"Senior Specialist, Student Complaints"

Job Description:

• Part-time, permanent role based in Auckland CBD
• Part of a collegial, small team
• Flexible workdays, by agreement

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is bold and unapologetically different, centred on students and grounded in Knowledge that Works driven by talented, progressive people. We are New Zealand’s newest university, ranked 5-stars by QS Universities 2025 and a place of opportunity where more than 26,000 students with talent and potential succeed, supported by a community of more than 4,000 staff based primarily across three Auckland campuses. Built on collaboration, shared purpose and the values of Pono (fact, truth, reality, integrity), Tika (acting accordingly, doing what is needed, ethical expression), and Aroha (empathy, care, compassion). AUT offers an innovative, forward-thinking environment where committed people work together to improve outcomes for students, communities, and the world.

AUT recognises the importance of Te Tiriti, Māori and Pacific knowledge, leadership, and contribution across our university and is committed to creating environments where these communities can thrive. We embrace diversity in all its forms and are proud to welcome people of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious and political beliefs, socio-economic situations and accessibility needs.

The Academic Quality Office is a small, high-performing team within the portfolio of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and lead by the Director of Academic Quality. The Office is responsible for academic quality assurance activities including programme development and approval, academic reviews, academic policy and regulations, and student surveys.

The Opportunity | Te Whiwhinga mahi

We are looking for a Senior Specialist, Student Complaints to provide outstanding support for the management of formal student complaints.

This is a permanent, part-time role (22.5 hours per week), and you will be joining a small, supportive team in the Academic Quality Office on AUT’s City Campus.

The work you will carry out will present challenges and requires discretion, informed judgement, methodical investigation skills, high-level communication and the ability to be adaptable and resilient. Your ability to relate to staff and students from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and world views is crucial to success in the role. Knowledge of tertiary environments and New Zealand legislation will assist you in providing fair outcomes for all stakeholders.

About you | Ko wai koe

You will have:

• A legal or other relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent experience in public law or other related fields and understanding of core investigation principles and standards
• Knowledge of practice and procedure in education or in the broader public sector
• Experience gathering and presenting information, establishing facts and applying critical thinking to complex and varied scenarios
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to maintain objectivity and demonstrate appropriate discretion and confidentiality
• Proven ability to deal with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders Excellent time management, planning and prioritising skills
• Proven experience working under pressure and remaining calm and focused in sometimes difficult circumstances.

What we offer | Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou

At AUT, you’ll be part of a values-led university that supports you to thrive in your role and career. We offer:

• Flexible working and a strong, caring culture that supports belonging.
• Recognition frameworks that reflect your contribution and how you live our values.
• The tools and trust to make a meaningful difference every day.
• Māori and Pacific development programmes that strengthen our shared purpose.
• Cultural capability uplift development programmes for all staff.
• Professional development to keep you moving forward.
• Free gym membership.

How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono

Along with your CV - please ensure to submit a cover letter which a) explains why this particular role (and AUT) is of interest, and b) addresses how you feel you meet some, or all, of the key selection criterialisted above.

Further Information:

• Start Date:The successful candidate would ideally join AUT as early as possible.
• Salary Ranges| Ngā utu: $112,000 – 125,000, commensurate with skills and experience.
• For further information: Please contact Caroline Cranston, Recruitment Consultant - caroline.cranston@aut.ac.nz

Closing date for applications: 13 February 2026 at 5pm

Reference:94421