Lawyer

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te Tari o te Kaitiaki Mana Tangata – About the Ombudsman

The Chief Ombudsman works with his staff to help New Zealanders in their dealings with government agencies. The focus is on handling complaints against government agencies, undertaking investigations and inspections, and encouraging good administration. The Chief Ombudsman is independent and impartial, with the goal of fairness for all.

Mō tō mātou tira – About the team

The Legal team is responsible for all legal advice and services to the Ombudsman. Most of the work involves legal support for the Ombudsman's core functions (including under the Ombudsmen Act 1975, the Official Information Act 1982, the Crimes of Torture Act 1989 and the Protected Disclosures Act 2000), but the team is also responsible for legal input into corporate and governance matters.

There are currently four experienced Lawyers and an Administrator in the team.

Mō te tūranga - About the role

You will provide specialist legal support across all areas of the Ombudsmen's jurisdiction and functions drawing on support from the wider Legal team where necessary.  You will be providing advice directly as well as supporting the more experienced lawyers in the team with complex work.

He kōrero mōu – About you

This role would be ideally suited to someone with at least 2 years practicing experience who is keen to hone their public and administrative law skills in a supportive and stimulating legal environment.

To be successful in this role you will be a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand and eligible to obtain a current practising certificate as well as:

• Two years recent post admission experience as a lawyer, in the private or public sector, domestically or overseas
• Experience in delivering high quality and timely legal advice
• Excellent legal research skills
• Knowledge of public, constitutional and administrative law and experience in their practice
• A proven ability in managing internal and external relationships with a variety of stakeholders in a challenging environment.
• General experience or interest in corporate/commercial and employment law would be advantageous

Te painga o te mahi tahi me mātou - Our benefits, what we offer

Becoming part of an exceptional team in a dynamic organisation, where the work is challenging and rewarding. Your development and growth will be nurtured, and your work recognised and valued.

• Genuine career progression opportunities and professional development through training and mentoring by senior members of your team.
• Flexible working options
• Competitive remuneration
• Three extra Annual Leave days after 12 months of employment
• Onsite gym and personal trainer, free to all employees
• Three paid office holidays between Christmas and New Year
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Me pēhea te tono - How to apply

To apply, click on the ‘Apply Now' button where you will need to register through our online career centre, complete our application form and upload your CV and cover letter. For further information about this vacancy please email recruitment@ombudsman.parliament.nz.

All applicants will have a legal entitlement to work in New Zealand. Appointees will be subject to a criminal convictions check and may be required to achieve and maintain a NZ Government (NZSIS) security clearance.

As the Ombudsman's role is to provide “fairness for all” New Zealanders, it is important that our staff represent New Zealanders from all walks of life. We value your individuality and how you can contribute to our team. We encourage applicants from all walks of life.

Depending on skills and experience the salary is expected to be between $77,306 and $101,464, with $96,632 being the midpoint.

Applications close 5pm, 30 March 2025