R&D Scientist

About the role

ALS is expanding its Commercial Research and Development team and is hiring an experienced R&D Scientist for its Hamilton site in Waikato, New Zealand.

In this position, you will support customers in New Zealand, Australia, and other international markets across research, product development, compliance, and safety-focused programmes. The work spans several sectors, including honey, dairy, environmental services, food production, nutraceuticals, and research testing.

What you will do

• Work directly with clients to understand technical problems and project needs.
• Assess possible analytical approaches and prepare quotations for proposed work.
• Design and validate methods using advanced laboratory platforms such as LC-MS/MS, LC-HRMS, HPLC, IC, and GCMS, while meeting the required standards.
• Test a broad variety of samples, collaborate with experienced technicians, and produce reports for clients as well as regulatory purposes.

What success in this role looks like

You will need to solve problems effectively, communicate clearly, manage your time well, and deliver work independently without close supervision. The role also involves handling multiple projects at once while staying focused on quality and deadlines.

What we are looking for

ALS is seeking a scientist who will contribute well to a supportive, energetic team and align with the company’s values of technical excellence, customer service, honesty, curiosity, resilience, and teamwork.

The ideal candidate brings postgraduate science training or comparable experience in a relevant life science field, along with a strong background in commercial analytical testing or a similar science and technology environment. You should also have a track record showing innovation, creativity, and efficient delivery.

Working at ALS

ALS describes itself as a diverse, dedicated global team focused on scientific testing and data-led insights that contribute to a healthier future. The company says it supports people in building broad careers through learning opportunities and development programmes.

The organisation aims to provide a safe, flexible, and rewarding workplace that positively affects employees, the planet, and the wider community.

Inclusion and accessibility

ALS is an equal opportunity employer and values inclusive hiring. It welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability and can provide reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process if requested.

Eligibility

To work at ALS in New Zealand, you must be a citizen or permanent resident of the country, or hold — or be able to obtain — a valid work visa.

How to apply

Submit your application online with a resume and cover letter that clearly show your motivation and your ability to meet the role’s requirements.

Key experience and capabilities

This role calls for a confident communicator with strong interpersonal skills and a good work ethic, someone who is trusted by colleagues as a solid team player. You should be self-driven, able to take ownership of an entire project from enquiry through to presentation of results, and comfortable seeking assistance when needed to achieve the best outcome.

A commercial and customer-first mindset is important, along with the ability to keep clients informed promptly if issues or delays arise. The role also requires confidence presenting project outcomes to a variety of audiences, familiarity with modern analytical chemistry tools, and comfort using computers and software such as spreadsheets, word processing tools, LIMS, and instrument software.