Youth Advocate

Join our team and be at the forefront of driving change, building connections, and creating a more inclusive democracy for all.

Mo tenei turanga mahi | about the role

You will play a vital role in connecting with and motivating young people in your community to participate in the electoral process. Working closely with our Community Engagement Team, you will provide valuable advice on reaching and engaging rangatahi/youth, building relationships, and organising youth-focused activities and events.

The salary for this 30 hour a week, fixed term role is pro-rata to $61,550 - $68,390 depending on the skills and experience of the candidate.

Mohou ake | About you

You are a passionate and dedicated Youth Advocate who will actively engage with the community, provide guidance to youth, organise events, and foster positive relationships to promote participation in the 2026 General Election (GE26) while upholding cultural competency and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders.

We are seeking candidates who

• Have strong links within your community and access to community networks.
• Can build and maintain effective internal and external working relationships.
• Effectively and confidently communicate with a range of individuals as well as large groups, through conversation, presentations, activities, and other interactive means.
• Are comfortable working independently, and able to change direction depending on organisation demands.

Key Responsibilities

• Raise awareness of GE26 amongst youth through sharing key messages directly with your community as well as through community influencers and champions, networks and via other key community stakeholders.
• Keep a concise and accurate record of those contacts established within communities.
• Prepare timely and high-quality written reports, with the intent to share with those within the Commission, integral information which will guide the Commission's decision making.
• Provide advice on how to best reach and engage rangatahi/youth to support the delivery of both local and national community engagement plans.
• Travel locally and regionally to undertake engagement with the public, and working partnerships, and to fulfil public speaking engagements. (Travel outside the region may also be required and could include overnight stays.)
• Organise community activities and events to engage with rangatahi/youth and encourage participation in GE26.
• Enrol eligible electors who are not on the roll and assist electors who are enrolled to keep their information up to date.

About the Electoral Commission | Te Kaitiaki Take Kowhiri

The Electoral Commission wants every New Zealander to trust, value and take part in parliamentary elections.

Here is your chance to contribute to New Zealand's democracy as part of a small team of electoral experts who design, build, and implement processes and systems for Parliamentary elections and referenda. It is an exciting and varied role within a team which is committed, supportive and hands-on.

Why join the Electoral Commission?

The Commission is building an inclusive strength focussed culture where diversity is encouraged and valued, and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, orientations, and identities. We want to provide a flexible working environment where everyone feels valued and supported. We are happy to discuss what works for you. You will join a team who are here for the right reasons, and we are passionate about what we do.

Tono in ianei | Apply Now

To apply, please submit a tailored CV and cover letter outlining your reasons for joining the Commission, highlighting relevant skills and experience.

If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.

Applications close at 11pm, Sunday 21 June 2026 however we will be reviewing applications as they come in and setting up interviews quickly so apply early.

You must be legally allowed to work in New Zealand.