Senior Investigator

• A key role in the Child Protection Investigation Unit
• Fulltime Wellington based
• Fixed term or secondment to December 2026

The mission of the CPIU is to enhance Oranga Tamarikis ability to improve and ensure the safety of children

Mo m tou | About us

Oranga Tamariki-Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of what we do. In our work, we aim to demonstrate these values:

• We put Tamariki first
• We believe Aroha is vital
• We respect the Mana of people
• We are Tika and Pono
• We value Whakapapa
• We recognise that Oranga is a journey

We are committed to ensuring that New Zealand is the best place in the world to be a child. We are also committed to ensuring Oranga Tamariki partners with hapu, iwi and M ori organisations to find appropriate solutions for tamariki in need.

Mo te tunga | About the role

In this role you will be part of a small elite independent team reporting to the Chief Executive. The purpose of the unit is to undertake independent investigations, reviews and specific projects centred on serious concerns which pose a risk to children with the aim of improving Oranga Tamarikis practices and response. This involves investigations into specific matters or wider systemic practices and policies. It is expected that the work will be wide ranging and include incidents where death or serious harm to children has occurred.

You will be responsible for all aspects of assigned investigations including the development of investigation plans, identification of relevant issues, analysis of evidence, conduct of interviews and managing the sensitive relationships with tamariki, rangatahi, next of kin, whanau, third party providers and Oranga Tamariki staff (including those under investigation).

You will complete the analysis including consideration of applicable laws, Oranga Tamariki policy, practice and procedure, and draft advice to support the Units findings. An investigator must apply sound judgement and objective analysis to complex, real-world situations. This will often be in difficult circumstances and may involve close public and media scrutiny. Their work is at the core of how the unit delivers on its aim to provide independent, impartial, and proportionate assessments of serious concerns.

This role will likely be required to work flexible hours depending on the nature and type of work underway and travel may also be required.

Ng pumanawatanga ou | What you will bring

You will likely have a background in investigations or complex reviews and knowledge of law enforcement operations with strong interpersonal and relationship skills and the highest standards of integrity. Some other key desirables for the role include:

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple relationships in sensitive situations with professionalism, empathy, and integrity.
• Social work experience or experience of child protection law and practice.
• Demonstrated high level expertise and extensive experience at a senior level in investigations, with expertise in conducting child protection investigations.
• Understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural practices in particular the circumstances of M ori children and their communities; knowledge of tikanga M ori and understanding of Pacific peoples culture and their circumstances.

Nou te rourou | Whats in it for you

Oranga Tamariki offer a step-based remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. Annual remuneration for this position starts between $174,846 and $193,569 dependant on experience. We offer a vibrant and supportive team, flexible work options and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We offer significant training and professional development so that you can thrive and grow. We welcome diversity and are committed to working in an inclusive and respectful way. This is your opportunity to apply your skills and experience to the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi and be part of a new dynamic independent unit within Oranga Tamariki.

To see all the benefits of working for Oranga Tamariki, please visit https://mahi.orangatamariki.govt.nz/working-with-us/employee-benefits/

Me pehea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Apply online with your CV and Covering Letter. If you are an Oranga Tamariki employee already, please ensure you apply with a log in using your Oranga Tamariki email address.

If you have any questions about role, please contact Info_recruit@ot.govt.nz

Hurry as applications for this role close at midnight on Thursday 17th April 2025

If you are interested in any of our vacancies, please ensure that you make yourself familiar with our code of conduct as it sets out our expectations for our kaimahi and requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol.