Analytical Sciences Team Leader – 12 month contract

|Scientific & Pharmaceutical - Laboratory (Micro & Analytical)|Auckland

Analytical Sciences Team Leader – 12-Month Maternity Contract
Join Helius in the rapidly growing Medicinal Cannabis Sector!

Helius, New Zealand’s leading biotechnology firm specializing in medicinal cannabis research and development, is expanding. As the largest licensed producer in the country, they have a state-of-the-art facility in Auckland with indoor cultivation, extraction suites, and cannabinoid research and manufacturing operations.

About the Role: Helius are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Analytical Sciences Team Leader for a 12-month maternity cover. This role involves overseeing the analytical laboratory functions at Helius, including both Quality Control and Analytical R&D. You will lead a team of analytical chemists, manage laboratory operations, and provide essential support to R&D, Quality, and Operations.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead the analytical function, including scheduling and assigning tests for commercial material release.
  • Develop and validate analytical test methods and maintain test specifications.
  • Ensure proper maintenance and calibration of analytical equipment, including stability chambers and sampling booths.
  • Procure analytical reagents, standards, consumables, and equipment.
  • Manage the stability program for commercial products and new developments.
  • Support cleaning and process validation studies and R&D activities, including study designs and data interpretation.
  • Oversee the retention sample program and QC inspection of incoming materials.
  • Interpret test data and trends, providing actionable insights and guidance.
  • Continuously improve laboratory operations and efficiency.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert, providing guidance on QC and R&D analytical testing.
  • Support the broader Quality function through batch record review and eQMS management.

 
You, the Candidate: With this being a leadership position, Helius are in need of someone who can juggle multiple projects, liaise with and provide expert advice to stakeholders and is happy to contribute to various areas of the business when and where required. You will also possess the following skills and attributes:

  • Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Biology, or a related science.
  • Minimum of 5 years’ experience in the GMP pharmaceutical industry, with a focus on method development and validation.
  • Experience with R&D and medicinal cannabis is advantageous.
  • Strong work ethic, high emotional intelligence, and ability to work effectively with diverse teams.
  • Excellent attention to detail, ethical standards, and communication skills (both written and verbal).
  • Energetic, solution-oriented, and committed to continuous improvement.
  • Must have a clean criminal record, with no drug-related offences.
  • Ability to pass a comprehensive background security check.

Please note: You must hold a valid work visa, residency or citizenship in New Zealand to apply for this role.
 
Sound like you?
To apply for this role, please select the relevant ‘Apply’ button. Alternatively, please reach out to Maya Carpenter-Salvador. Email: maya@trs.co.nz
Apply now to be a key player in the rapidly growing medicinal cannabis industry with Helius!