Clinical Microbiologist | Parental Cover

Clinical Microbiologist – Canterbury Health Laboratories (CHL), Christchurch
Employment type: Fixed-term, Full-time (Parental Leave Cover, 3 months, commencing July 2026 to October 2026

A unique opportunity to step into a high-impact clinical leadership role within one of New Zealand’s leading diagnostic laboratories, supporting a vital service that underpins patient care across the Canterbury region.

Why this role is great:

• Work alongside a highly skilled and collaborative multidisciplinary team
• Exposure to a broad and complex case mix in a large tertiary service
• Contribute meaningfully to clinical decision-making and patient outcomes

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 Clinical Microbiologist, you will provide specialist clinical and diagnostic microbiology services to support patient care across the Canterbury region. This includes interpretation of laboratory results, clinical consultation with healthcare providers, and contributing to infection management and antimicrobial stewardship.

You will play a key role in ensuring high-quality, timely diagnostic services while supporting laboratory operations, quality assurance, and continuous improvement initiatives. This is a fantastic short-term opportunity to contribute to a critical service and work within a respected and well-established team.

About the Team / Service / Location

Canterbury Health Laboratories (CHL) is a leading medical diagnostic reference laboratory providing a comprehensive range of pathology services to hospitals and the wider community. The microbiology team is collaborative, innovative, and committed to delivering high-quality diagnostic and clinical services.

Christchurch offers a unique blend of urban living and easy access to outdoor adventures from beaches to mountains making it an exceptional place to live and work.

About You

As a Clinical Microbiologist, you will bring:

• Vocational registration (or eligibility) with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ)
• Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (FRCPA) or equivalent
• Experience in clinical microbiology within a hospital or diagnostic laboratory setting
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to engage effectively with clinicians
• A commitment to quality improvement, patient safety, and equitable health outcomes

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 serve 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. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Amy.Walker@tewhatuora.govt.nz

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process prior to the closing date of this advert.

Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affected employees will be given preference and priority for this position.

Apply now

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