Job Opportunities in New Zealand

Job Type: Permanent

Location: Wellington, NZ

Help shape the future of Education

We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes

Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our learners in our education system.

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

We are looking for an exceptional solicitor to join the Ministry’s Public Law team.

The Public Law team provides legal advice and support to the Ministry across operational advice in relation to education legislation, contracting and procurement, human rights, official information and privacy, the development of policy and legislation, the Treaty of Waitangi/te Tiriti o Waitangi, and dispute resolution and litigation.

You will provide general legal support and advice across the Ministry with a focus on policy, regulatory and operational issues in education.

As a Solicitor or Intermediate Solicitor, Public Law you will:

• Provide general legal support and advice to the Ministry’s regulatory and operational teams on the application of education legislation to the early childhood and schooling education sectors.
• Support the development, implementation and monitoring of education policy and legislation, including involvement in the early learning regulatory system review.
• Prepare, draft and/or review agreements and memorandum of understanding relating to sector funding, information sharing and privacy.

Salary Bands: Solicitor (up to 3yrs PQE) $84,425 - $102,271 per annum + 3% Kiwi Saver. Intermediate Solicitor (3+yrs PQE) $99,496 – $120,690 per annum + 3% Kiwi Saver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.

We also offer:

• Flexible working arrangements where everyone feels valued & supported.
• The ability to purchase extra days leave.
• A range of employee network groups.
• An inclusive environment that encourages your personal cultural competency journey.
• Development and learning, including mentorship programmes and internal secondments.
• Wellness initiatives to support your overall health and wellbeing.

About you | Mōhou ake

This is a varied and challenging role. The ability to work collaboratively with others to achieve results is essential. Knowledge of the New Zealand system of government, including the role of Ministers, Cabinet, Parliament and central agencies is a must. We are looking for a committed team player who is a self-starter with a high-level of integrity, flexibility, agility, and responsiveness to undertake work within the Public Law team’s ambit. Experience working in a legal role is desirable. In addition, we are keen to hear from people with the following attributes:

• Minimum 2-year PQE or other relevant experience.
• Tertiary qualification in law and the ability to hold a practicing certificate issued by the New Zealand Law Society.
• A strong client service attitude, with sounds relationship skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Knowledge of the impact of the Treaty of Waitangi/te Tiriti o Waitangi and its principles on the Ministry’s work.
• Basic research, organisational, investigative, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• A commitment to ongoing personal and professional development.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, and anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.

For further information, please contact Matthew Kidd, Legal Manager – Public Law at matthew.kidd@education.govt.nz.

Applications close Midnight – Sunday 6 October 2024, but will be considered as they are received.

We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.