Senior Solicitor

Job DescriptionJob title: Senior SolicitorRole type: Fixed term through to 30 June 2027,Full time preferred (open to part time or reduced hours)Location: Wellington preferredSalary band & range: C $119,376 to $153,670 (midpoint $139,700) or D $100,934 to $129,804 (midpoint $118,005) depending on skills and experienceAbout the Role - Kōrero mō te Tūranga This maternity leave cover role is ideal for a midlevel or senior lawyer (5+ PQE) with experience in public law and, preferably, in climate change–related legislation. Candidates from private practice are welcome, provided they bring demonstrated experience in legislation making processes.You will provide legal advice to Te Uru Rākau – New Zealand Forest Service on operational matters relating to the forestry emissions trading scheme under the Climate Change Response Act. The role also provides wider public law advice supporting MPI's work across the agriculture and forestry sectors.This position sits within the Agriculture, Forestry and Corporate Law team, part of the wider Legal Services Directorate. You'll work on topical issues in the agriculture and climate space, helping support MPI's mahi to better outcomes for Aotearoa. This includes collaboration with external agencies on cross-government work.Key ResponsibilitiesDeliver public law advice on legislation across MPI's agriculture and forestry work, in particular on operational matters relating to the forestry emissions trading scheme under the Climate Change Response Act.Advise on legal powers, obligations, and the risks and benefits of policy and operational options.upport the development of primary and secondary legislation and prepare drafting instructions for the Parliamentary Counsel Office.Work collaboratively with agencies such as EPA and MfE.About You - MōuYou will bring experience advising on regulatory matters and contributing to legislative development, along with strong written and verbal communication skills and a collaborative, proactive approach to mahi. You're someone who builds relationships quickly, enjoys working as part of a team, and is keen to understand MPI's work, our clients, and the wider sector.Experience advising under the Climate Change Response Act is preferred, though experience with other legislation relevant to our work is also valuable. You'll be supported to participate in the Government Legal Network and Te Kura Huna, with dedicated time available, and will have access to learning and development opportunities within both the team and the wider Legal Services Directorate.You will bring:Experience advising on regulatory matters.Experience supporting development of legislation.Strong written and oral communication skills.A team focused attitude and willingness to jump into the work.Ability to build strong relationships with MPI teams and clients (e.g., Te Uru Rākau, Crown Forestry, and primary sector policy teams).A law degree with minimum 5 years PQE and a current NZLS practicing certificate.About the Team - Mō tō mātou RōpūOur team is made up of ten lawyers, most based in Wellington. We connect daily as a team for quick catchups, team meetings, and even the Stuff quiz which helps us maintain a strong sense of connection.We're known for our great team culture; collaborative, supportive, and always willing to help each other out. We work together on interesting and meaningful legal issues that support MPI's mahi, and we're led by a supportive manager who encourages teamwork and professional growth.About MPI - Mō Te Manatū Ahu MatuaThe Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) partners with New Zealand's food and fibre sector to be the world's most trusted provider of high-value food and fibre products.Benefits of working at MPI - Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Ahu Matua Additional MPI leave daysAbility to purchase extra annual leaveReduced premiums for Group Healthcare Schemeshttps://www.mpi.govt.nz/about-mpi/careers/working-mpi/benefits/Are you ready to make a difference? - Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi whaitake? We are committed to being a good partner under Te Tiriti o Waitangi which includes working closely with iwi, hapū, whānau and hāpori.We aspire to reflect the diverse communities we serve, so we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, and identities. As an organisation, we are committed to making Manatū Ahu Matua Ministry for Primary Industries a great place to work for all.In your cover letter we'd like to know about you, your values; your interest and motivations for this role; the abilities, strengths, personal attributes, and diverse perspectives you will bring to the role and this organisation, which may have also been gained outside of the workforce.To view the position description and/or apply online, please click “APPLY FOR THIS JOB” or visit the MPI Careers Site. To apply, you must hold the right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain it – click here to find out more about work visa eligibility and options.Applications close at 11.59pm 19 March 2026 If you have any questions about the role, please email Sophie.Hallett@mpi.govt.nzFollow MPI here - Whāia ngā tūhononga ki MPI i koneiLinks to Facebook, MPI Careers, LinkedIn, X