Mediator (Employment)

Role overview

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is seeking an experienced employment mediator to help resolve workplace relationship issues and disputes. This permanent, full-time position is based on Victoria Street in Wellington and offers a salary range of $96,453 to $121,196, plus KiwiSaver and wellness benefits.

In this position, you will work under the Employment Relations Act to support the resolution of employment relationship problems and promote constructive working relationships. Depending on the situation, you may work with parties individually or together, and conversations may take place face-to-face, online, or by phone.

The team sits within the Dispute Resolution group, which provides an impartial service to employees, employers, businesses, and their representatives, including unions, across New Zealand. The work is grounded in multi-partiality and aims to support fair and accessible dispute resolution.

What the role involves

You will be handling matters involving people in conflict and guiding them through a process that is respectful, culturally responsive, and inclusive of different needs. The job calls for a practical approach to dispute resolution, along with a solid understanding of employment relationships and workplace behaviour.

This role may require travel within New Zealand as needed.

Candidate profile

MBIE is looking for someone with strong mediation capability and good knowledge of New Zealand employment law. Experience in industrial relations would be beneficial.

The successful candidate will need to be confident working in sensitive situations, comfortable engaging with people from varied backgrounds, and able to communicate clearly and professionally. You should be empathetic, able to listen actively, and capable of staying neutral while working through opposing viewpoints.

The position also requires adaptability, resilience, and strong time-management skills so you can manage a caseload in a busy environment and bring matters to closure efficiently.

Additional requirements and application details

You must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

Relevant lived experience, volunteer involvement, or other qualifications that strengthen your ability to succeed in the role will also be valued.

To apply, submit a CV and cover letter explaining why you are the right fit. Applications must be completed through the organisation’s online application process. For questions, contact Jackie Johnson at jackie.johnson@mbie.govt.nz and quote reference MBIE/19640. Applications close on 25 June 2026 at 5:00 pm.

About the organisation

MBIE works to build a resilient, high-performing economy that improves the quality of life for New Zealanders. The organisation supports business productivity and international competitiveness, helps create better job opportunities, and contributes to more affordable housing.

Its values are centred on teamwork, courage, future focus, and accountability. MBIE also recognises and honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and is committed to meaningful partnership with iwi, Māori, and other Māori groups to support economic and social development across Aotearoa New Zealand.