Solicitor – Department of Conservation – Wellington City, Wellington

• Contribute to conservation in Aotearoa and our kaupapa: Papatūānuku Thrives.
• Opportunity to be involved in a variety of legal practice areas.
• Join a supportive and collaborative team who support flexible working.

Te Papa Atawhai / Department of Conservation (DOC) are looking for a solicitor based in Wellington with at least 5 years legal or a combination of legal and other relevant experience. The primary focus of the position will be providing legal advice and support on RMA-related matters and legislative process.

The Legal Services Unit provides legal advice on many aspects of DOC’s business. We have 30+ lawyers throughout New Zealand, located in Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, Rotorua, Invercargill, Nelson & Hamilton. We cover a wide range of legal and Treaty of Waitangi related work. We deliver efficient and effective legal services focused on the Minister’s priorities and DOC’s stretch goals. We have strong relationships with DOC’s other business units and our Treaty partner.

He angitūtanga: About the Role

The focus of this role is to provide legal support to the Department on Resource Management Act matters. This will include providing legal input in drafting RMA submissions, notices of appeal and other court documents, appearing before councils, Boards of Inquiry and other decision-making panels on behalf of the Director-General and Minister on RMA matters; being the legal lead in RMA cases, including drafting legal submissions and briefing evidence, advising on legal issues regarding RMA and public law matters; and providing input and advice on departmental activities, legislation administered by the Department, and other agencies.

The work will also involve supporting conservation by providing legal input and advice on other departmental activities, legislation administered by the Department of Conservation and other agencies to our internal customers and business groups.

He kōrero mōu: What we are looking for

This is a varied and challenging role. With your four or more year’s practical legal experience you will have a sound knowledge of the justice system, the parliamentary and legislative system and public service administration. You will have provided advice to clients or have experience in conducting cases and appearing before Courts and Tribunals.

Strong analytical skills and the ability to communicate practical legal advice in a non-technical manner are essential. While you will be a committed team player, you will also be a self-starter and be able to work independently. A good understanding of the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi is a must.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What’s in it for you:
We offer a fantastic supportive and collaborative working environment. You would be joining a passionate workforce in a role that contributes to interesting and meaningful mahi.

We support development and career progression, providing on the job and formal learning opportunities. Te Papa Atawhai is committed to building a workplace where our differences are recognised, respected, and embraced. Our organisation’s success is dependent on our people feeling valued for their differences, empowered to contribute, and respected for what they bring to their role.

We would also consider a part time appointment of no fewer than 32 hours a week.

Tono ināianei | Apply now

To apply, submit your CV and a tailored cover letter (PDF) giving evidence of the competencies as set out in the role description.

Note – we ask that you address and give examples of the competencies related to the capability areas as set out in the relevant role description. They are considered in the shortlisting process and the interviews for shortlisted candidates will include being asked to demonstrate through examples how you meet the competency requirements.

Applications close at 5 pm on Monday, 18 April

The salary range for this position is $88,038 to $119,342 with the starting salary of the successful applicant being based on their relevant skills and experience.

For any enquiry, please contact Debbie Fahey, Senior Recruitment Advisor on 027 86 2746 or email dfahey@doc.govt.nz quoting vacancy DOC/100/2203.

COVID-19 Vaccination requirement – All employees are required to be vaccinated in line with our Vaccination Policy. New employees will be required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination prior to commencing employment.

Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory, including a valid work visa covering the whole period of employment if applying internationally.