Trainee Sterile Services Technician

• Permanent full time opportunities
• Earn while you learn, based at Christchurch Health Campus

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is the country’s largest employer, delivering universal public healthcare to 5 million New Zealanders. We provide essential hospital, specialist, and community health services across 80+ locations from large urban centres to rural towns and remote communities.

Our goal is to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders by delivering equitable, accessible and innovative care.

About the Role

No previous medical experience? No problem. This is a paid training opportunity where you can build a long-term career in healthcare.

We’re looking for someone reliable, detail-focused, and ready to learn who wants to be part of a team that plays a vital role behind the scenes of patient care.

Why join us?

• Fully funded one-year tertiary qualification while you work
• Permanent full-time role from day one
• Starting salary of $67,488 with pay increases once trained (Starting at $75,353)
• Gain valuable, practical skills in a critical hospital service
• Be part of a supportive and experienced team

Our Sterile Services team at Waipapa Hospital ensures that all surgical instruments and medical equipment are cleaned, checked, and sterilised to the highest standard. It is important work that supports safe patient care and keeps the hospital running smoothly.

As a trainee, you will learn to:

• Clean, decontaminate, and sterilise reusable medical equipment
• Inspect instruments carefully to make sure they meet strict standards
• Follow detailed processes and documentation requirements
• Work as part of a team in a fast-paced, process-driven environment

This is a hands-on role with repetitive tasks, so it suits someone who can stay focused, consistent, and takes pride in doing things properly.

Shifts are worked on a rotating roster between 6:30am and 11:00pm.

About You

You do not need a healthcare background, but you do need the right mindset. This role suits people who:

• Has some life experience and a reliable, steady approach
• Takes pride in doing things properly and notice the small details
• Is physically fit and comfortable being on their feet and some lifting
• Is happy working in a structured, repetitive environment
• Enjoys learning on the job
• Can commit to shift work and being part of a rostered team
• Enjoys working with others and contributing to a team
• Previous health experience can be advantageous, but is not essential
  
  

This is a great opportunity to join the hospital environment with no prior medical experience required. You’ll earn while you learn, gain an internationally recognised qualification, and become part of a team that plays a critical role in patient care behind the scenes.

Working at Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora

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 5th July. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Alex Jay at Alexandra.jay@tewhatuora.govt.nz

Applications sent via email will not be accepted. We encourage you to apply early as we will be reviewing applications as we receive them and reserve the right to close this advertisement early.

Position description Apply now

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