Laboratory Manager - Geology

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DEPARTMENT OF GEOLOGY | TE TARI TĀTAI AROWHENUA
DIVISION OF SCIENCES | TE ROHE A AHIKĀROA

Lead and enhance specialist Earth science laboratories that support internationally recognised research and teaching at the University of Otago.

The role | Te mahi

Our geochemistry, petrology, sedimentology, fossil preparation, paleomag and geophysics laboratories support world-class research and teaching across a broad range of Earth science disciplines.
As Department Laboratory Manager, you will ensure our laboratories are safe, effective and fit for purpose while supporting staff, students and visitors. You will oversee laboratory infrastructure, lead facility improvement projects, manage chemical inventories and hazardous substances, provide training and inductions for laboratory users, and work with Laboratory Managers across the University to support access to specialist facilities.
You will join a collaborative team supporting three key facilities\: the Geology Building, the Centre for Trace Element Analysis (CTEA), and the Otago Repository for Core Analysis (ORCA).

Key responsibilities include:
•    Ensuring the Geology Building laboratories meet University and legislative health and safety requirements, including PPE, first aid and hazardous substances protocols.
•    Managing and supporting technical staff, postgraduate and undergraduate students, and visitors.
•    Conducting inductions and delivering training in laboratory procedures and specialist equipment.
•    Coordinating maintenance, repairs and facility upgrades in collaboration with internal and external service providers.
•    Managing chemical inventories, storage, disposal and compliance documentation.
•    Serving as backup for MPI Biological Compliance operations related to geological research.
•    Leading initiatives to enhance laboratory functionality and support departmental research needs.

Skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

To be successful in this role, you will have:
•    An MSc or equivalent qualification in geoscience, chemistry or a related discipline.
•    Experience working in a geochemistry, chemistry or related laboratory environment.
•    Experience developing and maintaining professional laboratory procedures.
•    Experience training, supervising or managing staff and students.
•    Excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills.
•    The ability to build effective working relationships with academic, technical and professional staff.
•    A proactive commitment to continuous improvement.

About our team | Mō te tīma

The Department of Geology is internationally recognised for the quality and breadth of its research, teaching and graduates. Our research and teaching are closely connected to the geology of New Zealand, the Southern Ocean and Antarctica, with a strong focus on understanding Earth processes and addressing environmental challenges.

Further details | Pūroko

This is a permanent, part-time (22.5 hours per week) position located in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.

The salary level for this position is Level 7 - $80,749 to $85,649, Top of Range $100,776 (pro rata).

We offer competitive salary, five weeks’ annual leave , a 6.75% superannuation scheme, and the ability to achieve real work/life balance and plenty of professional development opportunities

The University of Otago is a workplace that values and utilises diverse and inclusive thinking, people and behaviours. This means that we honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and that the contributions of staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills and perspectives are valued and respected.

You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.

For further information, or to discuss the role in confidence – please contact Professor Chris Moy, via the contact details below.

Application | Tono

To submit your application (including CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest) please click the apply button. 

Applications quoting reference number 2601282 will close on Monday, 30 November 2026.

Applications may be considered as they are received. The University reserves the right to close this vacancy at any time.

Additional Information 

Note\: As a part-time position, the salary range for this role will be the pro-rata equivalent of the annual full-time salary range listed.

Contact: Chris Moy

Position details: Job Description

Further Information: Department Website

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Location: About Dunedin