Corrections Officer - Rimutaka Prison

New Zealand Government; Wellington; On-site; NZD 70,019 - 82,013; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Starting salary $70,019 per annum

5 weeks annual leave

$4,000 shift allowance per annum

12 weeks fully paid training programme

Career progression opportunities

Free parking and on-site gym

Health & wellbeing benefits

Job summary

Ara Poutama Aotearoa – Department of Corrections in New Zealand seeks a Corrections Officer at Rimutaka Men's Prison to uphold security and support wellbeing. The role covers induction, daily routines, and mentoring inmates, with a strong emphasis on integrity and pro-social conduct.

All new officers complete a funded training programme: one week induction, six weeks at the National Learning Centre, then five weeks back on site, followed by ongoing development and opportunities for

Qualifications

• Solid interpersonal skills and ability to communicate clearly.
• Ability to operate with high levels of integrity.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and critical thinking.
• Effective in a culturally diverse setting and an understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Able to work rostered shifts across a 24/7 pattern, including weekends and public holidays.

Responsibilities

• Work inside prisons to ensure safety and wellbeing of people serving sentences or on remand.
• Induct individuals into units and guide them in adapting to life in prison.
• Supervise daily routines and support pro-social change in the community.
• Operate as part of a custodial team with training and development opportunities.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Integrity

Problem solving

Cultural competence

Shift work 24/7

Job description

Corrections Officer - Rimutaka Men's Prison

Kotahi anō te kaupapa, ko te oranga o te iwi. There is only one purpose to our work: the wellness and wellbeing of our people. Help to shape futures & make a difference in people's lives! Embark on a challenging & rewarding career. Free onsite parking & great staff facilities including gym.

About the Role

Corrections Officers work inside our prisons and are responsible for ensuring the security and wellbeing of people serving sentences or on remand. They induct people into their unit, help them to navigate life in prison, and supervise daily routines. By being prosocial role models, they also play a significant part in creating change and making our communities safer. The role varies across specialised units, security levels and site‑specific activities. All new officers attend an intensive, fully paid training programme to equip them with the necessary skills: an initial week‑long induction at the allocated prison site, six weeks at our National Learning Centre in UpperHutt, then five weeks back on site before graduating. From there the learning journey will be ongoing. Corrections Officers are part of a wider custodial team, with plenty of support and guidance available. Opportunities for professional development, promotion and the ability to gain a recognised qualification in Offender Management are provided.

About You

• Solid interpersonal skills and ability to communicate clearly.
• Ability to operate with high levels of integrity.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and critical thinking.
• Effective in a culturally diverse setting and an understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Able to work rostered shifts across a 24/7 pattern, including weekends and public holidays.

Skills and Experience

• Legal right to work in NewZealand or a Work Visa with at least 24months remaining.
• A full NewZealand Driver Licence (or eligibility to obtain one).
• Disclosure of any conflicts of interest and previous convictions.
• Pass a drug test.
• Medically fit for employment; completion of a Medical Assessment and Physical Readiness Assessment.
• Ability to work shifts on a rotating roster.

We prioritise applications from people with experience in a Kaupapa Māori or Pasifika environment and/or a willingness to learn. Please highlight relevant experience and/or language skills in your application.

Benefits

• Starting salary $70,019 per annum (increases with national qualifications: Level3 $74,697; Level3+ $76,697; Level4 $80,213; Level4+ $82,213).
• 5weeks annual leave.
• $4,000 shift allowance per annum.
• 12weeks fully paid training programme.
• Clear pathway for career progression and continuous learning.
• Free parking and on‑site gym facilities.
• Supportive team‑environment.
• Rosters provided 12months in advance.
• Health & wellbeing benefits: EAP, eye‑care benefits, health checks.

Company Information

Join Ara Poutama Aotearoa – Department of Corrections. As a values‑led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira, manaaki, wairua, kaitiaki, and whānau to guide our work and achieve the goals of our Hōkai Rangi strategy. We value inclusion and diversity in our workforce and are committed to building a workforce that reflects the public we serve.

EEO Statement

Applicants of all backgrounds, cultures and experiences are encouraged. We comply with all NewZealand employment laws and will not support visa applications for this role if the applicant does not already have the legal right to work in NewZealand. We encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.

Application Deadline

Applications close on Saturday31October2026.