Principal Adviser Safer Prisons

Mo te tunga | About the role

We're looking for two experienced and strategic thinkers to join us as Principal Advisers Safer Prisons.

These pivotal roles will help shape the future of custodial operations by driving a shift from reactive, incident-based responses to a proactive, prevention-focused approach.

As a Principal Adviser Safer Prisons, you will design and drive a cohesive strategy that integrates dynamic, procedural, and physical security measures to create safer prison environments.

You will work closely with senior leaders, such as the Commissioner Custodial Services, and the Director Office of Commissioner Custodial Services, enabling services across Ara Poutama Aotearoa to ensure alignment and delivery of this vision.

Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and experience

To succeed in this role, you will bring :

• Experience leading complex problem-solving and organisational change, including culture change.
• Strong knowledge of corrections systems, especially violence prevention and de-escalation strategies.
• Ability to identify and manage risks effectively.
• Ability to provide clear, analytical input into policy, service design, and process improvement.
• Collaborative approach with proven stakeholder engagement skills, with excellent communication skills for a range of audiences.
• Confidence using MS Office and tools like MS Project or Visio for process mapping.

Nga painga | The benefits

The midpoint of the salary range is $146,562 per annum and the full range (85%-120%) is $124,578 - $175,875 per annum.

Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role.

Mo matou | About us

Join Ara Poutama Aotearoa - Department of Corrections, where your work will contribute to improving public safety, reducing re-offending, and address the overrepresentation of Maori in correctional facilities.

As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), and whanau (relationships) to guide our work and achieve the goals of our Hokai Rangi strategy.

We value inclusion and diversity in our workforce, and as a Public Service organisation we are committed to building a workforce that reflects the public we serve.

We strive to make our recruitment process fair, and we encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.

Tono inaianei | Apply Now

All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency – applications received via email will not be considered.

When applying, submit a tailored CV and a cover letter describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience and the alignment to our work.

Applications close on : Monday the 1st of December.

If you have any questions or want to learn more about a career with us, contact

• , or visit careers.corrections.govt.nz.