Senior Investigator at Education Review Office, Auckland / Wellington / Christchurch

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō tēnei tūranga | About this role

Are you an experienced investigator who thrives on complex, sensitive and high-impact work? Do you have the judgement, integrity and analytical skills to lead investigations that contribute to safer, higher quality outcomes for children and whānau?

The Education Review Office (ERO) is seeking two Senior Investigators to join our growing Early Childhood Education regulatory function. This is a unique opportunity to play a critical role in New Zealand's education system by leading investigations into complaints, incidents and suspected non-compliance across licensed and certificated early childhood education services. These roles will be fixed term agreements for 12 months.

As a Senior Investigator, you'll lead complex, sensitive and often high-profile investigations. You'll assess risk, gather and analyse evidence, interview stakeholders, prepare investigation reports and provide robust recommendations to support regulatory decision-making. You'll work alongside regulatory, review, legal and operational colleagues, helping ensure fair, consistent and evidence-based outcomes across the sector.

This is a role for someone who enjoys combining strong investigative practice with professional judgement, sound decision-making and a commitment to public service.

Key aspects of the role include:

• Leading complex investigations into complaints, incidents and suspected regulatory non-compliance
• Assessing risk and determining appropriate regulatory responses
• Planning and conducting evidence-based investigations
• Interviewing parties and gathering, testing and analysing information
• Applying relevant legislation, regulations and regulatory frameworks
• Upholding natural justice and procedural fairness throughout investigations
• Preparing clear, well-reasoned reports and recommendations
• Managing evidence, records and case files with integrity and professionalism
• Working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders
• Contributing to continuous improvement of investigative practice, tools and guidance.

Mōhou ake | About you

You will bring:

• Significant experience leading complex investigations in a regulatory, compliance, enforcement, legal, public sector or comparable environment
• Strong analytical thinking and sound judgement
• Experience assessing evidence and making defensible recommendations
• Excellent interviewing, report writing and communication skills
• A strong understanding of procedural fairness and natural justice principles
• The ability to navigate ambiguity, sensitive situations and competing priorities
• High levels of integrity, professionalism and resilienceStrong relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills
• A relevant tertiary qualification and/or equivalent professional experience.

Ko mātou | About Us

At ERO, we're committed to improving outcomes for all learners in Aotearoa New Zealand. Joining our regulatory function means becoming part of an organisation that is building a modern, intelligence-led and evidence-based approach to supporting quality early childhood education services.

At ERO, we are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, health and wellbeing. We welcome people from all backgrounds and encourage everyone to bring their authentic selves to work.

In return, you'll enjoy:

• Meaningful work that directly contributes to children's safety and wellbeing
• Challenging and varied investigations
• Opportunities to influence regulatory practice and continuous improvement
• A supportive, collaborative and values-driven environment
• Flexible working arrangements
• Professional development and career growth opportunities.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

If you're an experienced investigator looking for a role where your work genuinely matters, we'd love to hear from you.

Please click “Apply” to view the full position description and submit your application. We encourage you to bring your whole self to your application.

If you would like further information about the role, reach out to for a chat. For any other questions about the recruitment process, you can contact Virginia.Ng@ero.govt.nz.

We will be reviewing applications as they are received and may progress with suitable applicants prior to the application closing date. Therefore, please apply as soon as possible if you are interested in this position. Please let us know in your application if you require any assistance from us during the process. Applications will close on Sunday 11 October 2026. Check out our careers site to learn more about working at ERO.

Note to Recruitment Agencies: unsolicited CVs will not be accepted, do not contact the Hiring Manager directly, instead reach out to Human.Resources@ero.govt.nz

You must have the right to live and work in Aotearoa New Zealand. Background and various pre-employment checks are part of our recruitment process.