Legal Administrator

Support a collaborative and professional legal services team

Enjoy variety and challenge with admin, compliance and project support

Contribute to a diverse and engaging work environment. 

Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role

We are seeking a skilled Legal Administrator to provide high-quality administrative and executive support to our University’s Legal Services team. In this vital role, you will work closely with the Legal Counsel to manage diaries and schedules, coordinate meetings, prepare documents, support compliance functions, and assist with project tracking. You will also act as a key point of contact for internal stakeholders and external partners, ensuring smooth communication and efficient legal workflows.

To succeed, you will bring excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle sensitive information with discretion. Experience working in a legal, compliance, or other confidential environment will be highly regarded. This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive professional who enjoys variety, thrives in a fast-paced setting, and wants to contribute to the success of a dynamic in-house legal team.

Salary will be in the range of $71,275 to $84,695 per year based on skills, knowledge and experience brought to the position. This is a full-time role (37.5 hours a week), based on our Hillcrest Campus. 

For more information on the role please see the position description. For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Keely Smith, Senior Legal Counsel, keely.smith@waikato.ac.nz. All applications must be submitted through the online portal, emailed applications will not be accepted.

Ko wai koe? – Who are you?

You will be an experienced administrator or EA/PA, ideally with a background in legal, education, or professional services. Highly organised and detail-oriented, you excel at managing multiple priorities, coordinating complex schedules, and producing accurate, well-presented documents. With strong communication skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office and document management systems, you are confident navigating confidential or sensitive environments with professionalism and discretion.

Personally, you bring a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and the ability to build effective relationships across all levels. You are motivated, adaptable under pressure, and committed to supporting a culture of openness, collaboration, and excellence. Familiarity with legal processes, compliance frameworks, or document management platforms will be an advantage.

Don’t meet every single requirement?

Research shows that some people are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. At The University of Waikato, we’re committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and genuine workplace. So, if you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t perfectly match every listed qualification, we still encourage you to apply. You might be just the right person for this or another opportunity on our team.

Ko wai mātou? – Who are we? 

The office of the Senior Legal Counsel is responsible for providing legal advice and services to Council, the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, the Executive Committee, the Senior Leadership Team and staff of the University of Waikato.

He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?

We want you to be part of our success!  Our University stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations which can be found here. 

Ko te Tangata – For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all. 

E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

Applications Close on Tuesday 16th September 2025

Requisition number: 1002856

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