Schools' Liaison Officer

  • University of Otago
  • New Zealand
  • Jun 6, 2026
  •  

    Job Description:

    __________

    DIVISION OF EXTERNAL ENGAGEMENT | TE RINGA TORO
    COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES | RATONGA PĀRONGORONGO
    SCHOOLS' LIAISON OFFICE | TARI TAKAWAENGA KURA

    Who we are | Ko wai mātou

    Ranked within the top 1% of universities in the world, Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka recognises that its staff are the key to its success.

    The Tari Takawaeka Kura (Schools’ Liaison Office) is a team of 12 with offices in Auckland, Wellington and Dunedin. We visit secondary schools all over New Zealand during Terms 1 and 2 each year to let senior students know about the opportunities for living and learning at Ōtākou. Then we return in Terms 3 and 4 to help students plan their studies.

    The role | Te mahi

    As a Kaitakawaenga (Schools’ Liaison Officer) within Te Ringa Toroa (External Engagement Division), you will be instrumental in encouraging and helping secondary school students to enrol at the University, supporting them through the transition to tertiary studies.

    Alongside one other Liaison Officer and a Co-ordinator based in the Dunedin office, you will visit secondary schools across the Southland, Otago and Canterbury, informing intending students about all aspects of enrolment at Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka and about undergraduate student life in Dunedin. You will enjoy working with young people and have extensive experience in this area.

    Presenting to large groups of secondary school students in schools, as well as on a larger scale at Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka information evenings will appeal to you. You will regularly meet with intending students and their families, assisting them with their decision-making and helping them to plan the first year of their degree, as well as interacting with relevant university staff and departments on behalf of the wider Liaison team. You may have a background in teaching, career advising or counselling.

    Your skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

    To be successful in this role, you will need to demonstrate:
    • Relevant experience in advising, working with, and relating to teenagers and young adults of all cultures and the ability to work constructively and thoughtfully with them
    • Skill and enthusiasm for making effective, professional presentations to groups
    • A high level of writing, editing and proof-reading skills and the ability to learn and retain detailed information
    • A positive and collegial attitude, alongside excellent time management skills
    • Have a suitable knowledge and understanding of Te Reo Māori me ngā tikanga.

    Although not essential, you would ideally have an excellent knowledge of Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka and its courses, or the ability to quickly learn. Sound working knowledge of the current New Zealand secondary school curriculum and assessments, especially pertaining to Year 11-13 students, would also be an advantage.

    Further details | Pūroko

    This is a full-time (37.5 hours), permanent position. The role requires some evening work, and considerable out-of-town travel for which a vehicle is provided. You must hold a clean, full driving licence.

    The appointment range for this role is $107,320 to $115,834. Top of range is $124,348.

    You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.

    The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Children Act 2014. Candidates who successfully make the final stages of the recruitment process will be required to undergo a safety check.

    For further information or to discuss this role in confidence, please contact Rhonda Brodie, Head of Schools’ Liaison via the contact details below.

    Application | Tono

    To submit your application (including CV and cover letter) please click the apply button below. Applications quoting reference number 2600915 will close Wednesday, 17 June 2026.

    Applications may be reviewed as they are received. The University reserves the right to close this vacancy at any time.

    Additional Information

    Contact: Rhonda Brodie

    Position details: Job Description

    Further Information: Department Website

    Create an email with a link to this vacancy: Create email

    Location: About Dunedin



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