Job Description
Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role
Senior Technician Genomics
Role type: Fixed-term until 30 June 2028, full-time
Location: Wallaceville, Upper Hutt
Salary Range: General Salary Range G Band – $66,331 to $84,949 (based on experience)
About the Role - Kōrero mō te Tūranga
We're seeking a Senior Technician with expertise in genomics and molecular biology to join the Genomics team at New Zealand's National Animal Health Laboratory. This role supports the generation and analysis of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) data and contributes to diagnostic test development for a wide range of animal diseases.
You'll play a key role in enhancing MPI's sequencing capabilities, working in a dynamic environment where flexibility is essential. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to New Zealand's biosecurity while growing your scientific expertise.
Key Responsibilities
- Implement innovative tools and techniques for high-throughput NGS data generation and processing
- Collaborate to maximize the benefits of sequencing technologies
- Build relationships with science and technology providers to stay current with innovations
- Support biosecurity investigations, mentor staff, and collaborate nationally and internationally
About You – Mōu
You'll have a BSc in genetics or molecular biology and strong NGS experience. Experience in quality-assured animal health diagnostics is a plus.
You'll bring:
- Proficiency in sequencing technologies (Sanger, Illumina, Oxford Nanopore)
- Ability to troubleshoot and design sequencing experiments
- Familiarity with QA systems and lab standards (ISO:17025, AS/NZS 2243.3, HSNO, etc.)
- Adaptability and a collaborative mindset
- Understanding of global pathogens and their potential impact on NZ
You do not need to meet all of the role requirements to apply. We offer a breadth of development and learning opportunities and will welcome an application if you think you could make a great fit.
About the Team - Mō tō mātou Rōpū
The genomics team currently comprises 6 people with a broad depth of experience in genomics, bioinformatics and molecular biology, we work collaboratively with other disciplinary teams on aquatic and terrestrial animal pathogens at the Animal Health Laboratory to provide accurate and timely diagnostics crucial to biosecurity.
About MPI - Mō te Manatū Ahu Matua
We're passionate about growing prosperity in the sector while ensuring respect for Kaitiaki – guardianship of our natural resources.
Benefits of working at MPI - Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Ahu Matua
- Additional MPI leave days
- Ability to purchase extra annual leave
- Annual Wellness payment
Security checks - Ngā Taki Whakahaumaru
Low level Security Clearance
- most preferably a NZ citizen, who has resided continuously in NZ for at least the last five (5) years, OR
- is a citizen of, and/or has resided continuously in one or more of the following countries for the last five (5) years: either Australia, Canada, NZ, the United Kingdom (UK), Ireland or the United States of America (USA); and has a background history that is verifiable and can be assessed as appropriate by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) towards a recommendation of suitability for a security clearance at this level.
- click here to find out more about the national security vetting process and access the eligibility self-check tool.
If you do not meet these minimum criteria, we will not be able to accept your application.
Drug and Alcohol Screening - Whakamātau Whakapōauau me te Waipiro
Please note, given this position is safety sensitive the preferred candidates(s) for the position will be required to undergo a drug and alcohol pre-employment screening test. Further information on this process can be found on our careers site, here.
Are you ready to make a difference? - Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi whaitake?
We are committed to being a good partner under Te Tiriti o Waitangi which includes working closely with iwi, hapū, whānau and hāpori.
We aspire to reflect the diverse communities we serve, so we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, and identities. As an organisation, we are committed to making Manatū Ahu Matua Ministry for Primary Industries a great place to work for all.
In your cover letter we'd like to know about you, your values; your interest and motivations for this role; the abilities, strengths, personal attributes and diverse perspectives you will bring to the role and this organisation, which may have also been gained outside of the workforce.
To view the position description and/or apply online, please click “APPLY FOR THIS JOB” or visit the MPI Careers Site. To apply, you must hold the right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain it – click here to find out more about work visa eligibility and options.
Applications close at midnight on Tuesday 8th July 2025
If you have any questions about the role, please email cassie.a'uvaa@mpi.govt.nz