Customer Service Representative | Kaihāpai Moni Oranga | Christchurch Contact Centre

The Ministry of Social Development

• Multiple full-time, permanent roles available (37.55 hours per week)
• Start date: Monday 02 November

We are a high-energy, whānau-focused, and supportive team. We work together to uplift and provide mana-enhancing support to clients over the phone. Hear from some of our 

What you'll be doing | Ko te mahi

In this role, you will be the first point of contact for clients, providing inbound phone support to people from diverse backgrounds, age groups, and situations. Your responsibilities will include:

• Guiding clients through our services by providing clear and accurate information.
• Offering tools and support to help clients access the services they need.
• Listening with empathy and working to resolve challenges during calls.
• Making decisions using tools and resources to ensure the right support is provided.

Some calls may be difficult, as you’ll be assisting people with essential needs. At times, we may not be able to grant every request. However, we focus on ensuring every client feels respected, listened to, and understood. Where possible, we will work together to find alternative solutions. 

Want to know more? Learn about the role here: Contact Centre Careers with MSD

Position description | He Whakaahuatanga Tūnga

Customer Service Representative | Kaihāpai Moni Oranga - Position Description

What you'll need to succeed | Ko tō āhua

To thrive in this role, you will need to:

• Take inbound phone calls from people in different and sometimes difficult situations, helping them access services.
• Provide clear and accurate information about available support and services.
• Lead conversations with patience and empathy, ensuring callers feel heard and respected.
• Be comfortable using technology, including systems, while talking to clients at the same time.
• Help people navigate complex situations, using available tools and resources to support their needs.

This role requires managing difficult calls with clients who may be in challenging situations. You’ll need to navigate these situations with patience, empathy, and professionalism, providing the support and guidance they need most. While some calls can be difficult, the role is incredibly rewarding, as the work you do makes a difference.

What you need to know

• You will receive a structured training programme to build your MSD product knowledge, skills, and confidence to perform the role independently.
• We provide ongoing support and training to help you succeed.
• Your work will make a real difference in our communities.

What you will get in return | Tāu e whai ai

• Annual pay progression.
• $400 vision care subsidy to help cover the cost of eye tests, glasses, and contact lenses.
• Accident insurance coverage for MSD staff.
• A capability development framework to support your career aspirations with us.
• Staff discounts on Southern Cross Health Insurance.
• Practical wellbeing support, such as the Employee Assistance Programme, as our vision is to have a workplace where everyone has a sense of purpose.

Work hours: What to expect | Ngā Hāora Mahi: Ngā tūmanakohanga

You’ll work 37 hours and 55 minutes each week across five days. Your shifts will be rostered within these times:

• Monday to Friday: 6.55am to 10.00pm
• Saturday: 7.55am to 6.00pm

Our usual operating hours are:

• Monday to Friday: 7.00am to 6.15pm
• Saturday: 7.30am to 1.30pm

We work on a no-surprises basis, so you’ll always know your shifts ahead of time. Because we support communities across Aotearoa, you may also need to be flexible and available to help during emergency events.

Need more information? Get in touch if you’d like to talk about reasonable accommodations that could support you to succeed in this role.

How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono

To apply, click the ‘Apply Now’ button to upload your CV and complete the online application form.

Make sure your CV is up to date so we can understand your skills and experience. Instead of a cover letter, you’ll answer an application question.

Candidates must hold NZ Citizenship or a Permanent Resident visa at the time of application. 

All applications must be made online. If this is not possible, or if you have any queries about the role, training, hours of work, or eligibility, please contact Donna McIntyre on (03) 9614364.

Important recruitment information and dates | Ngā mōhiohio rapu kaimahi hira, me ngā rā hira

Applications close: 11:59pm, Sunday 06 September 2026

Recruitment process overview:

• If you are shortlisted, you will be sent an email invite to complete a video assessment and answer a few more questions about your skills and experience. This will be conducted via a platform called Talegent. You will be given 48 hours’ notice to complete this.
• If you are shortlisted from there, you will be invited to attend an in-person assessment centre planned for the week starting 14 September 2026
• From there, panel interviews will start from the week beginning 21 September 2026
• Preferred candidates will be required to complete two work reference checks from their current and/or previous employers.
• An internal integrity check, including a Ministry of Justice check, is required for preferred candidates prior to offer.

Start date: Monday 02 November 2026

Salary | Utu-ā-tau: $63,004 - $73,903