Occupational Therapist

Role overview

The Ministry of Education New Zealand is looking for two permanent full-time Occupational Therapists to join its Learning Support team in the Auckland area, with work based across Albany, North Shore and Henderson in Waitākere. This position is part of the wider effort to build an education system that delivers fair and high-quality outcomes for every learner.

What you will do

• Work alongside children and young people with higher support needs through observation and assessment.
• Strengthen the capability of the adults around the learner, including parents, teachers and whānau, so they can provide better support.
• Recommend and help put in place changes to the learning environment, along with suitable aids, equipment and technology.
• Support inclusive practice across schools and other learning environments.
• Collaborate effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

Salary and employment details

This is a permanent job. The salary band is NZD 69,966 to 118,450 per year, plus KiwiSaver. Pay for the appointed candidate will depend on the skills and experience they bring to the role.

About the team

Te Tāhuhu o te Mātauranga supports the education sector nationally, regionally and locally, and in some cases works directly with ākonga and whānau. Learning Support specialists partner with families, caregivers, schools, early childhood educators, and other agencies in English and Māori medium settings to improve learning outcomes and social inclusion for children and young people with additional needs.

Team members value the chance to make a real difference in the lives of learners and their whānau, the backing of a large professional community, and regular collaboration with specialists from other disciplines.

What you need

• A Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy, or an accepted equivalent recognised by the New Zealand Occupational Therapy Board.
• Current registration with the Occupational Therapy Board and a valid practising certificate.
• Strong understanding of occupational therapy theory and practice, with the ability to apply specialist knowledge in inclusive educational settings.
• Paediatric experience is preferred.
• Ability to share expertise in ways that build confidence and capability in learners and those supporting them.
• Experience coordinating services in a multi-agency, trans-disciplinary environment.
• Excellent communication and people skills, with the ability to work well with children, young people, families and teachers across varied settings.
• Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and tangata whenuatanga, and the ability to apply these principles in practice.
• Willingness to uphold Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

Application information

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume through the application process. The cover letter should include personal motivation, values, strengths, transferable skills, and any other information the applicant wants to share. The closing date for applications is midnight on Sunday, 26 July 2026. Applicants needing support or adjustments during recruitment can request assistance. For further information, contact Recruitment.TamakiHT@education.govt.nz.