Advisor Drug Checking - Mental Health and Addiction Regulation

• Regulation of drug checking providers by coordinating and participating in monitoring
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders to support harm reduction activities  
• Full time permanent position based in Wellington, with travel around New Zealand
• Salary of $72,763 – $80,848 based on skills and experience

Ko tōu ake mahi - What you’ll do

This position sits in our Mental Health and Addiction Regulation team. The Drug Checking Licensing Team is a specialist group that oversees the administration of drug checking legislation, within the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975. You will be responsible for:

• Assessing and processing licence applications, amendments, and renewals, providing clear recommendations,
• Supporting regulatory monitoring in coordinating and carrying out on-site audits, and processing statutory approvals,
• Building strong relationships with licensed providers,
• Contributing to policy, programme, and service development with guidance from Senior and Principal Advisors,
• Deliver high‑quality advice, analysis, and administrative support to enable effective programme and team operations,
• This role is based in Wellington but requires travel around New Zealand to audit drug checking services. This can include working late nights, weekends and public holidays.

Data shows around 1-in-5 samples presented to drug checking clinics are not what the person thought they were. New Zealand was the first country to create a legal framework and regulatory system for drug checking. Licensed drug checking services aim to reduce acute drug harm through legal and confidential substance testing to identify what is in them and provide accurate information about drug use.

Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you’ll bring

• A relevant tertiary qualification (e.g. clinical service delivery, biomedical sciences, pharmacology, public health) and/or equivalent experience in harm reduction, drug checking, or auditing of biological/medical services,
• A formal audit qualification (e.g. ISO lead auditor). If you do not have this, we will be able to help get you qualified,
• A strong capability to assess, observe, and document practice in challenging environments,
• Understanding of/experience in health‑based harm reduction approaches with the ability to apply sound judgement and critical thinking,
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to convey complex information clearly and build strong stakeholder relationships.

Ngā hua o tō mātou whare - What we bring

Discover a world of opportunities for personal and professional growth. We're not just a workplace; we're a whanau that values your well-being and the importance of work-life balance. At Manatū Hauora, we value the authentic ‘you’, ensuring that every voice is heard and every perspective matters. Your wellness is our priority, with comprehensive support and resources to keep you thriving. Join us today and be part of a team dedicated to improving healthcare.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment, welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds. We value the unique perspectives and experience each individual brings. Please contact us if you require any support to ensure the recruitment process is accessible.

Me pēhea te tono mai - How to apply 

Applications close on Sunday 8th February. We are reviewing applications as they come in and interviews may take place during the advertising period. Please note if we receive a high number of applications this job may close prior to the closing date.

Please note that you must be based in Wellington and have permanent working rights to be eligible for this position.

We are not receiving recruitment agency submissions at this time.

View the position description here and apply, please follow the online process at our Careers Website. Please ensure you upload a CV and covering letter with all applications. If you have any questions, email the recruitment team at [email protected].