Senior Employment Lawyer – Education Sector NZ

New Zealand Government; Wellington; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 146,000; Full time

Job summary

New Zealand Government seeks an experienced employment lawyer to join the Education sector as Senior Solicitor (Employment Law) in Wellington. You will provide high‑quality legal advice across HR matters, including leave legislation and pay equity, and support collective agreement negotiations.

You will operate with autonomy, sound judgment and professionalism in demanding environments, engaging with a broad range of stakeholders while upholding public service standards.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of post-admission experience in employment law.
• Strong legal analytics and advisory skills for complex contexts.
• Experience in mediation and appearances before the Employment Relations Authority and Court.
• Ability to provide clear, practical, timely advice and engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Commitment to public service and ongoing professional development.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality employment law advice across the Ministry, including HR matters.
• Advising on leave legislation and pay equity issues.
• Support decision-making during collective agreement negotiations.
• Assist with mediation, ERA and Court proceedings as required.
• Operate with autonomy, sound judgment and professionalism in complex environments.

Skills

Employment law

Legal analysis

Mediation

Litigation

Stakeholder engagement

Research

Education

Law degree

Practising certificate

Job description

New Zealand Government seeks an experienced employment lawyer to join the Education sector as Senior Solicitor (Employment Law) in Wellington. You will provide high‑quality legal advice across HR matters, including leave legislation and pay equity, and support collective agreement negotiations.

You will operate with autonomy, sound judgment and professionalism in demanding environments, engaging with a broad range of stakeholders while upholding public service standards.