Laboratory Technician

About the Role and Company

Downer is a leading provider of integrated services across Australia and New Zealand, specializing in planning, creating, and sustaining critical infrastructure and assets. Their Road Science division is New Zealand's top designer and supplier of bitumen and related products, operating advanced manufacturing plants and civil engineering laboratories nationwide.

Opportunity Details

We are offering a 12-month fixed-term contract for a hands-on, technically skilled Laboratory Technician role based in Queenstown. The successful candidate will deliver testing and technical support for the Whakatipu Transport Programme Alliance (WTPA), focusing on construction aggregate and soil testing to ensure compliance with standards and client specifications.

This position offers diverse tasks including field sample testing and office-based reporting, contributing directly to vital transport infrastructure that enhances mobility in Queenstown and benefits the wider community.

Key Skills and Qualifications

• Possession of a full New Zealand Class 1 driver's license.
• Experience in civil engineering material testing, both in laboratory and field settings is preferred.
• Capability to safely handle lifting weights up to 20 kilograms.
• Strong attention to detail along with proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Excellent communication abilities and adeptness at problem-solving.
• Willingness to work flexible hours including nights and weekends as required.

The role requires a proactive individual who effectively manages priorities, is solutions-focused, takes pride in delivering high-quality results, and enjoys collaborating with a project team.

Why Work Here

• Opportunity to expand your technical expertise in a significant civil infrastructure project.
• Hands-on exposure to field and laboratory testing of aggregates and soils.
• Autonomy in managing testing activities daily.
• Chance to develop strong working relationships within the project and operational teams.

Additional Information

Applicants must pass a pre-employment drug test, medical examination, and Ministry of Justice background check prior to employment. Downer and the WTPA project have differing annual shutdown periods: Downer employees finish on 23 December and resume on 11 January 2027, while the WTPA project will shut down from 19 December to 4 January 2027 with a possible extension to 11 January 2027 depending on operational needs.