Librarian at Ara Poutama Aotearoa (Department of Corrections), Otago (Otakou)

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Librarian – Otago Corrections Facility

“Whaiwhia te kete mātauranga - Fill the basket of knowledge”

• Permanent, Full time Position, 40 hours per week
• Support reading, literacy and educational development 
• Based at Otago Correctional Facility 

Mō te tūnga | About the role

As a Librarian, you will play a vital role in supporting the literacy, learning, and personal development of tāne in our care. Using a strengths-based approach grounded in manaakitanga and whanaungatanga, you will create an inclusive and engaging library service that encourages reading, education, and lifelong learning.

In this role, you will:

• Operate and maintain a professional library service within the correctional facility.
• Deliver services in line with the National Prison Libraries Service Delivery framework.
• Provide accessible library services to all prisoners, including those in remand and special focus units.
• Develop, coordinate, and maintain library collections, periodicals, and learning resources.
• Manage the library budget and resources effectively.
• Provide information, reports, and advice to the Learning and Interventions Delivery Manager.
• Train, support, and monitor prisoner library assistants.
• Maintain a safe and secure library environment.

Mōu | About you

You will be required to work effectively in a custodial environment - leading by example and maintaining professional boundaries.By interacting closely with the tāne in our care along with internal and external stakeholders, you will collaboratively share information and ensure beneficial outcomes are achieved. Key competencies you will demonstrate are: 

• A service focus - a helpful and courteous approach when dealing with others 
• Ability to communicate in a style appropriate to the recipient or audience 
• Experience working with Māori and Pasifika learners 
• A wide knowledge of books including those that may support varying levels of literacy 
• The ability to organise effectively, multi-task and meet deadlines 
• Resilience in managing multiple stakeholders and the ability to adapt well to changing demand 

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

• A high level of proficiency in computer software and database systems including the Microsoft office suite (Excel, Word, Outlook) 
• Applicants must have full work rights with no employment restrictions and a visa that is valid for at least two more years.
• Experience using the AccessIt library management system is desirable but not essential.
• Relevant tertiary qualification / experienced in working within a library setting.

Ngā painga | The benefits

The salary range is $71,161 - $75,411 per annum. Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role. 

We also offer a range of employee benefits such as retail & travel discounts , professional development and much more.

Mō mātou | About us

Join Ara Poutama Aotearoa - Department of Corrections, where your work will contribute to improving public safety, reducing re-offending, and address the overrepresentation of Māori in correctional facilities. As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), and whānau (relationships) to guide our work and achieve the goals of our Hōkai Rangi strategy.

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

Tono ināianei | Apply Now

To submit an application and view the position description, click the apply link. All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency – applications received via email will not be considered.

When applying, submit a tailored CV and a cover letter describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience and the alignment to our work.

Applications close on: Tuesday 18th of August and plan to in person interviews on week of the 25th August 

If you have any questions or want to learn more about a career with us, contact southernrecruitment@corrections.govt.nz , or visit careers.corrections.govt.nz.