Animal Technician

Company Description

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading University. With over 6000 academic and professional staff supporting over 46,000 students, we are one of NZ’s largest employers.  We have six academic faculties, two large-scale research institutes and a number of professional service divisions creating a diverse, dynamic and complex organisational culture that demands excellence.

Our lecturers and researchers are regarded as experts in their fields, frequently directing global research projects designed to better the lives of New Zealanders and the world, and in turn passing this knowledge on to our students.

Job Description

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are seeking a compassionate and reliable Animal Technician to join the Liggins Institute on an 8-month fixed-term basis, supporting a research study focused on improving lifelong health through world-leading science. This hands-on role is ideal for someone who is passionate about animal welfare, enjoys working in a research environment, and takes pride in maintaining high standards of care and accuracy.

Working closely with an experienced research team, you will play an important role in the daily care and welfare of research animals, assisting with study procedures and ensuring accurate record-keeping throughout the project. Full training will be provided for study-specific procedures.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide high-quality daily care, feeding, weighing, and welfare monitoring of research animals.
• Maintain accurate records, databases, and study documentation.
• Assist with sample and tissue collection, blood sampling, and metabolic assessments.
• Prepare treatments, consumables, and study materials as required.
• Support behavioural, physiological, and metabolic testing activities.
• Maintain high standards of hygiene, animal husbandry, and facility compliance.
• Contribute to health and safety practices and participate in research team meetings.

This is a fulltime, fixed term position until 30 June 2027

The salary range for these roles are $63,600 - $79,300 depending on skills and experience

For more detailed information, please refer to the position description

He kōrero mōu | About you

You are someone who cares about animal welfare and thrives in a collaborative environment. You bring a meticulous approach to your work, strong organisational skills and the ability to follow protocols with care and precision. You enjoy supporting research and are comfortable balancing practical animal care responsibilities with accurate data collection and administration.

With experience gained through animal care, laboratory environments, tertiary study, or industry work, you'll be keen to contribute to meaningful research that has the potential to improve health outcomes for future generations. You will also bring:

• Experience caring for animals, ideally within a research, laboratory, agricultural, or veterinary environment.
• Knowledge and understanding of animal welfare principles and regulations.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate records.
• Competency using Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel/Word/Powerpoint.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Previous experience working with laboratory animals would be advantageous.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

The University of Auckland is committed to providing an excellent working environment through:

• Flexible employment practices and a culture that supports work-life balance
• Career development programmes
• A competitive salary with five weeks’ annual leave
• 6.75% superannuation scheme

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply 

Applications should be submitted online, before the closing date of 14 October 2026 and include an up-to-date CV and cover letter outlining what strengths you will bring to this role.

If you have any questions, please email Steffi Freudlsperger via steffi.freudlsperger@auckland.ac.nz

Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications via email

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Qualifications

Additional Information

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz