Location: Ōtepoti

Employment and hours: Full-Time Permanent

Remuneration: Early - Mid Scale D on OUSA Staff Salary Scales

 

Our Advocates support students through a wide range of situations. Anything from accommodation and tenancy issues to financial assistance, university processes and procedures, health and wellbeing concerns, and crisis management. Whether it's helping students navigate complex systems or providing guidance during challenging times, our Advocates are there to ensure every student feels supported, informed, and empowered.

 

As Student Advocates, we play a key role in bringing together the right people and services to ensure the best outcomes for students. No two days are ever the same. For example, in the morning, you might be helping a student organise paperwork for next year’s flat, and by the afternoon, you could be supporting someone through a period of serious distress. This is a role for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, can think on their feet, and remains composed under pressure. You’ll need to see the big picture, make meaningful connections across departments and agencies, and be ready to roll up your sleeves and handle the finer details that make a real difference in a student’s life.

 

You will be joining a dedicated team of people who genuinely care and are here to work collaboratively to make a difference in all students' lives.

 

To be successful in this role, you will need a strong background in advocacy and/or social services.

Furthermore, the ideal candidate will have:

• Relevant tertiary qualification such as psychology, counselling, social work, community development/support or equivalent

• 1-2 years’ experience in a support or advocacy position

• Knowledge of the tertiary education sector, community services, and the student demographic

• Written and oral communication skills, active listening/counselling skills, pastoral care skills, problem-solving skills, flexible and adaptable

 

Applications close November 3rd and must be emailed to our HR Advisor, Lauren Scrimgeour (jobs@ousa.org.nz). Please include your personalised Cover Letter, CV and the OUSA application form.