Company Description

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

Ko te whare Pūtaiao | The Faculty of Science at the University of Auckland is the largest and most highly ranked science faculty in New Zealand. The Faculty of Science is ranked among the top 90 science faculties worldwide by the QS World University Rankings. The 10 departments and schools that form the Faculty of Science represent the breadth and diversity of science in our modern world.

Our staff and students can connect with our flagship groups including Tuākana, Rainbow, Women of Colour, Māori, Pacific, Muslim, and Disabled Staff network and our Waipapa Marae.

Job Description

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

Help power the science behind tomorrow's discoveries

We're looking for a Senior Technician – Plant Molecular Biology to join our Technical Services team. This is an opportunity to provide specialist technical support across plant science teaching and research, working with academics, researchers, students, and laboratory users.

You'll play an important role in keeping teaching laboratories, research facilities, equipment, and biological resources operating safely and effectively. From supporting practical teaching sessions and maintaining specialist equipment to coordinating technical resources and supporting plant molecular biology research, you'll help create the environment researchers and students need to do their best work.

What you'll be doing

• Providing specialist technical support across plant cellular and molecular biology, biochemistry and genetics
• Supporting the preparation and delivery of practical teaching sessions, including testing experiments, equipment and protocols
• Coordinating laboratory resources, biological materials, equipment and facilities to support teaching and research
• Developing, documenting and improving laboratory methods, protocols and processes
• Maintaining specialist equipment and ensuring laboratories are safe, compliant and ready for use
• Training, coaching and supporting students, Teaching Assistants, researchers and laboratory users
• Supporting health, safety, containment and regulatory requirements across assigned laboratories and facilities

This is a full-time (37.5 hours per week), permanent position.

The salary range is $73,400 to $86,403 per annum, depending on skills and experience.

For more detailed information, please refer to the Position Description

He kōrero mōu | About you

You'll bring a strong background in plant cellular and molecular biology, along with a practical, solutions-focused approach. You'll be comfortable working across teaching and research environments, troubleshooting technical issues and managing competing priorities while maintaining high standards of accuracy, safety and organisation.

We're particularly interested in hearing from candidates who have:

• A postgraduate degree in Biological Sciences, Plant Science or a related discipline
• 3+ years' experience in plant cellular and molecular biology post-BSc
• Experience explaining and resolving difficult technical issues
• Strong accuracy, attention to detail, and organisational skills
• The ability to multitask, prioritise and manage your workload effectively
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Experience mentoring or instructing others in a laboratory environment would be advantageous
• Previous experience in a tertiary environment would be advantageous

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

The University of Auckland is New Zealand's leading University and maintains significant computational, laboratory, and analytic facilities. Auckland is frequently rated as one of the world's most liveable cities.

The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment through the following:

· Flexible employment practices (including working from home and flexible hours)

· Up to 6.75% company superannuation scheme

· A competitive salary with five weeks' annual leave

In addition, we also offer career development programs, discounted car parking, a generous parental leave allowance, childcare, and other discounts on internal and external services.

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online, by the closing date of 27th October 2026 to be considered.  Please include your cover letter and your CV highlighting how you can meet the skills and experience detailed above.

Please reach out to Wendy Payne (Technical Team Leader) via w.payne@auckland.ac.nz for a confidential conversation. Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.

Qualifications

Additional Information

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz