Specialist Advisor

- Champion youth and community outcomes—lead authentic partnerships with Council.

- Shape strategy—embed and implement community aspirations in local board outcomes.

- Flexible work options, council benefits & option to buy extra leave

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping how Auckland Council shapes and delivers on youth and community outcomes. As a Specialist Advisor, you’ll bring your expertise in youth development, community development, and strategic advice to guide local boards, youth and community organisations. You’ll partner, design and deliver programmes that reflect community & youth aspirations and create real impact for communities and achieve local board outcomes. If you’re passionate about authentic engagement, building enduring relationships, and championing positive change, this role offers the chance to influence outcomes in South Auckland.

This is a permanent, full-time role, based in South Auckland (Franklin, Māngere-Ōtāhuhu, Papakura, Ōtara-Papatoetoe and Manurewa local boards), with requirements to travel.

Te hiranga o tēnei mahi: Why this role matters

This role is central to ensuring Auckland Council delivers meaningful youth and community outcomes. By providing quality advice, youth-led/community-led approaches, and ensuring local voices are considered in decision-making and programme delivery, the Specialist Advisor helps local boards and communities achieve aspirations that are authentic, sustainable, and impactful. The role is also key to creating opportunities for rangatahi and communities to thrive, strengthening relationships with community organisations, and ensuring Māori voices are heard in shaping the future of our city.

Ngā kawenga matua: Key responsibilities

- Provide expert strategic advice to local boards on youth development and community development.

- Build and maintain trusted relationships with rangatahi, and community partners.

- Design, deliver and evaluate community and youth-led programmes that reflect community aspirations and deliver on local board outcomes

- Support authentic community and youth voice in decision-making and champion the integration and collaboration across council activities

- Manage projects, reporting and investment responsibly to ensure transparent and impactful outcomes.

T o view full position description: click here

He kōrero mōu: About you

We’re seeking someone who is confident working in youth and community, with elected members and passionate about creating positive outcomes for South Auckland.

You will bring:

- A deep understanding of te reo Māori, tikanga and mātauranga Māori, and the ability to apply these in community and organisational settings.

- Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage authentically community organisations, youth, and elected members.

- Proven experience in Māori outcomes, youth development, community development, or related fields, supported by exceptional project management and evaluation skills.

- Clear and confident communication, with the ability to provide sound strategic advice and champion change.

- A collaborative approach, thriving in a team environment while also taking ownership of complex programmes of work.

We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every requirement listed. What matters most is your ability to contribute to a collaborative, purpose-driven environment where diverse experiences are valued. We know that transferable skills can come from experience gained from outside of work.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

We offer a welcoming and supportive team and a warm, involved community. Here you’ll have an opportunity to grow your career within the Auckland library team and Auckland Council. You will be supported by a culture that values te reo Māori me ōna tikanga, inclusion and interculturalism.

Additionally, as part of our Auckland Council Group, you will gain access to many benefits and discounts including:

- Option to buy an additional week’s annual leave

- Four weeks annual leave, plus an additional week after five years

- Additional day of leave for community activities

- Discounts on attractions such as the Maritime Museum, Auckland Zoo & Auckland Art Gallery

- Discounted Health & Life Insurance Policies

- Flexible and supportive work environment

- 3.5% KiwiSaver on top of your salary

As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits

Tono Mai: Apply Now!

Application close date: 11th November 2026 at 11.59pm

Salary band H – between $105 - $124k per annum depending on skills & experience

By applying to this position, you are hereby agreeing to the terms as outlined in our Privacy agreement, which has been put together in accordance with the Privacy Act of 2020. Auckland Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). We embrace and value diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, please inquire at the time of application so we may assist you through the process.