Community Innovation Specialist

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

We are seeking a Community Innovation Specialist to support the delivery of programmes that advance equity, inclusion, social cohesion, and community wellbeing. This role contributes to initiatives across areas such as community-led development, food equity (kai), welcoming new communities, and other programmes, working in partnership with community groups, central government, community organisations, and internal stakeholders. This is an opportunity to support communities to lead their own solutions, ensuring their knowledge, strengths, and aspirations are at the centre of decision-making.

In this role, you will:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with diverse communities and sector partners
• Support the co-design and delivery of community-led initiatives and programmes
• Enable communities to identify priorities and develop sustainable, locally driven solutions
• Provide insights and evidence to inform strategic decision-making
• Contribute to innovative approaches that enhance participation, inclusion, and wellbeing
• Apply an understanding of Te Ao Māori and demonstrate confidence in using te reo Māori in appropriate contexts

He kōrero mōu: About you

You are a collaborative and adaptable professional who is committed to achieving positive community outcomes. You bring experience working across community, public, or social sectors, and understand the value of partnership and community-led approaches. You are comfortable engaging within Te Ao Māori contexts and have the confidence to use te reo Māori in your day-to-day work, supporting culturally responsive and inclusive practice.

You may have experience in areas such as:

• Community-led development and co-design
• Equity-focused programmes (e.g. food systems/kai, inclusion, social cohesion)
• Stakeholder engagement and relationship management
• Facilitation, advocacy, or policy development
• Supporting diverse communities, including migrant, ethnic, or new communities

Your ability to connect people, ideas, and opportunities will be key to enabling impactful and sustainable outcomes.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

You’ll join a passionate and supportive team committed to making a difference for Auckland’s communities. We offer a flexible and inclusive working environment, along with the opportunity to contribute to meaningful, region-wide outcomes.  At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement.

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. 

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of.

Additionally, as part of our Auckland Council Group, you will gain access to many benefits and discounts including:

• Option to buy an additional week’s annual leave
• Four weeks annual leave, plus an additional week after five years
• Additional day of leave for community activities
• Discounts on attractions such as the Maritime Museum, Auckland Zoo & Auckland Art Gallery
• Discounted Health & Life Insurance Policies
• Flexible and supportive work environment
• 3.5% KiwiSaver on top of your salary

As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits

To view the position description – please click here

This is a fixed-term, full-time position (40 hours per week) for six months.

Applications close: 11:00pm, Sunday 10 May 2026

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.