Senior Inspector OPCAT | Wellington

Job Description

Mō te Tari o te Kaitiaki Mana Tangata – About the Ombudsman

The Chief Ombudsman works with his staff to help New Zealanders in their dealings with government agencies. The focus is on handling complaints against government agencies, undertaking investigations and inspections, and encouraging good administration. The Chief Ombudsman is independent and impartial, with the goal of fairness for all.

Mō tō mātou tira – About the team

The OPCAT team is responsible for monitoring the conditions and treatment of people detained in prisons, court cells, immigration facilities, and health and disability facilities such as intellectual disability and mental health units and secure privately run aged care facilities.

Mō te tūranga - About the role

The role of Senior Inspector OPCAT is to assist the Chief Ombudsman to monitor and inspect the treatment and condition of people in places of detention. You'll be a senior member of a team focused primarily on inspecting and monitoring the treatment of people in places of detention, including health and disability places of detention, prisons, immigration detention centres, and court facilities. 

You'll carry out inspections, leading some that are complex and challenging, gather evidence and contribute to reports and recommendations.  You'll be travelling across New Zealand with other staff on a regular basis. This may also include occasions of weekend and evening work when on Inspections.  You'll also assist with training, guidance and leadership for other staff, and the development of our work practices.

We currently have two Senior Inspector roles available, and can be based in either Wellington or Auckland.

He kōrero mōu – About you

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications and/or expertise and experience in the fields of – mental health, health care, law and/or prisons
• A proven ability to motivate, mentor, guide and train others
• Experience working with iwi, Māori and Pasifika / Knowledge of te reo Māori, tikanga Māori and te Tiriti o Waitangi
• Advanced monitoring, evaluation or inspection skills
• Proven analytical skills and a knowledge and understanding of human rights in New Zealand
• Experience in undertaking evidence based research and analysis, including conducting interviews and site visits to obtain key information
• Resilience, and the ability to navigate complex environments and competing demands

Te painga o te mahi tahi me mātou - Our benefits, what we offer

Becoming part of an exceptional team in a dynamic organisation, where the work is challenging and rewarding. Your development and growth will be nurtured, and your work recognised and valued.

• Genuine career progression opportunities and professional development through training and mentoring by senior members of your team
• Flexible working options
• Competitive remuneration
• Three extra Annual Leave days after 12 months of employment
• Onsite gym and personal trainer, free to all employees (Wellington Office)
• Three paid office holidays between Christmas and New Year
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Me pēhea te tono - How to apply

To apply, click on the ‘Apply Now' button where you will need to register through our online career centre, complete our application form and upload your CV and cover letter. For further information about this vacancy please email [email protected].

All applicants will have a legal entitlement to work in New Zealand. Appointees will be subject to a criminal convictions check and may be required to achieve and maintain a NZ Government (NZSIS) security clearance.

As the Ombudsman's role is to provide “fairness for all” New Zealanders, it is important that our staff represent New Zealanders from all walks of life. We value your individuality and how you can contribute to our team. We encourage applicants from all walks of life.

Depending on skills and experience the salary is expected to be between $108,181 to $141,987 with $135,226 being the midpoint.

This role may be based in Auckland or Wellington. Please note we are unable to consider 100% remote working for this role.

Applications close 5pm, 18 May 2025