Employment Relations Advisor

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is New Zealand's newest university and one of its most distinctive. Centred on students and grounded in knowledge that works, AUT is 5-star rated by QS, with more than 27,000 students and 4,000 staff based primarily across three Auckland campuses. It's a place of real opportunity, where the values of Pono, Tika and Aroha shape how talented, progressive people work together – and you'll feel that in the culture, in the collaboration and in the difference the work makes for students, communities and the world.

Our community is stronger because of the role Te Tiriti plays in how we operate, and because Māori and Pacific knowledge, leadership and contribution are central to who we are. We embrace diversity in all its forms and are proud to welcome people of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious and political beliefs, socio-economic situations and accessibility needs.

People and Culture is a strategic enabler of AUT’s mission, partnering across the University to build a high-performing, inclusive and future-focused workforce. We lift organisational performance through workforce strategy, strong leadership practices and a people experience that helps AUT’s strategy land. Guided by our People Plan, we build future capability by enabling people to thrive, strengthening belonging, and bringing our culture and values to life in everything we do.

The Opportunity | Te Whiwhinga mahi

We're passionate about creating positive workplace experiences and supporting our people to thrive. As our Employment Relations Advisor, you'll provide expert advice and support across a broad range of employment matters while building your experience in workplace investigations, collective bargaining, union engagement and policy development within a large and diverse organisation.

What we offer | Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou

At AUT you’ll be part of a values-led university with a strong, caring culture, flexible working, generous annual leave and support to thrive in your role and career. We provide the tools, trust, recognition frameworks and cultural capability development programmes to help you make a meaningful contribution. Learn more about ourcompetitive benefits tailored to all staff.

About you | Ko wai koe

As a professional staff member at AUT, you’ll help our university thrive by improving services, supporting students and staff and driving practical improvements across our campuses. We’re looking for people with energy, curiosity and openness to new ideas who bring a collaborative, adaptable approach and contribute to a positive workplace culture.

You’ll also bring cultural humility and respect for Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Indigenous peoples and diverse communities. Experience supporting Indigenous, equity or inclusion-focused initiatives is highly valued.

You are a resilient and pragmatic professional who can confidently navigate sensitive and complex workplace situations. You bring sound judgement, emotional intelligence and empathy to your work, building trusted relationships and collaborating effectively to achieve positive outcomes. You are proactive, highly organised and solutions-focused, with a genuine interest in employment relations and a commitment to continuing to develop your expertise in this area.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• At least three years' experience in Human Resources or a related field.
• A relevant tertiary qualification in Human Resources, Employment Relations, Business, Psychology or a related discipline.
• Experience supporting employment relations matters in a complex environment.
• Sound knowledge of New Zealand employment legislation and employment relations principles.
• Experience supporting investigations, disciplinary processes, grievances, dispute resolution or mediation activities.
• Strong communication, relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Excellent analytical, research and report-writing capabilities.
• The ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining a high level of accuracy and professionalism.
• A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and supportive of AUT’s Te Aronui journey.

How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono

Along with your CV, please submit a cover letter which a) explains why this role (and AUT) is of interest, and b) addresses how you feel you meet some, or all, of the key criterialisted above.

Please note - all applications must be submitted through the online application process on AUT’s careers website.

Further Information | Pārongo Anō

• Start Date: To be agreed with the successful candidate.
• Salary Ranges | Ngā Utu: $76,000 - $102,000 commensurate with the skills and experience of the successful candidate.
• For further information: Contact Caroline Cranston, AUT Recruitment Consultant - [email protected]

Closing Date | Te rā aukati: 16 September 2026

Job Reference | Tohutoro Mahi: 96618

*Full-time denotes 37.5 hours per week