"Operations Administrator"

Job Description:

• Are you interested in making a busy research environment run well?
• Do you enjoy variety and can confidently manage competing priorities?
• Have you got excellent communication skills and a welcoming, professional manner?

Kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role

Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington is currently recruiting an Operations Administrator to join Te Kāuru - Ferrier Research Institute in a permanent, part‑time role (18.75 hours per week/0.5 FTE).

The primary purpose of the Operations Administrator role is to provide high‑quality administrative, operational, and financial support for our Gracefield site. This includes being the first point of contact for staff, students, contractors, and visitors; coordinating building and facilities requests; supporting purchasing and financial processes; assisting with onboarding and staff records; and helping ensure smooth day‑to‑day operations across the Institute.

You will work closely with the Institute Manager, Senior Administrators, research teams, and central University services to ensure that our people have what they need to work safely, efficiently, and effectively. This role plays an important part in maintaining a welcoming environment, well‑managed resources, and seamless operational support for our busy research community.

Ō pūmanawa – About you

You will be a motivated, organised, and people‑focused individual who enjoys variety and takes pride in running a smooth, well‑functioning workplace. You’ll be confident managing competing priorities, have great attention to detail, and bring a warm, customer‑focused approach to all interactions.

Key requirements:

• Previous administration experience in a busy work environment.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Basic financial administration skills (e.g., purchasing, invoicing, reconciliations).
• Proven experience maintaining accurate records and following established processes.
• Excellent communication skills and a welcoming, professional manner.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products.
• Full NZ driver’s licence.

Desirable:

• Experience in a research, scientific, or academic environment.
• Knowledge of University systems and processes.

Role Description: Click here to see further information, including salary details.

If this link is not available, click ‘apply’ to view this on the University careers page.

Close date for vacancy: 08 February 2026.

Contact details for vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role, please get in touch with Anette Klaassen (anette.klaassen@vuw.ac.nz).

How to apply: Please ensure you are applying for this role directly on our careers page and not via email. Candidates must submit supporting documents along with their résumé, such as a cover letter.

We can only consider applicants who are citizens or residents of New Zealand or Australia or who hold a current valid work visa. We will review applications as they are received and may schedule