Student Experience Adviser

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The University of Auckland is hiring a Student Experience Adviser for a five‑month fixed‑term, full‑time role (37.5 hrs/week) to lead the Summer Start Programme from October 2026 in Auckland. You will run a six‑week transition programme, recruit and coach Summer Start Leaders, build strong student relationships, deliver events and wellbeing initiatives, and partner across the University to support enrolment and Semester One readiness. The ideal candidate has customer facing or student support experience, solid event planning and communication skills, leadership ability, and a genuine commitment to equity including Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Māori and Pacific learners. Apply online by 9 August 2026 with a cover letter and CV.

Company Description

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is Aotearoa’s leading university with 9,000 staff supporting more than 50,000 students to achieve their ambitions. As one of New Zealand’s most enduring brands, the University leads the way in teaching excellence and research positively impacting the lives of its people, communities and society at large.

Job Description

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

Student Experience Adviser - Summer Start Programme: 5 Month Fixed-Term opportunity beginning October 2026

Join the Summer Start team and help shape an exceptional transition experience for students beginning their university journey. Summer Start is a six-week programme that supports eligible school-leavers to gain credits, build confidence and connect with university life through a blend of academic, social and wellbeing support. In this rewarding and highly visible role, you'll lead the co-curricular programme, foster a strong student community, and play a key part in helping students thrive from day one.

• Deliver a dynamic programme of events, activities and engagement initiatives that enhance the student experience.
• Recruit, train and support a team of Summer Start Leaders.
• Build strong relationships with students, providing guidance and connecting them with appropriate support services.
• Partner with colleagues across the University to ensure a seamless and supportive student journey.
• Lead student communications, wellbeing initiatives and social media engagement.
• Gather feedback and insights to continuously improve programme delivery and outcomes.
• Support recruitment, application and enrolment activities, helping students transition successfully into Semester One.

For more information, please see Position Description

This is a full-time 5 Month Fixed-Term role (37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday). The salary range is $68,000 - $79,000pa pro rata.

He kōrero mōu | About you

You are a student-focused professional who is passionate about supporting others to succeed. With strong relationship-building skills and a commitment to inclusive practice, you thrive in dynamic environments where no two days are the same. You bring a practical, organised approach to programme delivery and are confident working with a wide range of students, colleagues and community stakeholders.

• Demonstrated experience in a customer-facing, student support, community engagement or similar environment where delivering excellent service is essential.
• Experience planning and coordinating events, activities or initiatives, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality outcomes.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trusted relationships with students, staff and external stakeholders.
• Confidence providing guidance, coordinating others or taking a leadership role within a team, school, community or volunteer setting.
• A genuine commitment to equity, inclusion and student success, including an appreciation of the aspirations and experiences of Māori and Pacific learners.
• Strong organisational skills, sound judgement and the ability to identify issues, respond appropriately and connect people with the right support.
• Digital confidence, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and the ability to communicate effectively across a range of platforms.
• An understanding of, or willingness to learn about, New Zealand’s tertiary education environment, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and culturally responsive ways of working.

Desirable experience includes working in a tertiary education setting, supporting student engagement or wellbeing initiatives, mentoring students, and working effectively within Māori and Pacific cultural contexts.

What we offer | Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou

Guided by our values, we work collaboratively to advance knowledge, foster equity and inclusion, and contribute meaningfully to New Zealand’s social, cultural, and economic well-being.

We cultivate an environment that supports your growth and rewards excellence with a range of staff benefits, including:

• Competitive salary and five weeks of annual leave.
• Leading, and inclusive parental leave provisions.
• Career development opportunities and a range of benefits, including discounted insurance, memberships, and on‑site amenities.

Additional Information

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Please submit your application online by the closing date of Sunday 9th August, 2026. Your application should include:

• A brief Cover Letter explaining why you're interested in this role and how your skills match the requirements.
• Your updated CV.

Please note that we do not accept email applications.

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz