Doctoral Examination Coordinator

About the University

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s largest university employer and a leading institution in the country. With more than 6,000 academic and professional staff supporting over 46,000 students, it offers a large, varied, and collaborative workplace across eight faculties and 11 service divisions.

The School of Graduate Studies (SGS) supports doctoral education across the University. In partnership with faculties, academics, and students, SGS oversees the doctoral pathway from enrolment through to examination and graduation, with a focus on delivering a high-quality experience for every candidate.

The opportunity

The University is seeking a well-organised and people-oriented Doctoral Examinations Coordinator to join the School of Graduate Studies. This role is central to one of the most important stages in a doctoral candidate’s academic progress.

You will manage the full administration of doctoral examinations, making sure the process runs efficiently, professionally, and in line with University rules and regulations. The position involves close work with doctoral candidates, supervisors, senior academics, and examiners from overseas, along with providing clear guidance on policies and procedures and balancing several priorities at once.

There is variety in the work each day, from handling examination logistics and supporting oral examinations to maintaining strong working relationships with stakeholders across New Zealand and internationally. If you enjoy organised, service-driven work in a collaborative setting, this role offers a meaningful opportunity.

What you will do

• Coordinate the doctoral examination process from the initial steps through to completion of the degree
• Advise candidates, supervisors, academic leaders, and examiners on examination rules, procedures, and University regulations
• Arrange examination logistics, including oral examinations and liaison with international examiners
• Review examiner nominations and assist with appointing suitable doctoral examiners across the University
• Develop and sustain effective relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders, including senior academics and overseas examiners
• Review examination reports and process examination outcomes in line with University expectations
• Run workshops and contribute to guidance material and knowledge resources relating to doctoral examinations
• Look for ways to improve processes and strengthen the doctoral examination experience

About you

You are someone who enjoys working with people, resolving complex issues, and managing detailed processes accurately. You make decisions with confidence, show initiative, and can adapt quickly when priorities change.

You will bring strong organisation, good judgement, and the ability to juggle competing demands while keeping a close eye on detail. You communicate effectively with a broad range of people and are comfortable building relationships across different backgrounds and cultures.

Above all, you are committed to excellent service and want to contribute to a team that supports academic quality and student achievement.

Skills and experience required

• Experience in a complex administrative or coordination position, preferably in tertiary education
• Strong planning and organisational ability, with experience managing several priorities and deadlines at once
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, along with relationship-building confidence when dealing with senior stakeholders and international contacts
• Strong attention to detail, sound judgement, and the ability to handle confidential information appropriately
• A proactive, service-oriented approach and a willingness to support continuous improvement

Experience that would be an advantage

• Understanding of the doctoral student journey and postgraduate research environment
• Experience using student management systems in a tertiary education setting

What’s on offer

• A supportive, people-focused workplace
• Flexible working arrangements where suitable
• Employer superannuation contribution of up to 6.75%
• Five weeks of annual leave
• Access to professional development opportunities
• Generous parental leave benefits
• Staff discounts, recreation centre access, discounted parking, and wellbeing support
• The chance to work in a collaborative team dedicated to student wellbeing and success

Role details

This is a full-time position of 37.5 hours per week on a fixed-term contract for 12 months. The role is based at the City Campus. After full training, the team works in a hybrid model with the option to work at least one day per week off-site.

The salary range is NZD 63,600 to NZD 79,300 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.

If you are currently enrolled in a doctoral programme, your application cannot be considered because of a conflict of interest.

Application requirements

Applicants should submit an online application by 21/7/26. The application must include a cover letter explaining your interest in the role and how your skills match the requirements, as well as an updated CV. Email applications are not accepted.

For questions, contact Kerry Jones, Doctoral Examinations Team Leader, at [email protected].

Additional information

The University is committed to its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and to achieving equitable outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and fair environment. Support and information are available for Māori, Pacific peoples, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parents, flexible work needs, and other personal circumstances through the University’s equity services.