People & Capability Advisor

About the Organisation

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is Aotearoa New Zealand’s independent environmental regulator focused on safeguarding the country's environment, economy, and communities. The EPA bases decisions on evidence, mātauranga, and science, encouraging innovative thinking and ambitious goals to impact New Zealand's future positively.

Corporate Services Group

The Corporate Services Group collaborates broadly within the EPA to support its strategic goals and core functions efficiently. It encompasses five main functions: Information Management and Technology, People and Capability, Communications and Customer, Finance and Business Services, and Enterprise Projects.

People and Capability Function

This function leads initiatives, policies, and practices that enhance organisational capability, culture, and capacity. It manages recruitment, development, employee relations, remuneration, performance, and health and safety programs.

Role Overview

Based in Wellington with opportunities for flexible working short of full remote, the People & Capability Advisor offers hands-on HR guidance and operational support to leaders and employees across EPA. Collaborating closely with senior colleagues, you will contribute to the delivery of HR solutions and participate in strategic and operational projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive HR advice and support covering recruitment, remuneration, performance management, workforce management, and employee relations.
• Collaborate with managers to manage the entire recruitment lifecycle from job postings to hiring decisions.
• Support organisational change efforts with a focus on people-centric approaches.
• Assist in handling employment relations cases, investigations, policy interpretation, and performance management processes.
• Contribute to programmes including employee engagement, remuneration reviews, performance evaluations, diversity, inclusion and workforce projects.
• Organise learning and development activities to enhance capabilities across EPA.
• Maintain and enhance HR policies, systems, and procedures.
• Generate HR reports and insights to aid informed people decisions.
• Establish trusted partnerships with leaders and employees, ensuring excellent HR service delivery.

Qualifications and Experience

• Experience in HR advisory or generalist roles dealing with a variety of people management practices.
• Strong understanding of New Zealand employment laws and HR best practices.
• Demonstrated experience managing recruitment and selection procedures.
• Practical knowledge in employee relations, HR policy interpretation, payroll issues, and procedural guidance.
• Well-developed organisational skills with attention to detail and ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building capabilities with a customer-oriented mindset.
• Proficient in HR information systems and Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.

Benefits

• Flexible workplace culture supporting balanced work arrangements.
• Additional three paid leave days between Christmas and New Year on top of four weeks annual leave.
• One-off $400 non-taxable payment to assist with home working setup.
• Annual EPA Environment Day dedicated to community environmental projects.
• Access to in-house Māori cultural capability development programmes.
• Learning opportunities such as the annual EPA Symposium and ongoing development.
• Active social groups and diverse support networks fostering community and engagement.
• Recognition awards celebrating both individual and team achievements.
• Relocation assistance available for candidates moving to New Zealand from overseas.

Salary and Conditions

The salary range for this position is NZD 77,045 to 115,567 annually with the midpoint at 96,306. Appointments are generally made at or below midpoint depending on skills and experience. The role is full-time based primarily from the Wellington office and is not intended for permanent full remote work.

Application Process

Applicants are required to submit an online application including a CV and cover letter outlining relevant experience and motivation for the role. Applications close at 5pm on Tuesday, 18 August 2026. Early application is encouraged as selection may begin prior to the deadline.