Technical Officer

About the role

The University of Waikato is seeking a Technical Officer to support teaching and research within Te Aka Mātuatua School of Science. In this position, you will be part of a cooperative technical team that helps keep science laboratories, equipment, and specialist spaces running safely and effectively.

Your work will contribute directly to practical teaching and research across several science programmes. The role involves a mix of laboratory setup, equipment upkeep, stock control, troubleshooting, and health and safety support, along with day-to-day operational tasks such as cleaning laboratories, washing glassware, handling waste, and helping run the Science Store when needed.

This is a full-time onsite position based at the Hillcrest Campus in Hamilton, with a standard week of 37.5 hours. The salary range is NZ$73,235 to NZ$87,024 per year, depending on the experience, knowledge, and skills you bring to the role.

What you will be doing

• Providing technical support that strengthens teaching delivery and research activities across science disciplines.
• Preparing laboratories and practical teaching spaces before classes and research work.
• Maintaining, checking, and troubleshooting laboratory equipment.
• Managing stock, supplies, and laboratory consumables.
• Supporting laboratory safety processes and compliance, including the handling of hazardous substances.
• Carrying out routine operational tasks such as cleaning laboratories, washing glassware, and disposing of waste appropriately.
• Assisting with Science Store operations where required.
• Working closely with technicians and other team members in a multidisciplinary environment.

What we are looking for

To succeed in this role, you will need a relevant tertiary qualification in science, along with practical technical and laboratory experience. Background in a tertiary institution, research setting, or scientific environment would be especially valuable.

You should be comfortable using and maintaining laboratory equipment, have a solid understanding of laboratory health and safety, and be familiar with managing hazardous substances. Strong organisational ability, attention to detail, and the capacity to balance multiple priorities in a busy environment are also important.

Good communication, analytical thinking, and problem-solving abilities are essential, as is a collaborative working style. Experience with analytical instruments, physical containment facilities, or autoclave operation would be an advantage.

Above all, the ideal candidate will be proactive, service-oriented, and committed to supporting high-quality teaching, research, and student outcomes.

About the School and University

Te Aka Mātuatua School of Science is a research-focused school with a wide span of teaching and research activity across many science areas. It sits within the Division of STEM, which also includes Engineering and Computing and Mathematical Sciences, as well as several research and commercial/equipment units.

The University of Waikato is known for its international outlook, research activity, and commitment to education that prepares students for the future. The university values diversity, welcomes applicants from all backgrounds who meet the requirements, and is guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity.

Additional information

Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand in line with immigration requirements. Applications are to be submitted through the online portal only; emailed applications will not be accepted. Applications will be considered as they arrive, and the closing date is Sunday, 14 June 2026. Requisition number: 1003643.

Benefits

This role comes with additional university leave and a competitive superannuation contribution. You will also be joining a supportive, innovative science team within a satisfying work environment.