Senior Solicitor - Employment Law

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

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 outcomes.Our 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 turangaThis is a unique opportunity for an experienced employment lawyer to contribute to Aotearoa's education system.This role sits within the Employment Law team in Legal Privacy. This specialist team is responsible for providing employment law and related advice and support across the Ministry, including supporting bargaining, collective agreement interpretation, and litigation.As a Senior Solicitor (Employment Law), you will provide high‑quality, practical legal advice in a complex operating environment. In addition to advising on internal HR matters, your work will involve advising on leave legislation and pay equity, and will support decision‑making during collective agreement negotiations.You will be trusted to operate with a high degree of autonomy, sound judgment, and professionalism in matters that are often complex and demanding.Salary range: $120,171 - $145,560 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 akeWe are looking for an experienced employment lawyer who combines strong technical capability with empathy, sound judgment, and a commitment to public service.You will bring:Ideally, 6+ years of post-admission experienceStrong legal analytical skills, with experience in employment law, complex advisory work, litigationThe ability to provide clear, practical, and timely advice in complex and evolving contextsExcellent relationship‑management and communication skills, with the confidence to engage constructively with a wide range of stakeholdersStrong research, organisational, investigative, analytical, and problem-solving skillsExperience in mediation and in appearing before the Employment Relations Authority and Court.A commitment to ongoing personal and professional developmentTertiary qualification in law and the ability to hold a practicing certificate issued by the New Zealand Law SocietyThe ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.Experience in the public sector and/or advising on bargaining will be an advantage. Applications from lawyers with fewer than 6 years of post-admission experience but with relevant public sector and/or bargaining-related experience can be considered.About our group and team | Matau ropu akeTe Pou Rangatopu | Corporate is responsible for a range of support functions that enable other Ministry areas to focus on the delivery of excellent and equitable outcomes for users of the education system. The functions within the group are focused on providing responsive services and solutions that enhance Ministry staff experience and maintain and grow public trust and confidence in the Ministry to deliver.The Legal team sits within Te Pou Rangatopu | Corporate and enables Education to undertake its functions lawfully by providing quality legal services.Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mo tenei mahi?If this opportunity interests you, please submit your Resume and Cover Letter by using the `apply now' 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 Antoinette Russell, Legal Manager - Employment Law, at [e-mail] close at 11.59pm on Monday, 23 November 2026NB: applications will be considered as they are received.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.