Job Description

Associate Advisor Operational Policy & Implementation Kaitohutohu, Kaupapahere me te Whakatinanatanga

Te Amorangi Mātauranga Matua, the TEC - is a small Crown agency with a big job to do - ensuring New Zealanders have the skills and the knowledge they need to build a great life, and ensure New Zealand thrives. We invest over $3 billion annually across the tertiary education and careers systems.

We are looking for an Associate Advisor to join our Operational Policy & Implementation (OP&I) team. This role is pivotal in ensuring that operational policy solutions are fit-for-purpose, align with policy intent, and support successful implementation across the tertiary education sector.

Help us bring policy into reality, to drive better outcomes for learners and whānau, employers and communities. 

This is a strictly Wellington-based role and is fixed term through to 26 June 2026. The reason for this fixed term is to backfill another staff member who has been seconded to another role within TEC.

He kōrero mōu What we are looking for:

Our Operational Policy & Implementation group designs operational policy to implement government strategy and priorities with impact across tertiary education, careers and the lives of New Zealanders.

We're seeking an Associate Advisor to join our collaborative and supportive group to work on tertiary education funding operational policy and support the ongoing management of our detailed funding policy settings. In this role your mahi could include: 

• Supporting the team with operational policy work, including advice, design and implementation across a range of projects and strategic priorities. Tasks could include supporting with:
• Drafting and reviewing memos, board papers, technical guidance, website content and query responses
• Developing assessment criteria, their supporting guidance and new/improved business processes
• Providing and coordinating implementation advice to our government education partners on policy proposals
• Managing the internal operational policy queries mailbox
• Undertaking administrative and coordination tasks to support the smooth delivery of the team's workplan and ensure effective implementation of operational policy
• Supporting the development, implementation, and interpretation of service approaches, funding conditions and operational policy rules
• Using effective communication to implement changes
• Working across TEC and with other government agencies, networking and collaborating to develop fit-for-purpose operational policy solutions.

We are looking for a person who has:   

• a proactive attitude and passion for learning and development.
• great written and relationship skills, with the ability to communicate clearly with a range of people.
• an inquisitive and collaborative mindset with a focus on outcomes.
• an interest in understanding government structures and processes and the tertiary education sector - prior experience is desirable but not essential.
• ideally, someone with previous experience in operational policy, strategic policy, or implementation design (but we welcome those keen to develop these skills).

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou What's in it for you:

• A range of benefits including flexible working options
• A motivated and supportive manager and leadership team, keen to make the most of your skillset
• Reduced premiums through our Health Insurance Group Scheme
• A focus on career development and internal opportunities
• At TEC we are committed to supporting a range of flexible working arrangements to help staff manage their work and personal commitments; we expect team members to be in the office at least three days per week to help collaboration.

Salary range for this role is $63,492 up to $74,697 + 3% KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.

Me pēhea te tuku tono How to apply 

If this sounds like you, please click Apply For This Job or visit the TEC Careers Portal. You'll need to send us a tailored cover letter and CV that describes how you offer the skills and experience we are looking for. 

The closing date for this role is 11:59pm 11 December 2025. For more information or if you have any questions, please contact hr@tec.govt.nz. 

Applicants must have the ability to obtain and maintain the legal right to work in New Zealand.  

Prior to TEC confirming any offer of employment, pre-employment checks will be undertaken including criminal conviction history and reference checking as a minimum. 

The TEC is an equal opportunity employer and committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. Your unique talents and experience will help us deliver exceptional services to New Zealand. We look forward to your application.