Laboratory Technician - Specimen Reception

Role overview

This fixed-term, part-time Laboratory Technician position is based in Christchurch and sits within the Specimen Reception team. The role is with Awanui Veterinary and Scientific, previously known as Gribbles Veterinary and Scientific, which is part of Awanui Group. The organisation operates one of New Zealand’s largest networks of human and veterinary pathology laboratories and focuses on supporting animal health nationwide.

What you’ll do

Working as a key member of the reception team, you will help keep specimen intake and daily laboratory operations running smoothly. The position reports to the Section Leader and plays an important part in maintaining a culture of improvement, quality, and responsive service for both internal colleagues and external clients.

Because this is the first contact point for incoming samples, accuracy, professionalism, and a strong client-service mindset are essential. You will help ensure samples are received and handled correctly, support client requests, and contribute to a fast-moving laboratory environment.

Core duties

• Accept, log, and process incoming laboratory specimens with care and precision.
• Serve as the initial contact for clients and visitors.
• Prepare and send consumable supplies to customers throughout the region.
• Pick up samples from local clients when needed.
• Keep communication clear, courteous, and professional with both internal teams and customers.
• Contribute to ongoing improvement, efficiency, and quality in the workplace.
• Carry out all work in accordance with laboratory procedures, protocols, and standards.

What the role involves

This is a fixed-term, part-time appointment for 70 hours per fortnight. The closing date for applications is 16 July 2026.

About you

You should bring a practical, positive, and solution-oriented approach, along with the ability to stay organised and work well in a busy setting. The role suits someone who is comfortable using technology, values safety and quality, and is willing to learn and adapt.

Additional requirements

You must be eligible to work in New Zealand. The role also requires flexibility to take on extra hours when needed.

Team and culture

You will join a friendly, high-performing, and forward-looking team that is committed to delivering excellent service for animal patients and veterinary professionals. The workplace is built around three guiding values:

• Manaakitanga - caring for each other and the people served by the organisation
• Whakapakari - improving and adapting to create opportunities for success
• Hiranga - delivering the highest level of medical and scientific expertise

Opportunity

If you take pride in your work, care about quality, and want to contribute to a supportive team environment, this role offers the chance to make a meaningful difference in a respected veterinary laboratory setting.