Chemical Pathologist at Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealand Waitaha Canterbury, Christchurch

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Chemical Pathologist | Christchurch | Permanent Full Time

Shape the future of pathology in Aotearoa New Zealand, while enjoying the lifestyle only Waitaha Canterbury can offer.

Join a nationally respected, innovation-focused lab, working alongside leading experts in specialist biochemistry.

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi and committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders with equity and excellence.

About the Role

We are seeking a forward-thinking Chemical Pathologist to join our dynamic, expert-led team at Canterbury Health Laboratories - one of only two tertiary referral laboratories in Aotearoa New Zealand. Based in the South Island - s largest tertiary hospital (Christchurch), you - ll play a pivotal role in our diagnostic services, quality assurance, and specialist test development.

You - ll work in a collaborative environment with three other Chemical Pathologists and a registrar, delivering complex testing, advising on clinical interpretation, supporting scientific teams, and guiding innovations in test validation and implementation. The department offers opportunities to contribute to lipid clinics and actively supports research, teaching, and national screening programmes.

This is an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to public health, while being part of a well-resourced lab committed to quality, education, and clinical excellence.

About the Team and Laboratory

Canterbury Health Laboratories is a national leader in diagnostic pathology and an integral part of Te Whatu Ora - Waitaha. Our lab delivers 24/7 services to Christchurch Hospital, regional services across Te Waipounamu (the South Island), and specialist services nationwide.

The team includes highly skilled scientists, technicians, phlebotomists, and support staff, all focused on patient outcomes and service innovation. We offer an extensive test menu including toxicology, metabolic, endocrine, and protein biomarkers. Equipment includes MS/MS, Q-TOF, TOF, and ICP-MS. The lab is ISO 15189 accredited and a recognised training site for the RCPA and University of Otago medical students.

Find out more about living and working in Ōtautahi Christchurch here

About you

To succeed in this role, you will ideally bring:

• Vocational registration (or eligibility) in Chemical Pathology with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ)
• Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (FRCPA) or equivalent
• Experience or strong interest in specialist biochemistry testing (e.g. mass spectrometry, endocrine, or toxicology)
• Interest in lipidology or running lipid clinics is desirable but not essential
• A passion for innovation, quality improvement, and teaching
• New fellows are welcome to apply - training and support will be provided

 For information about gaining MCNZ registration, visit: www.mcnz.org.nz/registration

 Working at Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is committed to delivering equitable, person-centred care. Our values put people first - Ko ngā tāngata, te mātua mahi - and we believe a diverse workforce brings the best care to our communities.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds including Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.

We offer:

• Flexible working arrangements where possible
• Ongoing professional development and support
• Access to academic and research partnerships
• A chance to live and work in one of NZ - s most liveable cities

How to Apply

Click Apply now to join a team shaping the future of pathology in Aotearoa.

For more information, contact:

Amy Walker - Recruitment Specialist | Email: Amy.Walker@tewhatuora.govt.nz 

We will review applications as they are received and may progress with suitable candidates before the closing date.