Laboratory Technician – Microbiology Media Preparation

Awanui; Dunedin; On-site; NZD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Learning & Development opportunities

Job summary

Awanui Veterinary and Scientific in Dunedin is seeking a Laboratory Technician to join the microbiology media preparation team. This permanent, full-time role (80 hours per fortnight) offers part-time consideration and a focus on accurate media preparation, sterilisation, and quality documentation.

You will weigh, mix, sterilise, label media and operate autoclaves and related equipment, ensuring compliance with safety and IANZ/MPI requirements.

Qualifications

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills required.
• Strong computer skills and software literacy essential.
• Willingness to work additional hours when required.
• NZ Restricted or Full Driver’s license is desired.
• Minimum NCEA Biology level 2 is required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare microbiological culture media according to documented procedures and specifications.
• Accurately weigh, measure, mix, sterilise, dispense, and label media.
• Operate laboratory equipment such as autoclaves, balances, pH meters, and media preparation equipment.
• Complete batch records, preparation logs, and other quality documentation accurately.
• Monitor stock levels and assist with inventory management of media components and laboratory consumables.

Skills

Communication skills

Computer literacy

Flexible hours

Driver's license

Organisational skills

Continuous improvement mindset

Under pressure performance

Enthusiasm

Education

NCEA Biology level 2

Tools

Lab equipment operation

Job description

Laboratory Technician – Microbiology Media Preparation

Permanent, Full-time (part-time will be considered)

Dunedin

Who we are | Ko wai mātou:

Awanui Veterinary and Scientific, formerly Gribbles Veterinary and Scientific, is part of Awanui Group, the largest network of human and veterinary pathology laboratories in New Zealand. We are dedicated to delivering top-tier laboratory services to clients nationwide, supporting the health and well-being of animals across the country.

About the role | Mō te tūranga:

Our Dunedin laboratory is currently offering an exciting opportunity for a Laboratory Technician to join the microbiology media preparation team. This is a full-time position of 80 hours fortnightly, however part-time will be considered.

In this role, you will be responsible for the accurate preparation, sterilisation, quality control, labelling, and storage of microbiological culture media

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with laboratory experience who enjoys working in a structured, quality-focused environment and takes pride in maintaining high standards of accuracy, cleanliness, and documentation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare microbiological culture media according to documented procedures and specifications.
• Accurately weigh, measure, mix, sterilise, dispense, and label media.
• Operate laboratory equipment such as autoclaves, balances, pH meters, and media preparation equipment.
• Perform routine quality checks on prepared media, including pH, appearance, sterility, and performance testing as required.
• Complete batch records, preparation logs, and other quality documentation accurately and promptly.
• Monitor stock levels and assist with inventory management of media components and laboratory consumables.
• Maintain a clean, organised, and compliant media preparation area.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures, IANZ/MPI requirements, and relevant quality systems.
• Report preparation issues, deviations, or out-of-specification results promptly to senior staff.
• Work collaboratively with other members of the laboratory team.
• Assist with continuous improvement activities within the media preparation process.

About you | He kōrero mōu

To be successful in this role you need to have:

• Ability to absorb, evaluate, and respond to information and ideas in a positive manner.
• Highly motivated and driven with professional attitude.
• Ability to work well under pressure and safety and quality conscious.
• Ability to organise, prioritise and focus on daily work to meet turnaround times.
• Continuous improvement mind set.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent computer skills.
• Flexibility to work additional hours when required.
• Enthusiasm, energy and a driven outlook.
• A NZ Restricted or Full Driver’s license
• A minimum of NCEA Biology level 2

What’s in it for you | He aha mōu:

You will be joining a friendly, high-performing, and forward-thinking team environment. Our veterinary laboratory is renowned for delivering an outstanding service for patients and healthcare professionals. Explore excellent opportunities to enhance your skills with our in-house Learning & Development team, ensuring your professional competency and career growth.

Application closes 16th October 2026