Closing date: Tuesday 26 May 2026
E tū is Aotearoa’s largest private sector union, representing tens of thousands of workers across six industries. Together, we stand strong to ensure fair pay, decent working conditions, and a better future for all.
Our name reflects our values and commitment, inspired by a Māori waiata:
E tū kahikatea
Hei whakapae ururoa
Awhi mai awhi atu
Tātou tātou e
Stand like the kahikatea tree
To brave the storms
Embrace and receive each other
We are one together
At E tū, we campaign, organise, and empower members to have a real voice at their workplaces. From workplace representation and legal advice to education on work rights and political advocacy, we provide the tools and support workers need to thrive.
If you share our passion for creating fair and just workplaces and communities, join us in making a real difference. Together, we are stronger.
Job Description
- Responsible for upholding the Union’s vision, values, plans and culture.
- Act as Legal counsel and advocate for the Union and on behalf of union members with their employers, in mediation, the Employment Relations Authority, the Employment Court, Court of Appeal, ACC Reviews and before professional regularory bodies.
- Research relevant statutes and case law and provide high-quality legal advice to the senior leadership team, team leaders, organisers, delegates and members.
- Advise on strategies and mechanisms for solving employment disputes.
- Interpret statutes and collective and individual agreements.
- Provide legal support for collective bargaining.
- Analyse government industrial relations and other relevant policies and analyse/assess their impact on E tū.
- Participate in the development and delivery of legal education programmes for industrial staff.
- Comply with the statutory requirements of lawyers under the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act 2008 and the Rules of Conduct and Client Care for lawyers.
- Responsible for effective communication with relevant people, within and outside the organization.
- Responsible for maintaining effective records and reporting on outcomes related to planned work.
Allocated duties not specifically outlined within the position description within the capacity, skills and experience normally expected from a person occupying this position
Desired Skills and Experience
- Legal qualification and eligibility to hold a current New Zealand practising certificate
- Knowledge of industrial law and legal principles from a trade union perspective
- Knowledge of industrial relations processes in NZ
- Knowledge of the legal duties on Barristers and Solicitors under the Rules of Professional Conduct
- Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
- Ability to prepare and present legal cases, positions and strategies
- Ability to relate effectively to people
- Ability to represent, liaise and network with people
- Ability to negotiate, advocate and facilitate
- Ability to plan, organise and think strategically
- Ability to make decisions, achieve results and understand the implications of decisions made
Contact person: Lorraine Cunningham