Medical Laboratory Scientist | Canterbury Health Lab

• Christchurch – Canterbury Health Laboratories
• Part time fixed term position working 34 hours per week

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

This is an exciting opportunity for a professional, highly motivated Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) to join the Genetics Section at Canterbury Health Laboratories (www.chl.co.nz). The Genetics Section offers an extensive portfolio of tests for a wide range of clinical applications including single gene and mitochondrial disorders, pre-implantation genetic diagnosis and molecular oncology/haematology. The laboratory is well equipped with the latest technology and has established national and international research collaborations.  

This vacancy is for 34 hours per week, working Monday to Friday between the hours of 8.30am and 5pm. The precise shift pattern is relatively flexible within these hours. The fixed term is currently anticipated to continue until 22/03/2026 when a parental leave vacancy comes to an end.

We are ideally looking for an MLS with previous experience working as a scientist in a diagnostic genetic testing laboratory. However, applications from trainee scientists may be considered and full training will be provided.

About you

Skills and experience

This role requires the following:

• Registered as a Medical Laboratory Scientist with the New Zealand Medical Sciences Council, with a current Annual Practising Certificate and will ideally have previous experience working as a scientist in a diagnostic genetic laboratory
• Or maybe you are a new BMLSc graduate, or about to graduate with a BMLSc
• Ability to work independently but also part of a team
• High attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

You will be a highly motivated team player with excellent interpersonal skills and able to work as part of a team as well as independently. In addition, you will be organised and efficient with effective time management skills.

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. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Kerri McCarthy at Kerri.McCarthy@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz

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