Associate - Employment

A leading national firm is seeking an Employment Associate to join their highly regarded team in Auckland or Christchurch. This is a unique opportunity to work alongside respected specialists who are known for their practical solutions and deep understanding in employment law. You will be part of a supportive environment that values collaboration and professional growth. The team is renowned for its pragmatic approach, providing clear guidance on complex employment matters for a diverse client base. With access to high-profile cases and the chance to contribute to significant projects, this role offers you the platform to develop your expertise while making a meaningful impact. The firm also offers flexible working arrangements, especially catering to school hours.

What you'll do:

• Provide comprehensive legal advice to employers on all stages of the employment relationship, ensuring clients receive clear and practical guidance tailored to their specific needs.
• Manage personal grievance claims from initial assessment through to resolution, including representation at mediation and before the Employment Relations Authority.
• Advise on a range of matters including complex restructures, minimum entitlement claims, medical incapacity issues, incentive schemes, exit negotiations, and compliance with relevant legislation such as the Holidays Act and Screen Industry Workers Act.
• Draft, review, and negotiate individual and collective employment agreements as well as employee incentive and bonus schemes to ensure robust documentation that protects client interests.
• Conduct thorough workplace investigations into bullying, harassment, disciplinary matters, and whistleblower complaints with sensitivity and professionalism.
• Assist with the employment aspects of large corporate transactions by identifying risks, advising on due diligence processes, and facilitating smooth transitions for all parties involved.

What you bring:

• 3+ PQE (post-qualification experience) with experience in employment law within a reputable firm, ideally handling a diverse range of matters including personal grievances, restructures, compliance issues, and workplace investigations.
• Strong drafting skills with experience preparing individual and collective employment agreements as well as incentive schemes tailored to client needs.
• Up-to-date knowledge of New Zealand’s employment legislation including but not limited to the Holidays Act 2003, Minimum Wage Act 1983, Employment Relations Act 2000, Screen Industry Workers Act 2022, and related regulations.
• Proven ability to provide clear, practical legal advice that takes into account all aspects of the employment relationship.

What sets this company apart:

The team is led by highly respected practitioners whose combined experience spans private practice at top-tier firms as well as senior in-house roles within major corporates. Employees benefit from flexible working arrangements designed around individual needs, such as catering to school hours, enabling you to balance professional ambitions with personal commitments—and there is a strong emphasis on continuous learning through training programmes and mentoring relationships.

What's next:

If you are ready to take the next step in your career as an Employment Associate within a truly collaborative team environment that values your expertise.

Robert Walters endeavours to review all applications in a maximum of five working days. If you have not received correspondence in this timeframe please do not hesitate to contact Sarah Kim on +64 9 374 7341.