Casual Science Laboratory Technician in Canterbury

Casual Science Laboratory Technician in Canterbury

Canterbury Part-Time 12 - 15 ÂŁ / hour (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support hands-on science labs, ensuring smooth practical classes and activities.
  • Company: Join Ara Institute of Canterbury, a vibrant and progressive tertiary education provider.
  • Benefits: Flexible hours, gain lab experience, and connect with a dynamic learning environment.
  • Why this job: Perfect for those who love variety and want to make a difference in science education.
  • Qualifications: Previous lab experience and strong health and safety knowledge required.
  • Other info: Training provided for the right candidate; ideal for students seeking casual work.

The predicted salary is between 12 - 15 ÂŁ per hour.

We’re looking for someone to step in and support our science laboratories during periods of increased activity. As a Science Laboratory Technician, you’ll provide hands‑on support across our science laboratories, helping to ensure practical classes and activities run smoothly. This includes preparing and setting up laboratories, supporting teaching staff and learners, maintaining equipment, and ensuring laboratories remain safe, tidy and well organised. You’ll be someone we can rely on to jump in when workloads increase and extra support is needed.

This is a true casual role with no guaranteed hours. Work will be offered on an as‑needed basis, making it ideal for someone who enjoys variety and flexibility while staying connected to a busy lab environment.

Skills and Experience

  • Previous experience working in a laboratory environment.
  • Sound practical knowledge of health and safety in a lab setting.
  • Organised, reliable and comfortable following established procedures while working collaboratively with academic and technical staff.
  • A flexible approach and willingness to help where needed.
  • A tertiary qualification in a science‑related discipline.
  • Current industry or discipline knowledge.
  • Strong digital literacy, including competence using a computer and Microsoft Office.
  • Experience setting up and packing down practical laboratory work, including biology, microbiology, chemistry and molecular biology, in line with health and safety requirements.
  • Experience storing, handling and disposing of micro‑organisms and or chemicals, including hazardous substances, in compliance with relevant legislation.
  • Ability to collect, handle and dispose of biological material for dissection.
  • Experience monitoring and maintaining inventories, including asset registers, stock‑taking and purchasing.
  • The ability to support teaching delivery, including assisting with the development and production of teaching resources.

A Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Applied Science or Level 6 Diploma in Applied Science, and a current full driver’s licence would be an advantage, but are not essential. We’re happy to provide training as needed for the right candidate.

About us

Ara Institute of Canterbury is a vibrant and progressive tertiary institute providing world‑class, tertiary‑level education throughout the Canterbury and Waitaki region. Our talented employees, innovative business collaborators and supportive community partners are passionate about the role they play in our learners’ success.

Ara is committed to giving effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and delivering services in a manner that responds with excellence to the needs of Māori learners and their whānau, as well as the aspirations of iwi and Māori communities throughout our catchment (including Māori employers). To deliver effectively on this commitment, Ara recognises the need for a culturally competent and confident workforce vertically and horizontally across our organisation.

Apply now

We accept applications via our online application system. For any other queries, please email Recruitment@Ara.ac.nz.

Closing date: 11:55pm Sunday, 12 April 2026 (note, we may commence interviews before the closing date)

Casual Science Laboratory Technician in Canterbury employer: Ara Institute of Canterbury Ltd.

Ara Institute of Canterbury is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment for those looking to contribute to the education sector. With a commitment to employee growth and development, staff enjoy flexible working arrangements and the opportunity to engage in meaningful work that directly impacts student success. Located in Christchurch, Ara fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals to thrive in their careers.
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Contact Detail:

Ara Institute of Canterbury Ltd. Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Casual Science Laboratory Technician in Canterbury

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know the lab environment before you apply! If you can, visit the campus or reach out to current staff. This shows your genuine interest and helps you understand what they’re looking for.

✨Tip Number 2

Network like a pro! Connect with people in the field through LinkedIn or local events. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.

✨Tip Number 3

Be ready to showcase your skills in an interview. Prepare examples of how you've handled lab work, followed safety protocols, or supported teaching staff. We want to see your hands-on experience!

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Ara Institute of Canterbury.

We think you need these skills to ace Casual Science Laboratory Technician in Canterbury

Laboratory Experience
Health and Safety Knowledge
Organisational Skills
Reliability
Collaboration Skills
Digital Literacy
Microsoft Office Competence
Practical Laboratory Setup
Biological Material Handling
Inventory Management
Teaching Support
Tertiary Qualification in Science
Flexibility

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Lab Skills: Make sure to highlight your previous lab experience in your application. We want to see how you've handled practical work and followed health and safety protocols, so don’t hold back on those details!

Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your application for this role. Mention specific experiences that relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description, like setting up labs or supporting teaching staff. It shows us you’re genuinely interested!

Keep It Organised: Just like a tidy lab, your application should be well-organised. Use clear headings, bullet points, and concise language to make it easy for us to read through your qualifications and experiences.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our online system! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super straightforward!

How to prepare for a job interview at Ara Institute of Canterbury Ltd.

✨Know Your Lab Basics

Brush up on your lab experience and health and safety knowledge. Be ready to discuss specific procedures you've followed in previous roles, especially around handling chemicals and biological materials. This shows you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.

✨Show Your Flexibility

Since this role is casual and requires jumping in when needed, highlight your adaptability. Share examples of times when you’ve had to adjust quickly to changing workloads or support different teams. This will demonstrate that you’re the reliable person they can count on during busy periods.

✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios

Expect questions about how you would handle specific lab situations, like setting up experiments or maintaining equipment. Think through some scenarios beforehand and be ready to explain your thought process. This will show your problem-solving skills and readiness for the role.

✨Engage with the Interviewers

Don’t forget that interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the lab environment and team dynamics. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you. Plus, it makes for a more engaging conversation!

Casual Science Laboratory Technician in Canterbury
Ara Institute of Canterbury Ltd.
Location: Canterbury

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