Emerging Professionals Programme – Human Resources Graduate Role

About the role

The Emerging Professionals Programme offers a two‑year, permanent graduate position in Human Resources with NZTA | Waka Kotahi. Based in Wellington, you will rotate across multiple teams in the People and Safety Group, gaining hands‑on experience in people operations, health and safety, wellbeing, organisational capability and culture.

Key responsibilities

• Complete at least three structured work rotations across different HR functions.
• Support people, leaders and teams to deliver safe, inclusive and high‑performing services.
• Apply data‑driven insights to improve HR processes and outcomes.
• Contribute to wellbeing initiatives and organisational capability projects.
• Build professional networks within NZTA and external stakeholders.

Required profile

• Working towards or holding a bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Human Resources.
• Graduated within the past two years, with the highest qualification completed by February 2027.
• Minimum B‑grade average in the degree.
• Interest in data analytics and artificial intelligence.
• Willingness to develop an understanding of te Tiriti o Waitangi and its relevance to the public sector.

Required skills

• Data analytics
• Artificial intelligence (AI)

What we offer

• A permanent role with a starting salary of $69,606 per year.
• A structured 2‑year development journey with at least three rotations.
• Embedded placement within NZTA teams while belonging to the Emerging Professionals Programme.
• Strong support network, mentorship and professional development opportunities.
• Comprehensive wellbeing package, including five weeks of annual leave and additional benefits.