Community Engagement Advisor - Gisborne

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi \| about the role

The core purpose of this role is to activate civic participation across Gisborne and surrounding areas. You will be required to build and support relationships that enable and empower groups of diverse communities to understand, engage and participate in the democratic system like our general elections coming up this year. This role is a remote, work from home opportunity with co-location to an Electoral Commission’s Head Quarters during the General Elections period.

This is a fixed term role from August to November 2026 with a salary of $88,880 - $98,750 depending on experience of the candidate.

Ko tāu e whakarato ai \| Key responsibilities

• Develop and foster relationships through internal and external engagement
• With support, effectively and efficiently respond to public and media enquiries while maintaining political neutrality
• Support the delivery of electoral events
• Engage with local community champions
• Practice a continuous improvement approach
• Contribute to the effectiveness and achievement of team and SEP goals

This role will be key in maintaining and developing community partnerships with communities and organisations.

Mōhou ake \| About you

To be successful you will have:

• Experience in developing and delivering community engagement initiatives across communities and regions
• Ability to build knowledge of community and required networks
• Experience in the delivery of operational policies and procedures based on legislation
• Ability to work effectively and independently under pressure to meet deadlines
• Ability to report on activities and results in a timely manner
• Professional and results-oriented approach with good business and customer focus
• Strong connections within specific communities

Mo Te Kaitiaki Take Kōwhiri \| About the Electoral Commission

The Electoral Commission wants every New Zealander to trust, value and take part in parliamentary elections. Here’s your chance to contribute to New Zealand’s democracy as part of a small team of electoral experts who design, build and implement processes and systems for Parliamentary elections and referenda. It’s an exciting and varied role within a team which is committed, supportive and hands-on.

Mā te tūhono mai ki Te Kaitiaki Take Kōwhiri ka aha? \| Why join the Electoral Commission?

The Commission is building an inclusive strength focussed culture where diversity is encouraged and valued and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, orientations and identities. We want to provide a flexible working environment where everyone feels valued and supported. We are happy to discuss what works for you. You will join a team who are here for the right reasons, and we are passionate about what we do.

Tono ināianei \| Apply Now

Applications close Sunday 21 June 2026 at 11pm.

To apply, please submit a tailored CV and cover letter outlining your reasons for joining the Commission, highlighting your relevant skills and experience.

If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.

For more information regarding this role, please email [email protected]

You must be legally allowed to work in New Zealand.

Job Details

Reference # 11043

Location(s) Gisborne

Job opportunities Roles at the Electoral Commission, Voting Place, Working during the 2026 General Election, Electorate Headquarters, Community engagement, Processing centre

Work type(s) Fixed term

Application closes on: 21 Jun 2026 23:00