Investigator

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te Tari o te Kaitiaki Mana Tangata – About the Office of 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 public administration. The Chief Ombudsman is independent and impartial, working towards fairness for all New Zealanders.  

Mō tō mātou tira – About the team

Investigators in the Complaints Resolution Group work with the Chief Ombudsman to independently investigate and review complaints about the administrative conduct of public sector agencies, or decisions made by public sector agencies that affect people. Teams focus either on early resolution, or on more complex, longer investigations. This is a busy and exciting time to be part of the Complaints Resolution Group.

Mō te tūranga - About the role

As we deal with complaints relating to the full range of central and local government agencies, there will always be more to learn and no day will be the same! You could be providing initial assistance one day then undertaking detailed investigations the next.

As an Investigator you will deal with challenging work that requires you to utilise a resolution-focussed approach. Your analytical and investigative skills are critical to achieving meaningful outcomes in your work.

Your ability to relate to and show empathy to people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, world views is crucial to success in the role, as you will be dealing with a variety of stakeholders, while also building cohesive relationships within your team and the wider organisation.

The work is challenging, varied, and fast-paced and requires judgment, integrity and resilience. However won't be doing this alone as in addition to being part of an established supportive team of professionals, you will join alongside a new cohort of investigators who will be working and learning beside you.

There are four roles in total available, 3 permanent and 1 12-month fixed term.

These roles may be based in Wellington or Auckland.

He kōrero mōu – About you

To be successful in this role ideally you will have:

• Experience in investigations, complaint handling and/or other dispute resolution activities, including an understanding of core investigation principles and standards (ideally you will have at least 2 to 3 years' experience in a relevant role).
• A legal or other relevant tertiary qualification, or equivalent work experience in public law, political science or other related fields.
• Knowledge of practice and procedure in central or local government, or of the wider public sector.
• Experience gathering, analysing and presenting information, establishing facts and applying critical thinking to complex and varied scenarios.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven ability to deal with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders, and the ability to remain calm and focused when dealing with aggrieved parties.
• Excellent time management skills, the ability to perform under pressure, and to set priorities and meet deadlines under changing conditions.

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.
• Two extra Annual Leave days after 12 months of employment.
• 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.

The appointment range for this role is between $85,134 and $111,739 (with $106,418 being the mid-point) and the appointment will depend on the skills and experience of the successful candidate.

Applications close 5pm 7 April 2024