Development Programme Officer - Fixed Term Contract

Role overview

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is hiring a Development Programme Officer to join its Development Civil Society Partnerships Unit within the Pacific and Development Group. This is a fixed-term position based in Wellington through to 23 December 2026. For current internal staff, the arrangement is a secondment.

The role sits inside the broader Development Partnerships division, which brings together four teams providing strategic policy input, specialist advice, and integrated support for design and delivery across areas such as energy, infrastructure, transport, scholarships, and civil society partnerships. The division also supports delivery work for Aid Posts.

The unit leads the Partnering for Impact approach, working with New Zealand civil society partners to create shared development outcomes. It manages co-investment partnerships that draw on CSO experience, public backing, and strong local relationships to deliver meaningful and lasting results.

What you will do

This position offers practical support across the full life cycle of development activities, from design and business case development through to procurement, contracting, and ongoing management. You will also help maintain the systems, processes, guidance, and coordination needed for consistent, high-quality delivery across a varied portfolio.

The role also contributes to the wider work of the Development Partnerships division.

• Help shape and deliver international development programmes, including business cases, procurement, contracting, and budget planning.
• Support programme and activity managers with budgeting, forecasting, and performance tracking across a varied portfolio.
• Work closely with the Programme Manager, Development Advisers, and other colleagues to support implementation, risk control, and delivery of development outcomes.
• Collaborate with internal teams, Posts, and external partners to ensure smooth implementation and delivery.
• Apply MFAT business processes consistently and maintain activity quality standards.

What the role offers

The salary range for this role is NZD 72,341 to a midpoint of NZD 80,379 in total remuneration, including the employer KiwiSaver contribution. The final offer will depend on the candidate’s level of experience.

MFAT promotes leadership, talent development, training, and flexible working arrangements in line with Public Service Commission guidance. The organisation is Rainbow Tick accredited and aims to create an inclusive workplace where people feel supported, respected, and able to belong.

About the organisation

MFAT represents New Zealand at home and overseas. Its people help make New Zealanders safer and more prosperous by building international relationships, influencing other countries and institutions, and advising the Government on global developments and their implications for New Zealand.

Application and clearance requirements

To be considered, applicants must be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents. The successful candidate must also be able to obtain and maintain a Confidential security clearance. This usually requires sufficient verifiable background history in countries where reliable checks can be completed; if those checks cannot be made, the application may not progress.

Applicants are asked to apply with a CV and cover letter. Support or accessibility requirements can be shared during the recruitment process. Applications close at midnight on Sunday, 21 June 2026.

Important notes

This is not a foreign policy or diplomatic position. It is a corporate specialist role based in central Wellington, New Zealand. Specialist roles are generally based in New Zealand, although overseas specialist opportunities may occasionally arise through a competitive process.

Candidates interested in a foreign policy or diplomatic career are encouraged to consider future graduate or mid-level foreign policy recruitment opportunities.