How to Apply

We welcome applications from talented people who are committed to making a positive and lasting difference in the lives of New Zealanders. 

Our application process varies depending on the role you are applying for so it is important to check the advertisement for instructions on how to apply.  It is essential that you complete all aspects of the application process to be considered for a position.

We may not accept incomplete or late applications.  

Any information you provide as part of the recruitment process will be stored in our recruitment database system against your individual user profile.  This information is only used for the purposes of the recruitment process.  The information stored may include using your application notes for the purpose of an individual’s right of review of appointment (as outlines in the State Services Act).  

Internal Candidates: If you are currently working for MSD or Oranga Tamariki please register online through the MyHR dashboard to ensure you’re correctly identified as an internal applicant. This will also give you access to roles marked for “internal applicants only”.

Recruitment Support

If you aren’t able to apply online, or if you require any additional information regarding the application process, please contact the person whose name is on the advertisement for assistance or guidance.    

For other questions about our recruitment process, please contact the Recruitment team at jobs@msd.govt.nz.  

What should I submit with my Application? 

We want to understand why you’re interested in the role, and our organisation.  Keep in mind the skills and abilities we reference in the advertisement and position description when you write your application.

  • A cover letter gives you the opportunity to tell us about your interest in the role and highlight your key achievements to date, relevant to the role. 
  • A curriculum vitae (CV) is essential, so take the time to write a customised CV that outlines your skills, experience and career history relevant to the position you are applying for.

Background & Safety Checking

Background & safety checking is a very important part of our recruitment and selection process as many of our people work directly or indirectly with some of New Zealand's most vulnerable children and adults, and/or routinely have access to systems and information that are confidential or enable us to manage resources on behalf of the Crown.   Unsurprisingly this means we need to verify the honesty, integrity and trustworthiness of our people.  

Background Checks

If you are a preferred candidate we will conduct background checks which can include any or all of the following:

  • Criminal records checks with the Police and/or Ministry of Justice
  • Identity confirmation
  • Bankruptcy check via NZ Insolvency and Trustee Service and Veda Trace
  • Internal systems and benefits check (MSD or Oranga Tamariki, as appropriate)
  • Confirmation of your academic record / qualification
  • Reference checking

Safety Checking

We demonstrate an exemplary culture in relation to child safety.  Safety checking of our employees and contractors ensures we’ve met our commitments under the Government’s Children’s Action Plan and Vulnerable Children’s Act to keep our vulnerable children safe.  

Safety Checking is additional checking beyond the background checking process outlined above.  Safety checking is made up of the following steps:

  • Identity confirmation
  • Third party checking
  • Police vetting
  • Other required information, for example, CV and interview
  • Risk assessment and evaluation of all information obtained to ascertain whether you pose or could pose a risk to children

If you have certain serious convictions you won’t be able to work in a role directly with or with authority over children.  Click here for a list of convictions.