Harm Prevention Advisor
Wellington City Council
We're looking for a Harm Prevention Advisor (fixed term until May 2026) to support our operational responses in addressing the underlying drivers of harm in our communities. This role will be focused on our strategic and communities' response to homelessness, while also supporting work related to alcohol and drug harm reduction, and sexual violence prevention.
You'll play a vital role in shaping and supporting initiatives that strengthen community wellbeing and safety, with a particular emphasis on vulnerable groups.
The type of projects you would be involved in include:
- Developing internal training and resources for Wellington City Council (WCC) kaimahi who regularly engage with vulnerable communities—such as library staff, pool staff, park rangers, and others—to ensure they feel informed, confident, and supported in their roles.
- Reviewing and enhancing the current homelessness data collection, helping us expand its scope to better capture data across a wider area. You'll also contribute to strengthening our operational response to individual rough sleeping situations.
- Support the presentation of new lived-experience research on the experiences of wāhine Māori sleeping rough in a creative and accessible way—sharing insights with the wider community to promote understanding, empathy, and informed action.
About you:
We're seeking someone with a strong background in harm prevention within community settings, particularly in the areas of housing and homelessness. The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of the social services and homelessness landscape, along with insight into the complexities and challenges faced by individuals experiencing housing insecurity.
Collaboration is at the heart of our work. Therefore, experience in community development and working in partnership with external organisations is essential. We're looking for someone with excellent communication and interpersonal skills—someone who can build meaningful relationships and engage confidently with a diverse range of stakeholders.
You'll have the ability to think holistically, identifying both issues and opportunities. Creative problem-solving, adaptability, and strong initiative are key traits, as is a proactive approach to meeting changing needs and circumstances.
We are looking to appoint between $83,666 - $98,430 per annum depending on skills and experience.
About the team:
The Connected Communities team is passionate energetic and ready to deliver strong community outcomes in partnership with organisations and communities. We work hard to make sure Pōneke is a safe, inclusive and diverse city that enhances social wellbeing and reduces harm. We do this through the provision of advice, services and programmes to internal and external customers. We fund community initiatives that support social wellbeing and advocate for the needs of our communities to central government, working to ensure that our kaimahi and assets are safe.
Working for the Council offers you a range of benefits including 5 weeks annual leave, flexible working options, health and wellbeing support, Council staff discounts and a range of learning and development programmes and opportunities.
Applications close 15 June 2025. All applications must be submitted online - we will not accept emailed applications. All applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand. Please note that it is a requirement of this role to be able to obtain and maintain a Police vetting.
We may engage with applicants prior to the vacancy closing so encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible. If you have questions, please contact Millie Lambess, Acting Harm Prevention Team Leader, millie.lambess@wcc.govt.nz
Diversity:
We want your application to enable you to portray the real you. Skills are gained across many areas of our life, not just formal employment. If you can demonstrate the skills listed in the advert through whānau life, community or mahi aroha (volunteering) we encourage you to apply and share your story with us in your cover letter.
We welcome applications from all walks of life and like our workforce to reflect the diverse communities we serve.
Accessibility Support:
We want to make sure any accessibility requirements you may have, are well supported so the selection process is equitable for everyone. Please let us know if there are any adjustments or support, we can offer to make our process more accessible to you by emailing: recruitment@wcc.govt.nz
Apply Now
