Senior Advisor, Regulatory Policy

At the Civil Aviation Authority, we don’t just keep New Zealand’s skies safe and secure, we help shape the future of aviation.

As the industry evolves, so do we, through innovative technology, new ways of working, and a team of people who are passionate about what they do. 

With a new strategy to support this, we’ve got clarity on CAA’s long-term vision, where we will focus our effort, and the positive impacts we want to make through the delivery of our safety and security activities. 

Part of this is a work programme to update the Civil Aviation Rules — an important step in keeping New Zealand’s aviation system safe, efficient, and fit for the future. Now’s the time to get on board and help us ensure that the rules remain responsive to technological change, evolving industry needs, and international standards. 

If you're ready to grow your career while helping keep one of New Zealand’s most vital sectors safe and secure, this is your opportunity.

About the role

As a Senior Advisor, Regulatory Policy working on the Rules Update Programme t, you will be at the heart of the CAA’s system-shaping work. You’ll play a key role in modernising New Zealand’s Civil Aviation Rules, ensuring they are clear, future-ready, and aligned with international standards.

You will help lead the development of regulatory policy that informs rule changes, support the creation of regulatory interventions across the aviation system, and drive projects that directly influence how operators and participants meet their safety obligations.

You’ll work in a dynamic, supportive team that collaborates closely with technical specialists, operational experts, legal advisors, and industry stakeholders — all contributing to one of the CAA’s most important programmes of work.

This is a 2-year fixed term contract.

What you’ll do

In this role, you will:

• Lead the development of evidence-based regulatory policy advice to support changes to the Civil Aviation Rules.
• Support the design, review, and implementation of new and updated Rules, ensuring they remain fit for purpose, risk-based, and internationally aligned.
• Provide strategic, well-reasoned advice and briefings to senior CAA leaders, the Ministry of Transport, and the Minister.
• Engage effectively with aviation sector stakeholders, government agencies, and international partners to ensure policy and rule development is well-informed and robust.
• Lead consultation processes, contributing to the development of discussion papers and supporting stakeholder engagement across the sector.

What You Will Bring

You will have experience in policy development and a thorough understanding of the machinery of government. To be successful in this role, you will have the following attributes:

•  Experience in policy and project development in a regulatory environment.
• Well-developed ability to critically analyse and interpret complex information and make effective, well-reasoned decisions.
• Strong writing skills with the ability to convey complex information.
• Ability to coach and mentor other staff members.
• Proactive and effective management of internal and external relationships, using influencing and persuading techniques.

The salary range for this role is $115 536 to $141 751. The starting salary will be dependent on your skills and experience and will take into account internal relativities within the team.

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to influence how aviation rules are implemented and understood across New Zealand. Your work will directly support safer operations, clearer compliance pathways, and a more effective aviation regulatory system—during a time of major transformation.

At the CAA, you’ll find:

• Work that directly contributes to public and sector safety
• A collaborative and supportive environment
• Opportunities to shape national guidance frameworks
• A diverse and inclusive workplace that values your expertise and perspective

Apply Now

If you’re passionate about clear communication, regulatory effectiveness, and supporting safe aviation outcomes, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply directly by completing the online application form and submitting your CV and Cover Letter. Please note that your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so highlight how your experience aligns with the key skills required for this role.

We are committed to ensuring accessibility throughout the recruitment process. If there is any support, we can provide to ensure the process is equitable and accessible for you, please let us know.

For more information on the role, please view the position description. For any questions, please contact Patrice Wilkin on recruitment@caa.govt.nz. *Please note we can not accept email applications.

Applications close: Tuesday 06/01/2026.

*Please note: we will assess applications as they are received, and the closing date may be earlier.