Administrator - Christchurch

The role

In this role, supporting students and staff in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Musculoskeletal Medicine, you are the go‑to person for a wide range of administration tasks—handling correspondence, and managing confidential records with care. You will coordinate student timetables, exams, and results, and work closely with internal and external partners to arrange clinical placements. You are also a supportive presence for students, offering pastoral care when needed. Using University systems, you keep databases up to date, pull useful reports, and undertake a range of transactional finance tasks.

Your skills and experience

We are looking for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys playing a key role in keeping operations running smoothly. You will bring proven experience from a fast‑paced, complex administrative setting, along with top‑tier proficiency in Microsoft Office tools. You are a great listener with a genuine commitment to outstanding customer service, and you are known for being adaptable and flexible when things change. A critical thinker with a passion for continuous improvement, you’re always looking for smarter ways to work and better outcomes for everyone involved. Additional key strengths include :

• An eager learner; able to navigate new systems and process with ease.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with an eye for detail.
• An ongoing commitment to positive outcomes for our students and staff.
• Independence and initiative.
• Work proactively and supportively within a team to create a positive culture.
• Commitment to working in a culturally safe and respectful manner and demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of Te Ao Māori, Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles, and Pasifika values.

About our team

The Divisional Services and Administration Team on the Ōtautahi campus is made up of over 40 highly skilled professionals responsible for delivering outstanding student and staff experiences through high quality, effective operational service delivery and administrative support. We are a strong, supportive whanau mahi (work family) who are proud of the work we do as the largest workforce in the university, spanning every corner of the motu.

Further details

This is a permanent position based in Ōtautahi, Christchurch. The hours of work will initially be 30 hours per week (0.8 FTE), increasing to 37.5 hours per week (1.0 FTE) from 2 April 2026, as it replaces a staff member transitioning into phased retirement. The appointment range for this role is Level 4 $63,508 to $68,185, top of range $73,640. You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this position.

The University of Otago is a workplace that values and utilises diverse and inclusive thinking, people, and behaviours. This means that the contributions of staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills, and perspectives are valued and respected.

We are also seeking candidates for Kaiwhakahaere Tari positions, which support the implementation of our Māori Strategic Framework. If you are interested in these positions, there will be an opportunity to tell us how you could contribute to a culture of whakawhanaukataka in our workplace through the application process.

Application

To submit your application (including CV and cover letter) please click the apply button. Applications quoting reference number will close Sunday, 23 November 2025. Applications will be reviewed as submitted and candidates may be invited to interview immediately. The University reserves the right to close this vacancy at any time.

#J-18808-Ljbffr