Seasonal Field Technician

OSPRI is accepting applications for a Field Technician role based in the Marlborough region. This is a full-time, seasonal 8-month contract with the possibility of casual employment outside of the fixed term contract. 

Ko wai mātou - About OSPRI:

OSPRI is an integrated national disease management agency and a proud part of New Zealand’s agricultural sector. We play an important part in protecting New Zealand’s biosecurity system. We lead three major national programmes: TBfree, focused on eradicating bovine tuberculosis; MBfree, working to eliminate Mycoplasma bovis, and NAIT (National Animal Identification and Tracing), ensuring robust livestock traceability. Our work supports farmers, industry, and the wider economy by protecting New Zealand’s world-class primary sector. 

Our People Strategy vision is to have the most talented people doing their best work, feeling great about being a part of OSPRI.  We offer a great employee experience which aims to attract the best talent, builds the capability of our people, rewards and recognises them for their successes and gives them a strong sense of belonging. 

Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role: 

With OSPRI now leading the delivery of on-farm testing, we’re looking for a seasonal Field Technician to join our South Island team, based in the Marlborough region. 

If you enjoy working outdoors, building connections with farming communities, and making a real impact on New Zealand’s biosecurity, this role gives you the opportunity to be hands-on, and represent OSPRI out in the field.   

Day to day, this role will involve:  

• Travelling across the region and performing testing and sampling on cattle.  

• Contacting farmers to book in upcoming tests.  

• Accurately read and identify TB suspect stock and communicate findings on farm.   

• Conducting blood sampling and ensuring samples are handled in line with laboratory protocols.   

• Completing all administrative tasks accurately and efficiently. 

Kōrero mōu - About you:

We are looking for someone with a genuine appreciation for New Zealand’s agricultural sector. You will have a natural ability to connect with people, building trust with farmers by explaining processes clearly and handling sensitive situations with care and understanding. Your strong attention to detail will ensure you take pride in delivering accurate and reliable results in a streamlined manner.   

You will prioritise health and safety, working diligently to manage farm risks with care, integrity, and adherence to best practices.  You will be self-organised and delivery-focused, enabling you to work effectively under pressure and to a high standard. 

In addition, the successful candidate will have:   

• An industry qualification in agriculture, veterinary science, or a related discipline is desirable.   

• Relevant farming experience, including stock handling and stock behaviour.   

• Experience liaising with farmers.     

• Knowledge of relevant farming practices.   

• Strong problem-solving skills.   

• The ability to work collaboratively as part of a wider team.   

• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and relationship-building skills, with the ability to convey information to various audiences.    

• Computer literacy, with proficiency in using work-based technology systems and Microsoft applications.    

• Demonstrated ability to work without direct supervision.    

• Comfortable with frequent travel and working in a variety of on-farm situations.   

• A full driver's licence. 

Me pēhea te tono - How to apply:  

To apply, please include your cover letter and CV. Applications close at 4 pm, 28 January 2026. Interviews for this role may be held while the role is still open.  

Please note: Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory and this role requires a Ministry of Justice criminal history check and pre-employment drug and alcohol testing. 

OSPRI supports a workplace of diversity, equity, and inclusion where our people feel welcomed, valued, and supported to do their best work. If you need specific support or accessibility adjustments to enable you to take part in this application process, please don't hesitate to contact us.