Policy Adviser - Non-Tarriff Barriers

Policy Adviser – Non-Tariff Barriers

There has never been a more critical time to work on international trade.

Join a newly established team focused on unlocking the full potential of New Zealand’s Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the Government’s ambition to double export value in ten years by helping businesses better leverage our FTAs and resolve non-tariff barriers.

We’re looking for an Adviser to support work on identifying, tracking, and resolving NTBs, working closely with MFAT Embassies and High Commissions, other government agencies, and New Zealand exporters.

About the role - Kōrero mō te tūranga

The Adviser – Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) is a key role within the newly established FTA Boost Unit in the Trade Policy Engagement and Implementation Division. The Unit is focused on leveraging New Zealand’s FTAs and addressing NTBs to ensure businesses can fully benefit from our trade agreements.

The Policy Adviser – Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) is a key role within the newly established FTA Boost Unit in the Trade Policy Engagement and Implementation Division. The Unit is focused on leveraging New Zealand’s FTAs and addressing NTBs to ensure businesses can fully benefit from our trade agreements.

In this role you will:

• Support development and implementation of NTB resolution strategies across government
• Provide policy advice on emerging NTBs and their impact on New Zealand businesses
• Report on NTB resolution progress to Ministers and senior officials
• Support prioritisation frameworks for NTB resolution
• Deliver training to MFAT Embassies and High Commissions and other agencies on identifying and resolving NTBs
• Contribute to broader FTA leveraging and business engagement work
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders across government and industry

For more detail you can view the position description here.

The appointing salary range for this role is $106,973 to $125,850 total remuneration, inclusive of our 3% KiwiSaver employer contribution. Appointment within this range will depend on the skills and experience of the successful candidate.

Who are we looking for? - Mā‎ wai te mahi nei?

We’re looking for a curious and capable policy professional with:

• At least 4 years’ experience in policy or relevant private sector work
• A background in economics, trade, law, public diplomacy or similar
• Experience in trade policy or NTB resolution (preferred)
• Experience in economic regulation or technical barriers to trade (desirable)
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Project management and stakeholder engagement capabilities
• Understanding of government decision-making processes
• Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Te Reo Māori, and Māori customs and protocols would be beneficial

Why MFAT? - Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Aorere

We are committed to a focus on leadership, talent, training and development, and flexible work options consistent with guidance from the Public Service Commission.  Check out our benefits page to find out more about why we love working here.

MFAT is Rainbow Tick accredited. We value diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive culture where everyone feels supported, valued, and a sense of belonging.  We welcome applications from people from a diverse range of backgrounds.

About us - Mō mātou

Our people represent New Zealand on and offshore, and in doing so make New Zealanders safer and more prosperous.  By building connections with and influencing other countries and international institutions, we advance New Zealand’s interests and pursue New Zealand's values.  We provide advice to the Government on the implications for New Zealand of what is happening in the world. 

To Apply/Interested? Me pēhea te tuku tono

Apply today with your CV and cover letter.

To be considered for this position at Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade you must be a New Zealand Citizen.

It is a requirement of the role that you must be able to obtain and maintain a relevant New Zealand Government security clearance.

Use this online tool to self-check your eligibility for a Secret clearance. Please note that this tool is not part of the formal security clearance process: http://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/eligibility-tool

Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

If you have any questions or issues applying, you may contact [email protected]

Applications close at 9:00pm on Sunday 15 February 2026.

Please note: This is not a Foreign Policy/diplomatic role.  This is a ‘Corporate’ role (known here as a specialist role based in central Wellington, NZ).  

While it is not usual for specialist staff to be ‘posted’ outside of NZ, from time to time a specialist role overseas becomes available at one of our embassies, high commissions, missions or consulates. To be considered for one of these positions you would need to apply and be considered via a competitive recruitment process.

If you do have an interest in an MFAT foreign policy/diplomatic career, you would be welcome to apply for this either via our graduate recruitment or mid-level foreign policy recruitment campaigns.