Ground every answer in facts on this page and the original listing. We never invent Glassdoor-style reviews or salaries that are not in our data.
Be ready to discuss reliable attendance, following SOPs, and calm handling of animals under supervision. Examples of accurate record-keeping, hygiene discipline, and teamwork in busy lab or clinical environments are more useful than generic soft-skill answers. Ask how the unit is structured, what training is given before independent tasks, and how after-hours or weekend cover works if applicable.
This role suits people who want hands-on animal care support in a university setting in New Zealand, not remote work. Strong fits value consistency, careful observation, and comfort with physical facility routines; it is less suited if you need fully flexible location or pure desk research without animal contact.
As an Assistant Animal Care Technician at the University of Otago, a typical day centres on routine animal husbandry support in a university research or teaching setting: cleaning and preparing housing, providing feed and water, checking animals for basic welfare signs, and recording care tasks as directed. You would usually work under senior technicians or facility staff, follow biosecurity and animal ethics procedures, restock supplies, and help keep rooms and equipment clean. Expect early or fixed facility hours, physical work, and clear escalation when an animal looks unwell.
No. The listing is on-site in New Zealand, consistent with animal facility work that requires physical presence.
Support daily care and hygiene for animals used in teaching or research, under more senior staff, including cleaning, feeding, basic checks, and documentation.
Confirm the campus or facility site, hours or roster, species and unit type, required checks or clearances, and whether prior animal-care experience is essential or trainable.
Assistant Animal Care Technician at University of Otago | New Zealand What This Role Involves The role as an Assistant Animal Care Technician involves a diverse set of responsibilities within the BiomediCal Research Facilities division. You will be responsible for animal husbandry and ongoing care, which includes daily tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and monitoring the health and well-being of various animals. This position requires attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards in animal care. Your Responsibilities Provide daily animal husbandry and care activities including feeding, cleaning, and environmental maintenance. Monitor the health status of animals and report any concerns or changes to supervisors promptly. Assist with routine veterinary procedures under supervision. Ensure compliance with all relevant animal welfare regulations and institutional policies. Participate in training programs for continuous professional development. Skills & Qualifications A passion for animal care and a commitment to ethical standards. Basic knowledge of animal husbandry and veterinary practices. Ability to work independently as well as part of a team. Good communication skills, both written and verbal. Physical fitness and the ability to lift and move heavy equipment. Working at University of Otago The University of Otago is committed to providing a supportive work environment that values diversity and inclusion. As an Assistant Animal Care Technician, you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to advancing biomedical research. The role offers the opportunity for professional growth through ongoing training and development programs. How to Apply To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there. Please ensure all required information is provided in your application. To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there.
Generated for personal interview prep · 2026-08-05 UTC · getajob.ai