Policy Advisor (Level 1) | Wellington City

Job Description

Policy Advisors Level 1 (Permanent)

National Office – Wellington

Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini.

Success is not the work of one, but the work of many.

Te Haeata/The Opportunity 

Do you want the opportunity to hone your policy expertise and contribute to solving complex issues that impact New Zealand's legal and justice systems?  

We are seeking early-career Policy Advisors (Level 1), to work alongside and learn from more experienced policy practitioners to develop timely and accurate analysis and policy advice.

Your day-to-day responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Developing discrete pieces of policy advice in a timely manner
• Identifying and analysing issues to contribute to the development of policy advice
• Gathering research and summarising information
• Ensuring policy advice is clearly communicated both verbally and in written form

We are looking for enthusiastic advisors seeking to develop their careers. We currently have several permanent positions available.

Te āhuatunga a te tūranga / About the role

Our work in the Policy Group is wide ranging, with opportunities to shape thinking and drive legislative change across the justice sector and all of government. We work at the interface of the executive, parliamentary and judicial branches of government. Our work is interesting and challenging, with a chance to apply your critical thinking and relationship management skills.

Successful candidates will be appointed to the Policy Group. We expect to initially place successful candidates in roles in the Civil and Constitutional Unit and the Courts and Justice Services Policy Unit, with the opportunity to move to other units within the Policy Group in future as required.

Civil and Constitutional Unit

The Civil and Constitutional Unit focuses on policy issues related to the regulation of firearms,  civil law, privacy protections, constitutional arrangements, the electoral system, and human rights. Work in the Unit is varied, underpinned by a strong focus on the rule of law, representative democracy and open government, honouring Te Tiri o Waitangi, the separation of powers, upholding the Bill of Rights and progressing human rights.

The Unit is currently leading a number of high-profile legislative reforms, including changes to electoral law, and reforms of the Arms Act, as well as preparing for a several United Nations international engagements.  

Courts and Justice Services Policy Unit

The Courts and Justice Services Policy Unit has an important and ambitious programme of work to improve court timeliness and people's experience in the justice system. The Unit works to strengthen trust in the laws of Aotearoa New Zealand, administering and providing advice on the legal frameworks, systems and policies that underpin courts and tribunals, family relationships, access to justice and the provision of legal services.

Ō pūkenga/Skills and Experience

To be successful in this role, you will be able to demonstrate:

• Relationship skills – Do you have strong skills in engaging with diverse internal and external stakeholders, learning from their perspectives as well as influencing them?
• Problem solving skills – Can you think analytically and critically? Do you find complex problems interesting, and have a knack for solving them?
• Communication skills – Are you an excellent communicator? Can you write clearly, in a way that simplifies complex information? Do you ask questions to improve your understanding? 
• Advisory skills – Do you have knowledge of machinery of Government and public policy?
• Work management skills – Are you able to plan, prioritise, and organise work to deliver on short and long-term projects?

In return, we will:

• Prioritise your well-being and professional development ensuring you are coached by experienced policy professionals, and
• Provide opportunities to work with others on a broad range of intellectually challenging policy problems.

The successful candidates will have a relevant tertiary qualification (Bachelors a minimum) in a relevant field or equivalent knowledge, skills, and experience.  A legal background, and an awareness of Justice policy issues would be an advantage but is not essential. Treaty of Waitangi/te Tiriti o Waitangi analysis skills are also highly desirable.

Applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand. All roles are based at the National Office in Wellington.

Mō mātou/About us

At Te Tāhū o te Ture - the Ministry of Justice, we're committed to working together for a fair and safe Aotearoa.

Joining the Ministry of Justice means you will become part of an inclusive organisation that values you and the communities we serve. It's our promise to ensure our workplace is one where our people feel healthy and safe, supported and able to be themselves at work. We value respect as the foundation for building a positive workplace culture and one where diversity is welcomed and celebrated.  

Ngā painga o tēnei wāhi mahi/What's great about working here

We offer you a range of benefits to support your wellbeing and help make the Ministry a great place to be. These include:

• 4.4 weeks holiday leave
• flexible work hours where possible
• an online professional development portal
• access to a variety of inclusive and proactive networks

See our full range of benefits here.

With a wide range of jobs, you also get the chance to gain a variety of skills and experience while developing your career.

Utu ā-tau/Salary

The appointing salary for this role will be between $66,066 to $90,008, based on skills and experience.

Tono mai/Apply

To apply, click the Apply button below to be directed to our Careers Website. You can view detailed position description here, as well as complete an online application form by attaching your CV and cover letter.

Applications close on Wednesday, 10 September. 

If you have any questions please contact recruitment@justice.govt.nz

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