Certification Investigator

Full job description
Investigate non-compliance within the certification industry
Contribute to road safety through regulatory activities
Can be based in Wellington or Christchurch, flexible working
Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We have an opportunity for an Investigator to join our busy specialist team, where you will play a key role in ensuring compliance within the vehicle certification sector.

In this role, you will conduct investigations into non-compliance within the vehicle inspection and certification sector. Working alongside technical experts you will coordinate and lead moderate to complex investigations in the South and Lower North islands, where safety and regulatory standards may be at risk.

Your work will directly contribute to safer roads and a more accountable certification industry. You'll produce high-quality reports, recommend and implement regulatory interventions (including prosecutions where necessary), and maintain accurate records to support compliance outcomes.

Travel across the regions will be required at times.

You can view the position description here.

We are seeking to appoint at a salary between $+0,422 to $120,564 commensurate to skills and experience.

Ko koe tenei | About you

This is an excellent opportunity for you to apply your investigative expertise in a meaningful way. We're looking for someone who brings:

Proven experience in investigative procedures, ideally in a regulatory or compliance setting
The ability to address specific issues and find resolutions within regulatory guidelines
Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Excellent communication skills
Experience preparing reports and managing case files, including prosecution documentation
Strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise competing demands
You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Maori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Maori. You will also have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) as it applies in the public sector.

Ko wai matou | About us

As the lead regulator for land transport our purpose is to ensure that the system is safe, efficient, effective and operates in the public interest. Safety is a top priority for Waka Kotahi and we, as Te Ropu Waeture (the Regulatory Services group), aim to improve safety and reduce the risk of harm by being a firm and fair real-world regulator applying principles of good practice grounded in Te Ao Maori -Whakapono (Integrity), Manaakitanga (Caring for people),Whanaungatanga (Relationships) and Kotahitanga (Unity). Being a real-world regulator means we take a systems view that is focused on improving safety outcomes and reducing harm, we work to understand why people behave the way they do and are pragmatic in how we respond, we encourage and educate to support people to comply and enforce compliance when necessary.

The Safer Vehicles team review, assess and investigate vehicle certifiers to check they can make correct decisions regarding vehicle certification. Specifically, that vehicles meet the required safety standards and certifiers meet their appointment conditions.

Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return

We care about our people and invest in supporting our staff at NZTA. If you join us, you can expect:

A supportive working environment
Flexible working options
A competitive salary package, aligned with your skills and experience
5 weeks annual leave and other great benefits.
Ready to take the next step in your career? We'd love to hear from you.

Me pehea te tuku tono | How to apply

Apply today by including a cover letter detailing why you are the ideal candidate for this role and attach along with your CV.

Ra Katinga | Applications close: 5 June 2025



For further information, email: careers@nzta.govt.nz

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

NZTA| Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.