Refugee and Protection Officer – Fixed Term (Auckland)

About the role

The Refugee and Protection Officer (RPO) position is a fixed‑term role within the Refugee Status Unit of Immigration New Zealand, based in central Auckland. You will join a high‑performing team dedicated to upholding New Zealand’s international human‑rights obligations by assessing refugee and protected‑person claims.

Key responsibilities

• Interview claimants and gather relevant evidence for refugee or protection status determinations.
• Conduct investigations, analyse legal and factual information, and apply the Refugee Convention, Convention Against Torture, and related instruments.
• Write clear, well‑reasoned decisions in line with New Zealand law and international standards.
• Maintain accurate case records and meet statutory deadlines.
• Collaborate with senior staff and external partners while demonstrating cultural competence.

Required profile

• Previous experience as a Refugee and Protection Officer or in a comparable decision‑making role.
• Strong knowledge of the Refugee Convention, Convention Against Torture, International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Immigration Act 2009.
• Familiarity with New Zealand refugee case law, especially Immigration and Protection Tribunal decisions.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Tertiary qualification in a relevant field or equivalent experience.
• Eligibility for New Zealand citizenship or Permanent Resident status and ability to obtain a national security clearance.

Required skills

What we offer

• Fixed‑term contract until November 2026 with a pro‑rated salary of $77,359 per year.
• Opportunity to work on high‑impact cases that shape New Zealand’s asylum policy.
• Supportive, collaborative team environment in the heart of Auckland’s CBD.
• Professional development and exposure to international human‑rights law.