Microbial Ecology and Water Quality Technician - NIWA

• Based in Hamilton, New Zealand
• Permanent, full-time (37.5 hours per week)
• $68,000-$95,000 annual salary range dependent on the successful candidate

About NIWA
NIWA is a dynamic research organisation whose purpose is to enhance the economic value and sustainable management of New Zealand's aquatic resources and environments, to provide understanding of climate and the atmosphere and increase resilience to weather and climate hazards to improve safety and wellbeing of New Zealanders. NIWA is New Zealand's largest and pre-eminent provider of climate, freshwater and marine science.

What we are looking for

Do you want a diverse role with a balance of field, laboratory and office work?

We are seeking an enthusiastic and skilled technician, who can work well as part of a team, to undertake analysis of environmental samples in our microbiology, phycology, water quality and ecotoxicology laboratories. The appointee will provide technical expertise for these laboratories including project management, proposal and report writing, instrument maintenance and troubleshooting, and compliance/implementation of quality assurance programmes and standards (including IANZ 17025). The primary role is microbial ecology (which may include phytoplankton identification) and water quality analyses including the use of instrumentation (e.g., flow cytometer, FIA, ColiMinder, Microtox). Training will be provided in the laboratories' systems and processes and analytical standard operating procedures.

What you will bring

Candidates should have a minimum of a New Zealand Diploma in Science and demonstrate broad knowledge and experience of laboratory techniques, including chemical and sample handling and the operation of complex laboratory instrumentation. A working and/or theoretical knowledge of microbial ecology, water quality and/or ecotoxicology is preferred. The candidate will have proven project management and scientific writing experience, be conscientious and have meticulous attention to detail in their analytical processes and record keeping. The candidate will have knowledge and experience with quality assurance systems and seek opportunities for continual improvement of work systems and practices. The candidate must be physically able to undertake field and laboratory work and work safely and cooperatively in a team environment. The position requires an ability to work flexibly in response to varying work priorities.

Interested?

We don't expect perfection in our candidates - if you think you have what it takes, but don't meet every point referenced in the position description, please still get in touch!

NIWA offers competitive remuneration and flexible working options (e.g., part-time, flexible start and finish times). We are happy to discuss potential flexible options for this position at the interview stage.

NIWA promotes the importance and value of an inclusive and diverse workforce, including the Rainbow Community, and takes pride on being a family-friendly and supportive workplace.