Policy Advisor

Role overview

Join MBIE in a purpose-led policy role where you’ll help shape work regulation in New Zealand. This permanent, full-time position is based in Wellington Central and offers the chance to work on matters that affect many New Zealanders, including minimum employment standards, the Holidays Act, parental leave, and health and safety regulation. The salary range is $75,114 to $93,724, plus KiwiSaver and wellness benefits.

What you’ll work on

You may contribute to policy projects at different stages, from drafting Bills and regulations to preparing advice and Cabinet papers for Ministerial priorities. You could also work alongside the regulator to support effective implementation of new legislation. The work is policy-heavy and often closely connected to legislation.

Openings are available in two policy teams: Employment Standards Policy and Sectoral Health and Safety Policy. Both roles are located in Wellington, and candidates based outside Wellington are not being considered.

About the teams

The Employment Standards Policy team advises the Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety on minimum employment standards and the broader system that supports those rights in practice. The Sectoral Health and Safety Policy team works on sector-specific issues and develops interventions that help businesses meet their health and safety obligations.

About the branch

The Workplace Relations and Safety Policy branch works collaboratively rather than through a rigid hierarchy. You’ll be trusted to provide advice, discuss it directly with Ministers where needed, and help lead a varied policy programme that spans multiple Ministers and attracts strong interest. The branch has a supportive, skilled, and engaged culture, with a strong focus on development and opportunities to broaden your experience across related teams and projects.

About the role capability

Policy Advisors here work on complex, high-profile government policy work. They use public policy expertise, strong communication, and influencing skills to work with a range of stakeholders. A solid understanding of public policy, the machinery of government, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles helps them contribute effectively to outcomes for New Zealand. There are also opportunities to learn from specialists and further build policy craft across different workstreams.

Skills and experience

We are seeking motivated policy professionals with at least 1 year of policy experience who can think critically, solve problems logically, and develop high-quality policy advice. Experience in public policy is preferred, though transferable capability from advisory, legal, or similar work may also be relevant. An understanding of economic principles and the New Zealand economy would be helpful, but it is not essential.

How to apply

To be considered, you’ll need to submit a CV and a cover letter explaining why you are a strong match for the role. Applications must be completed through the online application process. If you have questions, contact Dorinda Te Kiri at [email protected] and quote reference MBIE/19696. Applications close on 28 June 2026.

About MBIE

MBIE aims to support a resilient, high-performing economy that improves quality of life for all New Zealanders. The organisation works to strengthen productivity, competitiveness, job opportunities, and housing affordability, with people and values at the centre of its approach.

Values and Te Tiriti commitment

MBIE’s values are Mahi Tahi – Better Together, Māia – Bold and brave, Pae Kahurangi – Build our Future, and Pono Me Te Tika – Own It. Its Māori identity, Hīkina Whakatutuki, reflects the idea of lifting together to achieve success. MBIE is committed to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and to building enduring partnerships with iwi, Māori, other Māori organisations, and the Crown to support economic and social development across Aotearoa New Zealand.