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Our recruitment process (option 2)
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The process for applying for a role at the Otago Regional Council is straight forward and thorough.
Applying
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload your cover letter and CV.
- You’ll receive an email confirmation once your application is submitted.
Shortlisting and interviews
- You’ll be notified by phone, text, or email if shortlisted.
- Interviews may include:
- Initial phone interview
- Video interview
- Formal panel interview (confirmation sent by email)
- If unsuccessful, we’ll advise you by email.
The interview process
- Interviews are conducted by a panel of around three people.
- Allow about one hour.
- We use the STAR technique for behavioural questions:
- Situation — describe the context
- Task — explain your goal or responsibility
- Action — share the steps you took
- Result — outline the outcome
Reference checking and assessments
Depending on the role, you may be asked to complete:
- Reference and background checks
- Ability and/or personality assessments
- Pre-employment checks (health, drug &alcohol, Ministry of Justice, and/or police vetting)
- We’ll discuss all checks with you before they begin.
Please be ready to supply:
- A certified copy or original of either your birth certificate or passport
- Your driver’s licence or photo ID
Offer of employment
- If successful, you’ll first be contacted directly, followed by a written offer.
- If not successful, we’ll let you know promptly and provide feedback if requested.
Overseas applicants
- We are an accredited employer with Immigration NZ.
- We can provide information to support visa applications (if the role meets immigration criteria).
- For more details, visit Immigration NZ.
Summer student/graduate roles
- Enhance your future employment opportunities through meaningful work with us.
- Duration: 3–4 months (full-time, fixed-term).
- Who it’s for:
- Current or recently graduated tertiary students
- Programme includes:
- Tailored onboarding
- Cohort-based networking opportunities
- Comprehensive welcome and induction programme
- Applications open: Mid-July (via our careers portal)
Eligibility:
- Studying at a New Zealand university
- Currently studying or graduating in (Do we want to put year here)
- Eligible to work in New Zealand
- Available full-time November–February
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Page last updated 13 November 2025
Page last updated 13 November 2025
