Scientist

Join to apply for the Scientist role at Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) .

Job Overview

Role title : Scientist, National Animal Health Laboratory. Fixed-term or secondment until December 2026, full‑time. Location : Wallaceville, Upper Hutt.

Salary : $76,463 - $101,621 per annum (depending on skills and experience).

About the Role

At New Zealand’s National Animal Health Laboratory we’re seeking a Scientist expert in Bacteriology and Mycology. Back‑filling for a staff member on parental leave, you’ll play a key role in enhancing MPI’s sequencing capabilities in a dynamic environment where flexibility is essential.

About You

We’re seeking a highly motivated individual with hands‑on technical experience in bacterial culture. You should have strong expertise in bacterial identification, including biochemical and molecular techniques, and prior experience with Mycoplasma bovis. Knowledge of mycology would be advantageous.

• Extensive laboratory microbiology skills.
• Experience in molecular biology techniques.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Leadership and mentoring experience within a team setting.
• A background in collaborative research and quality systems.
• Strong planning, project management, and prioritisation skills.
• A proactive approach to building relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• The ability to work 5 days per week at the laboratory.

Benefits

Security Clearance

Low‑level Security Clearance – most preferably a New Zealand citizen, who has resided continuously in New Zealand for at least the last five years, or a citizen of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom or the United States with comparable continuous residence.

If you do not meet these minimum criteria, we may not be able to accept your application.

Drug and Alcohol Screening

Given this position is safety sensitive, the preferred applicant 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.

Commitment to Diversity

We are committed to being a good partner under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, working closely with iwi, hapū, whānau and hāpori, and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities.

Application

Applications close at 11 : 59 pm on Sunday, 09 November 2025. To apply, you must hold the right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain it. Click APPLY FOR THIS JOB or visit the MPI Careers Site. For questions, email

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