Technical Specialist - Histology

Marketplace; Whangarei; Hybrid; NZD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora invites applications for a Technical Specialist in Histology at Whangārei Hospital. You will provide technical leadership in Anatomical Pathology, oversee specimen handling from receipt to report, and support quality and safety standards in a modern, purpose-built facility in Te Tai Tokerau.

The role requires NZ Registered & Licensed MLS, strong Histology experience, and the ability to supervise staff while driving continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• NZ Registered & Licensed Medical Laboratory Scientist with NZMSC.
• Computer literacy: Word, Outlook and relevant clinical programs.
• Extensive skills, knowledge & experience in a Histology department.

Responsibilities

• Handle specimens from collection to reporting, including processing.
• Manage specimens referred to external laboratories per policies.
• Ensure quality, safety and best-practice standards in the lab.
• Support Head of Department with operational and quality management.
• Foster staff professional development and continuous workflow improvements.

Skills

Histology expertise

Leadership

Computer literacy

Staff supervision

Education

NZ Registered Medical Laboratory Scientist

Tools

MS Office

Laboratory LIS

Job description

## Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role* **Technical Specialist: Medical Laboratory Scientist Histology Department*** **Anatomical Pathology - Whangarei Hospital, Te Tai Tokerau*** **Permanent full-time position, working 40 hours per week*** **Provide direct technical leadership and innovation within the department**Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.**About the Role**As a Technical Specialist, you will provide technical expertise and leadership within the specialised field of Histology, helping to ensure the Anatomical Pathology department consistently meets all relevant standards. Youll support the prudent and effective use of staff and physical resources while contributing to a highquality, safe, and reliable pathology service. As part of the TeTaiTokerau Pathology Services team, youll play a key role in delivering timely and accurate results to laboratory users.You will be involved in all aspects of specimen handling, including collection, receipt, documentation, registration, processing, and reporting, as well as the management of specimens referred to external laboratories in accordance with authorised policies and protocols. The role also includes a range of technical and operational responsibilities expected of a Technical Specialist, particularly those related to quality, safety, and maintaining bestpractice laboratory standards.In addition, you will also:* Support the Head of Department by sharing responsibility for operational and quality management* Establish and drive a clear career progression pathway for technical staff, improving retention and professional development* Facilitate continuous improvement in workflow, supporting faster and more accurate diagnostics**Click here** to view the position description.**About the Team/Service/Location**Youll be joining a supportive, collaborative team of scientists, technicians, pathologists, and administrative staff who work closely together to achieve the best outcomes for patients. We pride ourselves on being a friendly, social group who look out for one another.Our laboratory has recently moved into a **purposebuilt, stateoftheart facility**a bright, spacious, modern environment designed to support both excellent science and staff wellbeing. Located in beautiful Te Tai Tokerau Northland, youll be close to some of the most stunning beaches and outdoor experiences in.For more information on living and working in Northland, click here**About you*** New Zealand Registered & Licensed Medical Laboratory Scientist with the New Zealand Medical Sciences Council (MSC)* Computer literacy: Word, Outlook and relevant clinical programs* Extensive skills, knowledge & experience in a Histology department**Desired:*** At least 2-3 years experience in a variety of areas within Anatomical Pathology* Evidence of advanced skills in relevant areas* Experience in student supervision and training**Working at Health New Zealand**Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community**.** We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.**How to Apply**To apply please click **apply now**. All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal by **1st November** **2026.** If you have any questions about the role, please contact Olivia Matthews at [e-mail].**We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.**