Assisstant Clinical Manager Mental Health - Waikeria Prison at Ara Poutama Aotearoa (Department of Corrections), Waikato

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Lead with purpose in a culturally grounded care environment
• Shape mental health services with clinical and people leadership
• Champion Te Tiriti-based practice and cross-cultural collaboration

Ngā kawenga | About the role

We are seeking a motivated leader to support the Clinical Manager of Mental Health in overseeing daily coordination, staff management, and the provision of on-site mental health services. The Assistant Clinical Manager for Mental Health collaborates closely with and reports to the Clinical Manager of Mental Health. This opening is ideal for a clinical expert who is interested in leadership and exhibits a firm dedication to practicing in a culturally sensitive and collaborative manner. Our teams are committed to exemplifying proficient clinical standards while emphasising the human aspect of care and recovery. We hold deep respect for the intrinsic dignity and mana of all individuals under our care, as well as their families.

Download our job description from the job application page to find out more about the role.

He kōrero mōu | About you

As a registered health professional under the HPC or Social Work Act, you will possess a post-graduate qualification in Mental Health. You will have advanced people and clinical leadership experience within a mental health setting, encompassing accountability for service development, priority setting, process management, and decision-making.

Your knowledge will extend to a robust understanding of Te Ao Māori, coupled with demonstrable application of Te Tiriti o Waitangi within a practice environment. Your track record will include a proven ability to develop and maintain effective stakeholder relationships, both internal and external. You will have demonstrated experience working effectively in a cross-cultural context.

Experience, qualifications, and registration in New Zealand are highly desirable. Preference will be given to candidates who have proven experience working within the New Zealand healthcare system, hold relevant New Zealand qualifications, and are currently registered with the appropriate regulatory bodies. This will ensure a smoother integration into our workforce and a deeper understanding of the local context and standards of care.

If you meet these criteria and are eager to contribute to our organisation, we encourage you to submit your application.

Utu ā-tau | Salary

The full salary range is $134,000 - $157,543. Appointment and remuneration will reflect clinical competency, skills, and experience relevant to the role.

Ko wai mātou | About us

Ara Poutama Aotearoa (Department of Corrections) Health Services lead the delivery of patient-focused primary health care services to tangata within corrections facilities across Aotearoa. Hōkai Rangi, our over-arching strategic direction, places the focus on health at the heart of our business. Building our frameworks from a Mātauranga Māori basis is our focus to drive and support equity for Māori, which in turn will contribute to achieving our outcomes of reducing reoffending.

You can find out more about us here.

Tono ināianei | Apply now

Applications Close 11pm Thursday, 6th August 2026.

Please apply and describe your motivation for joining the department, highlighting relevant skills and experience. Please include a tailored CV or Cover Letter if you have one. Alignment to our Kaupapa is critical to our success - we ask that you provide examples that reflect and demonstrate our organisation values. 

Ara Poutama Aotearoa values diversity in our workforce, and as a Public Service organisation we are committed to building a workforce which reflects the public we serve. We strive to make our recruitment process fair and inclusive, and we encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.

If you want to find out more about a career with us visit our careers page or email our team at careers@corrections.govt.nz.