Programme Coordinator (Mentoring / Internship / Pathways / Social Media)

About our team / Mō te tīma

Va’a o Tautai – Centre for Pacific Health provides a range of academic programmes and support for Pacific students, leads Pacific health teaching and research, and provides strategic support for Pacific developments and regional engagement across the Division of Health Sciences.

Our work is underpinned by the University of Otago’s Pacific Strategic Framework, which reflects the University’s commitment to meeting the needs of Pacific peoples and supporting improved access, retention and completion in higher education.

The Pacific Islands Research & Student Support Unit (PIRSSU) delivers and oversees evidence-based initiatives that support Pacific students studying within the Division of Health Sciences.

The Role | Te Mahi

We are seeking three dedicated Programme Coordinators to join our team, each responsible for coordinating one of the following programmes:
• Programme Coordinator (Mentoring)
• Programme Coordinator (Internship)
• Programme Coordinator (Pathways / Social Media)

These roles contribute directly to the recruitment, retention and academic success of Pacific students by providing high-quality, coordinated support services within a culturally responsive framework.

You will work closely with students, academic and professional staff, and community stakeholders to deliver programmes that enhance engagement, wellbeing, and achievement.

Your skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

We are looking for energetic and caring individuals who are passionate about working with students and supporting Pacific success in higher education. You will be adaptable, organised, and confident working in a collaborative team environment.

You will also bring a positive attitude and a willingness to be flexible in a dynamic and student-focused setting.

To be successful in this role, you will have:
• A strong commitment to advancing Pacific aspirations and outcomes
• A demonstrated commitment to enhancing Pacific achievement in higher education and supporting Pacific communities
• Excellent relationship-building and public relations skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a diverse range of people
• Sensitivity to and respect for cultural differences, particularly within an educational context
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with students and staff from diverse cultural backgrounds
• Strong administrative capability, including excellent word-processing, spreadsheet, database and time-management skills
• An undergraduate degree
• Flexibility to work outside normal business hours as required

Further details | Pūroko

This is a full time (37.5 hours per week), fixed-term role (until June 2027) based in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.

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

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

The University of Otago is a workplace that values and utilises diverse and inclusive thinking, people and behaviours. This means that the contributions of staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills and perspectives are valued and respected.

For further information, please contact Grettel Williams, POPO Programme Manager, Va’a o Tautai – Centre for Pacific Health via the details below.

Application | Tono

If you are confident in your skillset and share our commitment to advancing Pacific health and education aspirations, we would welcome your application.

To submit your application (CV and cover letter), please click the apply button.

Applications quoting reference number 2600607 close Thursday, 23 April 2026.