Policy Adviser - Fixed term until June 2027

Intermediate-level Professionals – Fixed Term Foreign Policy Opportunity 

• Fixed Term through to 30 June 2027
• Contribute towards New Zealand’s global development impact 
• Support programme design, delivery, policy and performance 
• Wellington-based opportunity 

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in complex environments, builds strong relationships, and is passionate about delivering sustainable and inclusive outcomes across the Pacific and beyond. 

About the role - Kōrero mō te tūranga  

The Pacific and Development Group (PDG) is seeking to recruit fixed-term policy resource to support the delivery of our current and upcoming work programme. We require fixed term support on priority policies on Pacific and development issues. Fixed-term capability is required to support upcoming deliverables, on issues affecting human development in the Pacific. Candidates would ideally have experience working on key Pacific policy priorities such as health, education, youth, economics, security, climate.  

We require fixed-term support to deliver key programme objectives, drive high-quality outcomes, and ensure we can meet our commitments across a range of development and policy initiatives. We are looking for candidates with relevant experience and knowledge who can quickly contribute to priority work and support the successful delivery of PDG's strategic objectives. 

This is the ideal position for someone who thrives in complexity, builds strong relationships, and is passionate about delivering high‑quality policy and development outcomes 

We are looking for Advisers who can bring strategic insight, operational expertise, and a collaborative mindset to our team 

In this role, you’ll contribute to strategic investment planning, support programme delivery, and influence development outcomes through high‑quality advice 

You’ll work closely with Programme Managers, Advisers, design teams, suppliers, Pacific counterparts, and our Pacific Posts.   

 To view the position description for Policy Adviser, please click here. 

Successful candidates will be appointed based on their experience and assessed level. We expect to appoint between $93,542 to $111,679, inclusive of our KiwiSaver employer contribution.  

Who are we looking for? - Mā‎ wai te mahi nei?   

Candidates are expected to bring:  

• A minimum of three years’ professional experience and subject matter expertise in a relevant technical field such as foreign policy, international development, or international governance and institutions.   
• International Development policy or programme management experience, including in areas such as health, education, and humanitarian assistance, or a willingness to work in an international development focused role.  
• A Bachelor’s or Postgraduate Degree in a discipline relevant to the technical area/s identified, with demonstrated high achievement.  
• Aptitude for the Ministry’s work — analytical, adaptable, resilient, with strong written and verbal communication skills.   
• An ability to build and foster positive relationships with a range of domestic and international stakeholders.   
• A sound understanding of Mātauranga Māori and the Treaty of Waitangi / te Tiriti o Waitangi.   
• Proficiency in one or more languages other than English would be beneficial.  

You must also be:  

• A New Zealand citizen, and  
• Able to obtain and maintain a Confidential national security clearance.   

You can use this online tool to self-check your eligibility for a Confidential security clearance. Please note that this tool is not part of the formal security clearance process:  
  
http://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/eligibility-tool  

Why MFAT? - Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Aorere  

We are committed to a focus on leadership, talent, training and development. Check out our benefits page to find out more about why we love working here.  

MFAT is Rainbow Tick accredited. We value diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive culture where everyone feels supported, valued, and a sense of belonging.  We welcome applications from people from a diverse range of backgrounds.   

About us - Mō mātou  

Our people represent New Zealand on and offshore, and in doing so make New Zealanders safer and more prosperous.  By building connections with and influencing other countries and international institutions, we advance New Zealand’s interests and pursue New Zealand's values.  We provide advice to the Government on the implications for New Zealand of what is happening in the world and what to do about it.   

To Apply/Interested - Me pēhea te tuku tono  

 Applications close at midnight New Zealand time on Monday, 7 September 2026. 

For any queries on the recruitment process or issues applying, please email recruitment@mfat.govt.nz