Technical Writer

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 Learning and Agency Development (LAD) team delivers agency guidance activities and interventions, including responding to advice requests and developing guides and case notes to help inform the work of public sector agencies. The team is also responsible for both internal and external learning programmes, and seeks to review, streamline and lead continuous improvement of those programmes to deliver innovative and targeted learning that is fit for the future.

Mō te tūranga - About the role

We're looking for a keen and focused individual to develop high-quality guidance material for publication on specific aspects of:

• The Official Information Act 1982, and
• The Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987.

This will involve the scoping, planning and development of the guidance and supporting these through the review and approval process to the point of publication readiness.

You will work closely with the Manager Learning and Agency Development, your direct team members, and our legal team.

This role is 6 months fixed term in order to support the Learning and Agency Development team in meeting the demand for high quality technical guidance on relevant legislation.

He kōrero mōu – About you

To be successful in this role you will have:

• A relevant tertiary qualification (or equivalent work experience in a similar position), preferably in public or administrative law or related discipline.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills including demonstrated exceptional report/policy writing ability.
• The ability to express complex and controversial ideas and information to a range of different audiences, both in writing and verbally.
• Excellent analytical skills, and an ability to ensure key legal and evidential issues are addressed appropriately.
• Good understanding of current New Zealand public sector practice, the context in which public sector agencies operate, and the challenges they face.
• An understanding of the administration of government, including legal, regulatory and policy systems.
• Sound influencing and negotiation skills and experience; proven ability to work with managers and staff at all levels.
• A critical thinker with analytical rigour who can see things from a range of perspectives
• Preferably a good understanding of New Zealand's official information legislation.
• High degree of initiative and the confidence to make independent decisions as required.

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.

• Flexible working options
• Competitive remuneration
• Onsite gym and personal trainer, free to all employees
• 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.

The Office of the Ombudsman encourages and supports all our workers to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The current position of the Office however, does not require COVID-19 vaccination as a condition of this role. Please note that the Office may, if a risk assessment identifies the need, introduce a vaccination requirement for managing an epidemic.

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 $108,180 to $141,987 with $135,226 being the mid-point.

Applications close 5pm, 16 March 2025.