Laboratory & Field Technician

Geotechnics Ltd; Masterton District; On-site; NZD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Geotechnics Ltd, a New Zealand geotechnical testing specialist, is seeking a practical laboratory and field technician for an 8-month fixed-term contract to support a major Waihi project. This role is primarily laboratory based with regular fieldwork. You will conduct soil, aggregate and pavement testing, record results, and assist with site investigations, under supervision. Training will be provided for the right person, and travel to construction sites is required.

Qualifications

• Willing to learn and follow procedures.
• Safety-focused and detail-oriented.
• Able to work independently and in a small team.
• Physically fit for manual handling and outdoor work.
• Willing to travel to construction sites.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and test soil, aggregate and pavement samples.
• Record results accurately and maintain equipment and work areas.
• Conduct field tests using Scala, NDM, Clegg and shear vane.
• Assist with sampling, test pits and site investigations.
• Travel to construction sites and work outdoors in varying conditions.
• Follow standards, procedures and health and safety requirements.

Skills

Safety-conscious

Detail oriented

Clear communicator

Independent worker

Team player

Physically fit

Tools

Scala

NDM

Clegg hammer

Shear vane

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 16th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Geotechnics Ltd is a specialist materials testing company providing laboratory and field testing services to the geotechnical, civil and environmental engineering industries. With offices in Auckland, Pukekohe, Hamilton, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Nelson and Christchurch, we support projects of all sizes across New Zealand.

We believe you should enjoy the work you do and the people you work with. We promote an open, collaborative culture where innovation, learning and continuous improvement are encouraged.

The opportunity

We are seeking a practical, reliable and motivated Laboratory & Field Technicians for a 8-month Fixed Term Contract to assist on a large project based in beautiful Waihi at the foot of the Coromandel Pensula.

This is a primarily laboratory-based role, with regular fieldwork supporting geotechnical investigations and construction projects. You will be responsible for carrying out accurate laboratory testing on soil, aggregate and pavement samples, as well as undertaking a range of field tests and site investigations.

Training will be provided for the right person, although previous experience in a laboratory, geotechnical, civil or construction environment would be an advantage.

What you’ll be doing

• Preparing and testing soil, aggregate and pavement samples, including grading, moisture content, compaction, CBR and plasticity testing.
• Accurately record results and maintain laboratory equipment and work areas.
• Conduct field testing using Scala, NDM, Clegg and shear vane equipment.
• Assisting with sampling, test pits, hand augering and general site investigations.
• Traveling to construction sites and working outdoors in varying conditions.
• Following relevant standards, company procedures and health and safety requirements while maintaining high standards of accuracy and quality.

What you’ll bring

• Practical, dependable and willing to learn.
• Safety-conscious and committed to following procedures.
• Detail-oriented, accurate and well organised.
• A clear and open communicator.
• Comfortable working independently and as part of a small team.
• Willing to pitch in, support colleagues and take responsibility for completing tasks.
• Physically fit and comfortable with manual handling and outdoor work.
• Able to work in a range of weather and site conditions.

The following experience would be beneficial to have, however, full training will be provided for the right applicant:

• Previous laboratory, geotechnical, civil or construction experience
• Familiarity with soil, aggregate or pavement testing
• Experience working with testing equipment or conducting field investigations

At Geotechnics, you'll receive ongoing support from an experienced team. This is an excellent opportunity to build technical skills while contributing to projects that make a real difference to communities across New Zealand.

We also offer:

• Ongoing training and professional development
• A supportive and collaborative team environment

For more information on Geotechnics Ltd, go to www.geotechnics.co.nz. For more information on our careers go towww.tonkintaylor.co.nz/careers.

Our value ‘Everyone Matters’ is at the heart of what we do. We’re proud to be an Immigration New Zealand Accredited Employer and a member of Diversity Works. We warmly welcome all applicants, your voice and perspective are valued here.