Employment

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Employment FAQs

How do I apply?

Visit the Current Vacancies web page and apply online for a specific vacancy or become a fan of our Facebook page to keep up to date with what's new.

Current vacancies

Every application must be accompanied by an application form and a curriculum vitae detailing:

Full name.
Residential address.
Contact telephone number.
Full details of all education and academic qualifications and any specialised training.
Immigration status including work permit and passport details and country of origin. (You may be asked to bring copies of your passport to an interview.)
Drivers licence details including what classes. (You may be asked to bring copies of your drivers licence to an interview.)
Details of present and previous employment.
Interests and involvement in activities other than those associated with employment.
The names of, and means of contacting, three referees.
Such other information that might assist in determining the applicant’s suitability.

Any applicant canvassing any elected member of the Council or of any community board shall automatically be disqualified from appointment; provided that this shall not preclude any applicant from nominating any such elected member as a referee.

What is the best way to submit my application?

Our preferred method of receiving an application is online, and all acknowledgements will be in email.

What happens if I don't have a computer?

There is free computer access at Puke Ariki and all community libraries. If you are still unable to send your application electronically we will post you a paper copy.

What happens once I submit an application?

Once the position closes you will receive a letter/email acknowledging that we recieved your application. You can expect this within five working days of the vacancy closing.

How are applications short-listed?

After acknowledgements are sent the applications are forwarded to the manager responsible for the position who will check that your application meets the job criteria – skills, experience qualifications and competencies required to carry out the role. If the application meets the criteria then it will be placed on the shortlist of potential candidates.

What is involved in the interview process?

If you are short-listed for an interview you will be contacted by the our HR Team to arrange the details. This process will include a personality profile questionnaire, ability tests and possibly a practical test related specifically to the position you have applied for. You will also be asked to attend an interview with a panel – usually the manager who the position reports to and two others.

This process can take from a few days to a couple of weeks from the time a shortlist is developed depending on candidate and panel availability.

Where are the interviews held?

Usually at the Civic Centre, Liardet Street, New Plymouth. They are sometimes held at other sites such as Puke Ariki, Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, Pukekura Park Office or the Todd Energy Aquatic Centre.

What happens after interview?

You will be contacted by the HR Team to discuss your personality profile and testing results (if this was not done on the day of the interview). This feedback will be provided along with any test results to the panel who interviewed you to assist them in their decision making. They will also contact your referees for further information about you if you are one of the preferred candidates.

If you are successful, then an offer of employment will be made which is also subject to you undertaking an employment medical assessment before starting with the Council.

If you are unsuccessful in being offered a position, you will be notified by the manager who interviewed you followed by a letter confirming the outcome and returning your CV.

What should I include with/in my application?

Any supporting documentation you think will support your application however, if specific information is required by the Council (e.g. art portfolio) you will be asked to forward that or bring it to an interview if you are short-listed. You may also be asked to bring in your drivers licence or passport.

Can I provide my references after my interview?

Yes – the panel normally asks if they can contact your referees and will ask for the details if they have not already been provided.

What is the IPENZ Professional Development Programme?

IPENZ (Institution of Professional Engineers New Zealand) is the professional body which represents professional engineers from all disciplines in New Zealand. They partner with engineering employers, such as us, to provide support and development for their members.