Pacific Student and Community Support

DIVISION OF SCIENCES | TE ROHE A AHIKĀROA

• Excellent opportunity to play an integral role in supporting Pacific student success in the Division of Sciences.
• Strengthen and celebrate the knowledge, skills, and capabilities of Pacific students at the University of Otago.

The role | Te mahi

The University of Otago is confident in its place within the Pacific, and being of the Pacific, and leading the Pacific in teaching, research, community engagements and acting sustainably to secure its future in the Pacific as the premier University of the region. Our Pacific students are increasingly discerning, passionate, and active global citizens who demand inclusivity, quality teaching and outstanding support services.

We currently have a Pacific Student and Community Support role to provide high quality academic support to students within the Division of Sciences.

The focus of this support role is to increase the achievement, retention, and pathway goals of Pacific students. Our approach to student academic support encompasses a holistic approach, also considering pastoral and cultural supports.

In this role you will work to facilitate community engagement, promoting the benefits of a qualification in the science fields. Creating strong relationships between the University and potential students, their families, and respective schools.

The aim is to support the development of aspiring Pacific researchers, scientists and academics, integrating Pacific values and knowledge in both teaching and research.

Your skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

We are looking for a positive, friendly, approachable person who can relate and build relationships with tertiary students, high school students, staff, and the Pacific community. The successful candidate will be capable of leading projects as part of a team and promoting the Pacific space within the university, nationally and regionally.

Successful candidates will have:
• Previous experience working with the Pacific communities.
• Fluency in at least one Pacific language.
• A tertiary qualification and demonstrate an understanding of the tertiary sector.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, including report writing skills.
• Experience with the facilitation of culturally appropriate academic workshops for students, staff and the community.
• A good working knowledge of communicating via social media platforms.
• Competency with MS office products, especially Excel for report generation and analysis.

About our team | Mō te tīma

The Division of Sciences - Pacific support network team work closely with university academic and professional staff to cater for the needs of our current and prospective Pacific students.

We are committed to improving, student success, teaching, research, and relationships with the wider Pacific community.

We aim to enable the goals, strategies, and activities outlined in the University of Otago Pacific Strategic Framework.

Further details | Pūroko

This is a permanent, full-time position (37.5 hours per week) position, located in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.

The appointment range for this role is $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 position.

Candidates who successfully make the final stages of the recruitment process will be required to undergo a safety check. For further information on the safety check process please click here.

For further information on the role, please contact Dr Vanisha Mishra-Vakaoti, via the contact details below.

Application | Tono

To submit your application (including CV and cover letter) please click the apply button. Applications quoting reference number 2600671 will close on Tuesday, 12 May 2026.

Applications may be considered as they are received. The University reserves the right to close this vacancy at any time.

Additional Information

Contact: Dr Vanisha Mishra-Vakaoti

Position details: Job Description

Further Information: Department Website

Location: About Dunedin

Posted: 29/04/2026