Careers
Employee perks
We are committed to inspiring and developing our staff, because we know that our people make a better world. Kia tū ki te tahi – we are united in thought, purpose and action.
We look after our kaimahi
We take the work-life balance and well-being of our staff seriously. Our initiatives make it easy for staff to stay healthy and supported. We encourage all staff to make the most of the great things we have on offer, and welcome ideas for new initiatives.
A range of staff benefits
We take the work-life balance and staff well-being seriously. We encourage all staff to make the most of the great things we offer and suggest new initiatives to add to this list.
Annual flu vaccinations
Influenza can be serious and vaccination is your best defence against this virus. We offer all staff free vaccinations via Student Health each year between March and May. Out-of-Dunedin staff are able to have their vaccine at their local GP clinic and have the cost fully reimbursed.
Polybikes
Got a meeting in town to attend? Why not take one of the modern, easy-to-ride bicycles available to staff and enjoy the exercise. Keys and instructions are available from main administration in F Block.
Gym facilities
The Otago Institute of Sport Exercise and Health houses a purpose-built gym facility at the Sargood Centre on Logan Park Drive. Their world-class gym facilities are available to all staff, with access available outside of the teaching times. Contact the team at OISA to register your interest.
Bike or run to work?
We support healthy forms of transport. Showers are available in blocks F, H and G, and bike racks are located around our Campuses.
Polykids Childcare
Polykids Childcare Centre provides early childhood education and cares for children up to five years of age. Spaces are limited. Contact Polykids Childcare Centre.
Harassment and bullying prevention
Everyone at Otago Polytechnic has a right to work and learn in a safe, harassment- and bullying-free environment. In line with our values of Caring and Responsibility, we work hard to provide a great environment free from harassment and bullying. For further information and who to contact see our Harassment and Bullying Prevention and Management Policy and the information posted around Campus.
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
All staff are eligible for free support through confidential and independent professional counselling. Whatever the issue, big or small, there is someone who is there to listen and support.
Social Club
We understand the importance of having fun in the workplace. Our fun committee organise frequent social gatherings and events that all staff are encouraged to attend such as quiz nights, fancy dress and much more.
Living Campus
Living Campus is the first of its kind in Australiasia and involves turning Otago Polytechnic's existing Dunedin Campus into a vibrant community garden and a sustainable model of urban agriculture.
Travel and health insurance
Southern Cross Healthcare offer a discounted rate for Otago Polytechnic employees who join – please contact the Human Resources Department for details. For some staff, subsidised health care is offered – your entitlements will be outlined in your employment agreement.
Take advantage of discounted travel insurance – contact the Contracts Office.
Great deals and discounts
Show your staff ID card to receive discounts at Bunning’s Warehouse, Mitre 10, Dulux and the University Bookshop.
And contact us to find out about other great deals:
- Hertz Car Rental, hire cars for private use. Ask the Contracts Office.
- Mobil Fuel Cards – The Skeggs Foundation offers a Mobil Fuel Card discount on petrol and diesel. Contact People & Culture for more information.
Otago Polytechnic staff enjoy a range of benefits and little perks that add to greater joy and an easier life.
A few extra days’ holidays on us:
Otago Polytechnic gives all general staff who would typically work the Tuesday after Easter Monday that day as a gift day, without deducting it from your annual leave balance.
The three working days between Christmas and New Year are also given as “gift” days to all Otago Polytechnic general staff (whose contracts otherwise provide for five weeks’ annual leave).
All permanent staff (or those working more than two years, fixed term) receive up to $750 per year towards professional development through their Individual Development Plans.
Plus, if there are places remaining on programmes we teach (long or short-term), our staff can often join them at very discounted rates. Ask Customer Services which programmes are available.
What our long-serving staff has to say
Not one or two, but some of our staff members have been working with us for over three decades! The passion with which our people work towards a common goal is a testament to the culture we build here. Hear it from our long-serving staff about what makes us unique.
