Wellington-Based International Trade Law Advisor

Mfat; Wellington; Hybrid; NZD 91,000 - 108,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Rainbow Tick accreditation

Flexible work options

Job summary

MFAT in Wellington seeks a NZ-qualified lawyer to provide strategic legal advice on NZ's international trade matters and to engage with stakeholders across government and partners. The role supports trade priorities, including input into negotiating and implementing trade agreements and participating in WTO disputes.

You will work within the Trade Law unit, advising on frameworks and compliance, and coordinating with cross‑agency teams.

Qualifications

• NZ qualified lawyer with experience in international trade law or broader international law.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to connect with a range of stakeholders.
• Experience negotiating international trade‑related instruments and advising on trade policy.

Responsibilities

• Provide timely, strategically sound and accurate legal analysis and advice supporting NZ trade priorities.
• Negotiate international trade-related instruments and contribute strategic input to NZ's position.
• Provide legal advice on compliance with and implementation of NZ's international trade law rights and obligations.
• Contribute to involvement in WTO disputes and FTAs disputes.
• Demonstrate MFAT values in all aspects of work and engagement with stakeholders.

Skills

International trade law

Stakeholder engagement

Legal analysis

Written and verbal communication

Education

NZ qualified lawyer

Job description

MFAT in Wellington seeks a NZ-qualified lawyer to provide strategic legal advice on NZ's international trade matters and to engage with stakeholders across government and partners. The role supports trade priorities, including input into negotiating and implementing trade agreements and participating in WTO disputes.

You will work within the Trade Law unit, advising on frameworks and compliance, and coordinating with cross‑agency teams.