Who we are | Ko wai mātou

The University of Otago is New Zealand’s oldest University with a strong teaching and research tradition and well-established national and international linkages. It is one of the largest employers in the South Island.

The role of universities in society, scale and complexity of sustainability challenges facing us at a local and global level, mean that universities like Otago have an important leadership role to play. We want to show the world the way – enabling substantive change towards a sustainable future and becoming a recognised centre for excellence in sustainability practice and research.

The role | Te mahi

As Engagement Coordinator within the Sustainability Office, you will facilitate, promote, plan and coordinate interventions and activities that support and nurture a culture of sustainability among University of Otago students; supporting an integral theme of Tī Koūka, our Sustainability Strategic Framework.

The role provides a coordination point for student engagement initiatives across the University, will improve the University community’s awareness and knowledge in areas that will promote sustainable practices, help encourage a sense of belonging and support an improvement in the culture of sustainability at Otago.

You will work as part of a small, high-performing team that is proactive in enabling positive, transformational change towards sustainability at Otago. Join our growing team at an exciting time as we build up to the launch of our major staff and student engagement programme – Green Impact.

Your skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

We are looking for exceptional people to guide and develop a sustainability culture among students, focused on providing excellence in relationship building and a commitment to creating impact.

You will have hands on experience: Leading engagement programmes with a demonstrated track record of strong social and environmental outcomes. Building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholder groups. Prioritising and successful delivery of multiple projects.

You will have advanced communication and interpersonal skills, excellent IT and social media literacy and a good eye for design. You will have a demonstrated ability to prioritise and handle multiple concurrent projects and an ability to research and critically analyse relevant information.

Experience working within the tertiary sector and/or being familiar with a university environment is preferred. Awareness of current trends in sustainability communication, engagement and behaviour change programmes will be an asset.

Further details | Pūroko

This is a full time (37.5 hours), fixed term (July 2026 to June 2027) position, based in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.

The appointment range for this role $69,931 to $74,609. Top of range $80,285.

You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.