Laboratory Technician

Rotorua Lakes Council - Where nature meets innovation
Are you ready to combine the best of both worlds? Rotorua Lakes Council offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to work in a place where nature's beauty intersects with innovation. Enjoy the convenience of lakeside living and the thrill of mountain biking while contributing to groundbreaking projects like the Sir Howard Morrison Centre, Aquatic Centre Revitalisation, and Rotorua Lakefront Redevelopment. Immerse yourself in our rich bicultural heritage and collaborate with Te Arawa, our local iwi, all while being part of a council that's dedicated to culture, people, and connections.
Toitū te marae o Tāne, Toitū te marae o Tangaroa, ka toitū hoki te marae o te tangata When the domain of the forests and the waters endure, so will humankind
We’re looking for a flexible, motivated, laboratory technician to support the operation of our IANZ-accredited water laboratory on a casual, on-call basis. This essential role contributes to the protection of public health and the environment by supporting the analysis and reporting of drinking water, stormwater, wastewater, and effluent samples from both Council and external clients.
This work is critical in enabling the Rotorua Lakes Council—and those we support—to demonstrate compliance with national drinking water standards, regional resource consents, and legislative requirements.
Key Responsibilities
**As part of our professional laboratory team, you will**:

- Receive, process, and analyse a wide range of water samples.
- Ensure accurate and timely data recording and reporting of test results.
- Work safely and efficiently in diverse environments following established laboratory procedures and quality standards.

What You’ll Bring
**Essential Skills and Experience**:

- A degree in a science-related field (e.g. Chemistry, Environmental Science).
- A current, full driver’s licence.
- Practical laboratory experience (educational or industry-based).
- Experience using Microsoft Excel.
- Clear communication skills - both written and verbal.
- Good level of physical fitness and agility for field sampling and handling equipment.
- Manual dexterity for laboratory processes and sub-sample management.
- High level of numeracy and attention to detail.
- A working understanding of physical, chemical and/or microbiological testing methods.
- Excellent time management with the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.
- Proven ability to work independently while also contributing effectively within a team environment.

This is a great opportunity to contribute to meaningful work that impacts the health of our community and natural environment—while gaining experience in an accredited scientific setting.
If you’re flexible, adaptable, science-driven, and thrive in a dynamic, hands-on environment, we’d love to hear from you.
Click this link to view the position description for this role
Te Kaunihera o nga Roto o Rotorua (Rotorua Lakes Council) is committed to working in partnership with Te Arawa, our local iwi. We aspire to being a bicultural organisation and we value staff who speak te reo Maori, have an appreciation of Maori values, and a working knowledge of tikanga Maori.