Intermediate Solicitor - National Cover

Mō mātou | 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 hapū, iwi and Māori organisations to find appropriate solutions for tamariki in need. Permanent role that can be based in any of our Offices across New Zealand Mō te tūnga | About the role This is a unique opportunity for an experienced Family Court solicitor who enjoys variety, challenge, and making a meaningful impact where it is needed most. As an Intermediate Solicitor, National Support Cover, you will provide flexible legal support to regional legal teams experiencing acute resourcing pressures. Working across different regions and teams, you will step into matters quickly, assist with urgent legal advice, court preparation, litigation, appearances, and support the progression of active files while maintaining strong handover arrangements. You won't hold a permanent caseload. Instead, you'll be deployed to provide short-term support where vacancies, extended leave, unexpected absences, or workload pressures create a need for experienced legal capability. This role offers the opportunity to: A rare opportunity to broaden your Family Court experience through varied, meaningful work across Aotearoa, supporting different regional teams and making an immediate impact where legal expertise is most needed. Appear in the Family Court and alternative dispute forums representing the Chief Executive of Oranga Tamariki. Provide timely, practical, and high-quality legal advice and advocacy. Work alongside legal professionals across the country and build strong networks within government and the wider legal sector. Develop expertise across a broad range of care and protection matters. Support regional teams to continue delivering critical services for tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau. Contribute to a highly professional, collaborative and nationally connected Legal Services team. The role can be based flexibly and includes travel throughout New Zealand as required. Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bring Admission as a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand and hold, or be eligible to hold, a current practising certificate. At least 3 years' post-qualification experience (PQE). Experience providing legal advice and conducting litigation in the Family Court or related jurisdictions. The ability to quickly understand legal issues, assess priorities, and confidently step into active matters. Strong relationship management skills and the ability to rapidly build trust with a wide range of stakeholders. Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. An adaptable and resilient approach, with the ability to work effectively across different teams, locations, and operating environments. Cultural capability, including an understanding of tikanga Māori, te ao Māori and a commitment to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles in your work. A full, clean New Zealand driver's licence and willingness to travel as required. Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you Oranga Tamariki offer a step-based remuneration package that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. 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 an opportunity to broaden your legal experience, work with legal colleagues across Aotearoa, and apply your expertise to improving outcomes for tamariki, rangatahi and whānau. To see all the benefits of working for Oranga Tamariki, please visit the Employee Benefits page. Applications close at midnight on Thursday 3 September. #J-18808-Ljbffr