Lab Manager - Environmental and Biological Sciences, Auckland CBD

- Provide people leadership to our team of technical staff

- Drive continuous improvement in laboratory operations, systems, and service delivery

- Permanent, full-time role based at AUT's City Campus

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is bold and unapologetically different, centred on students and grounded in Knowledge that Works driven by talented, progressive people. We are New Zealand’s newest university, ranked 5-stars by QS Universities 2025 and a place of opportunity where more than 26,000 students with talent and potential succeed, supported by a community of more than 4,000 staff based primarily across three Auckland campuses. Built on collaboration, shared purpose and the values of Pono (fact, truth, reality, integrity), Tika (acting accordingly, doing what is needed, ethical expression), and Aroha (empathy, care, compassion). AUT offers an innovative, forward-thinking environment where committed people work together to improve outcomes for students, communities, and the world.

AUT recognises the importance of Te Tiriti, Māori and Pacific knowledge, leadership, and contribution across our university and is committed to creating environments where these communities can thrive. We embrace diversity in all its forms and are proud to welcome people of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious and political beliefs, socio-economic situations and accessibility needs.

The School of Science comprises environmental and marine science, biological science, biomedical science, medical diagnostics, psychology and neuroscience, chemistry and food science. Science plays a pivotal role in AUT’s place as a university of technology and we are actively working to promote its profile within the university. We have a wonderful community of deeply committed academic scholars and professional colleagues, guided by Te Aronui (AUT's Te Tiriti framework). Our school produces culturally aware graduates with practical experience and skills that work in the real world, not just on paper, through courses designed to meet the shifting needs of the science workforce. Our staff drive innovative progress through our intensive, productive world-class research and engaging, relevant and practical teaching. Energy is high and it is an exciting time to consider joining us. The School is part of our dynamic Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences. 

The Opportunity | Te Whiwhinga mahi 

In this role, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across our biology and environmental science laboratories and field activities. You will have significant responsibility for laboratory operations, health and safety, regulatory compliance, and people leadership.

Reporting to the Senior Manager – Faculty Technical Services and working closely with the Head of School and School Manager, you will:

• Lead and oversee the day-to-day operations of environmental and biological science laboratories and field trips
• Provide people leadership to a team of technical staff, including workload planning, supervision, performance development, and capability building
• Ensure laboratories and field activities are fully compliant with health, safety, and regulatory requirements, including maintaining certifications and overseeing hazardous materials and waste disposal
• Coordinate and support laboratory teaching and field activities, working collaboratively with academic staff to enhance student learning outcomes
• Manage laboratory resources, equipment, and facilities, ensuring assets are well maintained, fit for purpose, and efficiently utilised
• Drive continuous improvement in laboratory operations, systems, and service delivery

About you | Ko wai koe 

If you’re the kind of person who isn’t afraid to try new things, explore bold ideas and inject real energy and passion into the entire university experience - you’ll fit right in.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• At least 5 years’ laboratory management and operations experience
• Experience managing people collaboratively with demonstrated ability to lead, coach and develop technical staff
• Demonstrated experience in health and safety leadership, risk management, and regulatory compliance in laboratory and field-based environments
• The ability to form strong relationships with academic staff, students and external agencies including MPI
• Strong organisational, problem-solving, and communication skills
• A practical, solutions-focused approach, and the ability to stay calm under pressure
• A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Supportive of AUT’s Te Aronui journey (https://www.aut.ac.nz/about/maori/auts-commitment-to-Te-Tiriti-o-Waitangi).

As a professional member of staff at AUT, you’ll help keep us moving forward. From improving our services and streamlining our systems to supporting the experiences of students and staff across our campuses. By working collaboratively, solving problems and driving practical improvements, you’ll play a vital role in helping us operate smoothly, raise our profile, and evolve what we do, every day.

You will bring an open, engaging, and collaborative approach, with the flexibility to respond to changing requirements, and actively contribute to a positive and collegial environment. You will demonstrate cultural humility, awareness, and respect when engaging with indigenous peoples and culturally diverse communities. Experience supporting indigenous, equity, or inclusion focused initiatives is highly desirable.

 What we offer | Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou

At AUT, you’ll be part of a values-led university that supports you to thrive in your role and career. We offer:

• Flexible working and a strong, caring culture that supports belonging.
• Recognition frameworks that reflect your contribution and how you live our values.
• The tools and trust to make a meaningful difference every day.
• Māori and Pacific development programmes that strengthen our shared purpose.
• Cultural capability uplift development programmes for all staff
• Professional development and funded study pathways to keep you moving forward.
• Free gym membership.

How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono 

Along with your CV - please ensure to submit a cover letter which a) explains why this role (and AUT) is of interest, and b) addresses how you feel you meet some, or all, of the key criteria listed above.

Please feel free to add any further comments you feel may also support your application. All applications must be submitted through the online application process.

Further Information | Pārongo Anō

• Start Date: as soon as possible
• Salary Ranges | Ngā Utu: $90,000 - $106,000
• For further information: please send us an enquiry hereor call 09 921 9499. 

Closing Date | Te rā aukati: 14 June at 10.30pm

Job Reference | Tohutoro Mahi: 95283

*Full-time denotes 37.5 hours per week

At AUT we strive to be a place where people love to work and learn. We are committed to te Tiriti, excellence and inclusivity and aspire to be the University of choice for Māori and Pacific communities. We welcome people of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious and political beliefs, socio-economic situations and accessibility needs.Please note that all applications must be submitted through the online application process. For further information, please send us an enquiry here or call 921 9499. Please note we are happy to answer your questions but we do not accept applications by email. You will need to apply through the standard registration process.

Nā tō rourou, nā taku rourou ka ora ai te iwi.

With your food basket and my food basket, the people will thrive.