laboratories
- In-depth knowledge and understanding of safe-use, handling of chemicals and regulatory compliance and maintaining chemical registers
- Experience in explaining and resolving difficult technical issues and working with chemical inventory database systems
- Good understanding of modern laboratory management practices
- Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate clearly and to effectively disseminate knowledge to multiple stakeholder groups
- Strong time management, organisational skills and high attention to detail
- Experience with the design and running of experiments and associated experimental techniques
- Ability to analyse results, troubleshoot issues, and support research
- Strong computer literacy and proficient in Microsoft Office
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer
The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university and maintains significant computational, laboratory and analytic facilities. Escape to Leigh, where pristine coastlines, vibrant marine life, a tranquil community and a peaceful, small-town atmosphere offer the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment through:
- Flexible employment practices (including working from home, flexible hours)
- Up to 6.75% company superannuation scheme
- A competitive salary with five weeks’ annual leave
In addition, we also offer career development programmes, discounted car parking, a generous parental leave allowance, childcare, and a number of other discounts on internal and external services.
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply
Applications must be submitted online, by the closing date of 20th August 2025 to be considered. We may close this advert early if we have a large number of applications. Please include your cover letter and your CV highlighting how you can meet the skills and experiences detailed above.
Please reach out to Boyd Taylor on boyd.taylor@auckland.ac.nz for a confidential conversation. Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.
**We reserve the right to close applications early if a suitable candidate is found**
Additional Information
Equity
The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment. For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz