Performs routine medical laboratory tests and operates diagnostic laboratory equipment under the supervision of medical laboratory scientists and pathologists.

Operates equipment used in diagnosing and monitoring disorders of hearing, the heart, kidneys and nervous system, and in anaesthesia; undertakes and assists with medical analytical procedures and assists anaesthetists and surgical teams; records the electrical activity of the heart, from which the heart rate is measured and pattern and rhythm is interpreted; prepares and stains slides and tissue sections to study the cells of blood for histological examination; performs diagnostic tests on tissues and fluids and analyses the chemical constituents of blood, urine, faeces and tissues; tests for diseases by looking for the presence of antibodies and the products of immune response in samples; sets up, checks and maintains operating theatres, and anaesthetic workstations, life support machines and associated equipment; refers prescriptions to pharmacists and assists in preparing medications.

• Works inside in medical laboratory situations: at hospitals, private medical laboratories or commercial laboratories.
• Work spaces (laboratories) are generally adequately heated and ventilated and testing/analysis may be carried out in sterile conditions.
• Employees are likely to work with some dangerous chemicals and diseased/infectious human organisms as part of laboratory work. Wears safety clothing, gloves and utilises safe-handling and processes.

• Physical demand is light. Lifting, pulling or carrying is occasionally required but is unlikely to exceed the sedentary demand level.
• Sitting, standing and walking are frequently required.
• Bending, squatting, crouching or kneeling, twisting of the body or neck and stretching and reaching across are not significant requirements.
• Contact with skin irritants or water may be required on a frequent basis, especially if working with chemicals and specimens.
• Repetitive movements are not required except when occasionally keyboarding.
• Driving of vehicles is not required.
• Use of hand tools, hand-held objects and equipment is frequent.
• Mental skills necessary include technical, research, organisational, problem-solving and communication.

A New Zealand Register Level 5 or 6 qualification or at least three years relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 2). In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required. Registration or licensing may be required.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.