Job Reference: TEC/1915317

Attachments:  Senior Human Resource Advisor 2026 - RD.pdf (PDF, 669KB)

Job Description

• Supportive HR team
• Salary range: $100,624 up to $118,381
• Wellington based role/CBD location

If you're looking for your “why”, then come and join us at TEC. We truly believe in the transformational benefits of education and vocational training and as a result we invest $3 billion a year in tertiary education and training and seek to lift the aspirations and skill bases of all New Zealanders from ages 7 to 74.

What will you be doing? / He angitūtanga

Reporting to the Manager HR, this permanent full-time role is one of two Senior HR Advisors providing end‑to‑end HR account management for approximately half of the organisation. You will work closely with people leaders and Deputy Secretaries to deliver practical, solutions‑focused HR advice and support.

As a small team, this is an ideal opportunity for a pragmatic and adaptable HR practitioner who enjoys working across a broad range of HR activities and building strong, trusted relationships with people leaders across the organisation.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing end‑to‑end HR advice across the employee lifecycle, including recruitment, employment agreements, performance management, disciplinary processes, change management, and exits.
• Supporting leaders to manage complex and sensitive employment matters, ensuring advice is consistent, fair, and aligned with TEC policies, employment legislation, and public service expectations.
• Contributing to change processes, including restructures, consultations, and implementation of organisational changes, with a strong focus on process integrity and people impacts.
• Building strong working relationships with people leaders, unions, and internal stakeholders, and supporting constructive engagement where required.
• Contributing to the development, review, and implementation of HR policies, frameworks, and initiatives, including those driven by legislative or Public Service Commission changes.
• Using HR data and insights to inform advice, identify trends, and support continuous improvement in people practices.
• Modelling and promoting public service values, Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments, and inclusive, respectful workplace behaviours.

What we are looking for / He kōrero mōu

• Solid experience in a generalist HR advisory role is essential
• Sound working knowledge of HR practices and legislative requirements including performance management, recruitment, remuneration, reward and recognition, health and wellbeing, employee relations, change
• Build effective relationships with our people leaders becoming trusted advisor so as to influence them in the execution of their people management responsibilities
• A cool head under pressure and the ability to maintain effectiveness in times of ambiguity and change
• Knowledge and experience working in the public sector is helpful but not essential

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

• Three additional (TEC Days) leave days
• Recognition of previous service in the public sector
• Flexible Working (not remote, 3 days office, 2 home)
• A motivated and supportive manager

How to Apply / Me pēhea te tuku tono

To view the job description and/or apply for the role, please click Apply for This Job or visit the TEC Careers Portal.

The closing date for this role is 7 April 2026. For more information or if you have any questions, please contact hr@tec.govt.nz.

Prior to the Tertiary Education Commission 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.