Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are seeking a dynamic and motivated Sustainability Communications and Engagement Advisor for a 6-month fixed term position. This pivotal role will sit within the University’s Sustainability Hub, while working closely with the Central Communications Team. The position plays a key role in supporting and advancing the University’s sustainability goals across education, research, operations, and partnerships.

Your core responsibilities will include:

• Identify, write, and edit stories about important sustainability initiatives, research, and engagement that showcase sustainability in action and solutions to sustainability problems.
• Collaborate with the Central Communications Team to align messaging and maximise audience reach and impact, particularly with the stories you have written.
• Coordinate with internal teams and academic departments to gather information and translate technical content into engaging narratives for diverse audiences.
• Utilise a mix of communication tools and channels, including digital platforms, social media, internal newsletters, websites, and print materials, to drive awareness and action about sustainability problems and solutions.
• Champion sustainability messages in all communications, ensuring alignment with the University's values and sustainability strategy.

This is a part-time (18.75 hours per week), fixed-term position, expected to run for 6 months. The salary range for this role is $78,000 to $88,000 per annum (pro-rated for part time hours), negotiable depending on skills and experience.

A full description of your duties and the role are provided in the position description linked HERE.

He kōrero mōu | About you

We’re looking for someone who is passionate about sustainability, skilled in communication and familiar with the Sustainable Development Goals. You’ll bring creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to connect with diverse audiences on complex topics in accessible and inspiring ways.

You will be responsible for identifying, crafting, and sharing compelling sustainability content that informs, engages, and inspires our internal and external audiences including staff, students, alumni, and partners.

Through the use of effective communication channels (print, digital, social media, events, and more), you will help bring to life the University’s sustainability achievements, stories, and ongoing initiatives, ensuring they are accessible, relatable, and aligned with our commitment to a fair, ethical and sustainable future.

E rapua ana mātou | We are seeking

• Demonstrated experience in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field—preferably with a focus on sustainability or environmental topics.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills across a variety of formats and platforms.
• Experience creating content for digital channels including websites, newsletters, and social media.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Experience working collaboratively across different teams or departments.
• A commitment to sustainability and an understanding of current issues and discourse in environmental and social responsibility.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university. We employ more than 5400 academic and professional staff to support over 41,000 students making us one of NZ’s largest employers.

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

• Competitive salary and five weeks of annual leave (per annum).
• Superannuation/KiwiSaver matching up to 6.75%.
• Flexible working arrangements, including working from home and adaptive hours. We are also open to full remote working for the right candidate.
• Career development programmes and discounted on-site amenities.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Please submit your application online by the closing date of Friday, 28 November 2025. 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.

For a confidential discussion, you are welcome to contact Maria Armourdian (Sustainability Hub Director) via [email protected]. 

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