Medical Laboratory Technician | Bacteriology

Christchurch - Canterbury Health Laboratories – Bacteriology Department is looking for a Medical Laboratory Technician to join our permanent full‑time team (40 hours, Sunday to Thursday 08:00‑17:00). This role works within Canterbury Health Laboratories, the largest medical laboratory in the South Island and a key secondary/tertiary referral centre. The laboratory operates 24/7 and is equipped with a modern range of specialist equipment.

The Bacteriology Department is a collaborative team of Medical Laboratory Scientists, Medical Laboratory Technicians, Microbiologists and Registrars. As a Medical Laboratory Technician you will perform diagnostic testing and specimen‑processing activities to support clinicians and patients across the health system. You will work closely with Medical Laboratory Scientists, Pathologists and clinical teams to ensure accurate and timely laboratory results.

• Process and prioritise microbiology specimens in accordance with laboratory protocols.
• Inoculate specimens onto appropriate culture media and undertake primary specimen processing.
• Process urine specimens using automated urinalysis systems.
• Perform microscopy of body fluids and prepare Gram stains.
• Load, monitor and process blood cultures using automated blood culture systems.
• Assist with preliminary identification and sensitivity testing of positive blood cultures.
• Perform PCR and molecular diagnostic testing in accordance with laboratory procedures.
• Ensure quality control processes are followed and documented.
• Communicate urgent or significant results to supervising scientists and clinicians as required.
• Provide excellent customer service to clinicians, patients and healthcare providers.
• Contribute to a safe, quality‑focused, and collaborative laboratory environment.

• Patient‑focused and flexible approach to work, ensuring team goals are met.
• Eye for excellence and quality.
• Ability to work independently and under periods of pressure.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to work with a range of people from various backgrounds.
• Current NZ Registration with the Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand.

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a diverse and inclusive workforce to better serve our community. We welcome applications from Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.

If you have questions about the role, please contact Kerri McCarthy at [email protected].