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.
Weâre looking for someone to step in and support our science laboratories during periods of increased activity. As a Science Laboratory Technician, youâll provide handsâon 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. Youâll 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 asâneeded 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 scienceârelated 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 microâorganisms 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, stockâtaking 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 driverâs licence would be an advantage, but are not essential. Weâre happy to provide training as needed for the right candidate.
About us
Ara Institute of Canterbury is a vibrant and progressive tertiary institute providing worldâclass, tertiaryâlevel 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 learnersâ 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 MÄori learners and their whÄnau, as well as the aspirations of iwi and MÄori communities throughout our catchment (including MÄori 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.
Contact Detail:
Ara Institute of Canterbury Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice đ¤Ť
We think this is how you could land Casual Science Laboratory Technician in Canterbury
â¨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 theyâre looking for.
â¨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 arenât even advertised yet.
â¨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!
â¨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Itâs the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows youâre serious about joining our team at Ara Institute of Canterbury.
We think you need these skills to ace Casual Science Laboratory Technician in Canterbury
Some tips for your application đŤĄ
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 donât 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 youâre 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: Donât forget to submit your application through our online system! Itâs the best way for us to receive your details and ensures youâre considered for the role. Plus, itâs super straightforward!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ara Institute of Canterbury Ltd.
â¨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 youâre not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
â¨Show Your Flexibility
Since this role is casual and requires jumping in when needed, highlight your adaptability. Share examples of times when youâve had to adjust quickly to changing workloads or support different teams. This will demonstrate that youâre the reliable person they can count on during busy periods.
â¨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.
â¨Engage with the Interviewers
Donât 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 itâs the right fit for you. Plus, it makes for a more engaging conversation!