Court Security Manager

Role overview

The Ministry of Justice is looking for a Court Security Manager to lead a security team of up to 12 officers across Invercargill and Queenstown. Based at Invercargill District Court, this permanent full-time role focuses on creating a secure environment so people can access justice safely. The position offers variety, regular contact with a wide range of people, and daily coordination with internal teams and external partners.

What the job involves

• Lead, coach, and support team members so they can reach their full potential.
• Oversee day-to-day operations in a demanding and complex security setting.
• Assess operational risks and respond with sound, timely decisions.
• Build positive working relationships with people from different backgrounds and stakeholder groups.
• Work alongside agencies such as NZ Police, the Department of Corrections, and Te Oranga Tamariki.
• Help ensure court activities run safely and professionally.
• Where recruited from outside the organisation, attend a three-week residential training programme in Wellington within three months of starting.

Skills and experience

• Proven leadership ability.
• A strong service-focused mindset.
• Confidence in calming tense or confrontational situations.
• Physical capability to perform full-contact officer safety techniques.
• Comfort using technology in day-to-day work.
• A full, clean New Zealand driver licence.

Work pattern and conditions

This role is based on a 40-hour work week, with paid overtime available when extra cover is needed. Saturday work may also be required, with shifts of at least four hours.

About the organisation

Te Tāhū o te Ture, the Ministry of Justice, works to strengthen public trust in Aotearoa New Zealand’s justice system. The organisation promotes an inclusive, respectful workplace where diversity is welcomed and people are supported to be healthy, safe, and authentic at work.

Location and travel

Your main base will be Invercargill District Court. When operational requirements call for it, you may also be deployed to other local courts, including Westport, Nelson, or Blenheim. Any travel costs are covered by the Ministry.

Benefits

• 4.4 weeks of annual leave.
• Access to an online professional development portal.
• Membership in a range of inclusive and proactive networks.
• Safety and security training and qualification opportunities.
• Leadership development options and courses.
• Opportunity to build and manage a diverse team.
• Work in a challenging and varied environment.

Salary

The expected salary range for this position is between NZD 74,634 and NZD 95,591, depending on skills and experience.

Application details

Applications close on 21 June 2026. Candidates may be interviewed before the closing date as applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Applicants are asked to submit a CV and cover letter with their application. For enquiries, contact recruitment@justice.govt.nz.