HR Adviser

HUMAN RESOURCES DIVISION | TE WĀHANGA MATUA PŪMANAWA TANGATA

Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka

The University of Otago | Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka has been a renowned place of learning and discovery for more than 150 years. We strive to become an even more successful, globally influential university, committed to upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi as we advance outstanding research and research-informed teaching to enable transformative learning and student experiences.

Our Vision/Ko te Aronga is for our people and knowledge to transform lives, connect communities and nurture the environment in Ōtākou, Te Waipounamu, Aotearoa, the Pacific, and the world.

This is a rare opportunity to be part of a collaborative and dedicated HR team. We are looking for an experienced and confident HR generalist, who enjoys working independently to develop pragmatic HR solutions for clients, to join us.

The role | Te mahi

Working closely with the Divisional HR Manager and full-time HR Adviser, you will provide generalist HR advice and support to clients within the Operations Division.

This will involve the provision of HR technical guidance and support on a range of matters including disputes resolution, restructuring and workplace change, personal grievances, management of conduct and capability, training and development, and effective implementation of employment agreements, policies, procedures and best practice.

You will have the support of a comprehensive HR infrastructure, and colleagues both within the HR Advisory team and across the wider Human Resources Division.

Your skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

We are looking for a professional who will champion our values: Manaakitaka/Respect, Pono/Integrity, Māhirahira/Curiosity and Whakawhanaukataka/Community.

You will also have:

• Well-developed understanding of HR processes and policies.
• Several years of recent experience in a generalist HR role.
• Excellent knowledge of NZ employment legislation and its application.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including a level of comfort with complex or challenging situations.
• Dedication to working in a culturally safe and respectful manner, including understanding and appreciation of Te Ao Māori, Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles, and Pasifika values.

You will be an effective communicator and facilitator, with proven success in building effective professional relationships and proven conflict resolutions skills.

A Tertiary qualification in a relevant field is desirable.

Further details | Pūroko

This role is a part-time (22.5 hours per week), fixed term (12 months) position within the Operations Division, based in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.

The appointment salary range for this role is $96,587 to $105,532. Top of range is $114,474, pro rata, per annum.

We offer an amazing team environment, 5 weeks’ annual leave (pro rata), a 6.75% superannuation scheme, and excellent professional development opportunities.

The University of Otago is a workplace that values and utilises diverse and inclusive thinking, people and behaviours. This means that the contributions of staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills and perspectives are valued and respected.

You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.

Application | Tono

To submit your application (including CV and cover letter) please click here. 

Applications quoting reference number 2601380 will close on Tuesday, 22 September 2026.

Applications may be reviewed as they are received. The University reserves the right to close this vacancy at any time.

Note: As a part-time position, the salary range for this role will be the pro-rata equivalent of the annual full-time salary range listed.

Apply now