Occupational Therapist

New Zealand Government Joba; Auckland; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 106,000; Full time

Job summary

Ministry of Education, Te Tahuhu o te Matauranga, Auckland, is seeking an Occupational Therapist to support learners with high needs within our Learning Support team. You will observe, assess, and work closely with children and young people to promote inclusive education.

You will build the capability of families, teachers and parents to implement effective interventions, and coordinate environmental changes, equipment and technology as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy (or equivalent)
• Registered with the Occupational Therapy Board and hold a current practicing certificate
• Experience working with children/young people with diverse needs is desirable
• Ability to apply occupational therapy theory to inclusive educational settings
• Strong communication across students, families and teachers

Responsibilities

• Observe and assess children and young people with high needs
• Build capability of parents, teachers and families to support learning
• Identify environmental, equipment or tech needs to support learning
• Enhance inclusive practices in schools and educational settings
• Work as part of a trans-disciplinary team with other services

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Trans-disciplinary teamwork

Paediatric experience

Knowledge sharing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy

Registered with Occupational Therapy Board

Current practicing certificate

Job description

Help shape the future of education in New ZealandHelp shape the future of EducationWe work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomesOur organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.About this role | Mo tenei turangaAs an Occupational Therapist you will play a critical role in our region's Learning Support team by:Observing, assessing, and working closely with children and young people with high needsBuilding the capability of those who are best placed to support learning such as parents, teachers and familiesIdentify, set up and provide advice about the environmental changes, support, equipment and technology a child or young person may needEnhance inclusive practices in schools and other educational settingsWorking effectively as part of a trans-disciplinary team.Salary range: $69,966 - $106,016 per annum plus KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.For more details about the role, you can view the job description here.About you | Mohou akeTo be successful you will need:A Bachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy, or its accepted equivalent as required by the New Zealand Occupational Therapy BoardTo be registered with the Occupational Therapy Board and to hold a current practicing certificateAbility to apply specialist knowledge of occupational therapy theory and practice in the development of appropriate interventions in inclusive educational settingsPaediatric experience preferableAbility to share knowledge and skills to empower both the individual learner and those supporting themAbility to co-ordinate service provision in a multi-agency, trans-disciplinary settingExcellent communication and interpersonal skills and an ability to work effectively with children, young people and their families and teachers across a diverse range of settings.The ability to understand and apply the principles of Te Tirirti o Waitangi and tangata whenuatanga.The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.About our group and team | Matau ropu akeAt Te Tahuhu o te Matauranga, we work to provide services and support nationally, regionally and locally to the education sector, and in some cases, directly to akonga and whanau.We ensure that children and young people with additional needs are supported to achieve their full potential through education. Our Learning Support specialists work closely with families, whanau, caregivers, schools and early childhood educators in English and Maori medium settings and other agencies to help maximise learning outcomes and promote social inclusion.Our specialists tell us they value:\"The ability to make a positive difference in the lives of children, young people and their whanau and contribute to system wide change is a huge plus\"\"The Ministry offers a strong community of practice and the support of a large organisation, so I never feel isolated or alone\"\"I really value the ability to work closely with specialists from other disciplines. It enhances my own practice and thinking\".Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mo tenei mahi?If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the `apply' button. In your cover letter we'd like to know about you, your values, or anything else you'd like to share. We're keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.For further information, please contact at [e-mail] close: Midnight, Sunday, 18 October 2026.We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.