Catering & Laundry Instructor - Christchurch Men's Prison

New Zealand Government; Canterbury; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A government agency in Canterbury is looking for a Catering & Laundry Instructor. This full-time role involves supervising and training individuals in prison to build skills and confidence for future employment, thereby aiding their reintegration into society. The position offers a salary between $72,514 and $80,876 per annum, with potential progression to $90,322. Applicants should possess trade qualifications and experience in catering. Training will be provided through the Corrections Officer Development Pathway.

Qualifications

• Passion for the catering industry at a professional level.
• Ability to operate in a culturally diverse setting.
• Eligible for a full NZ driver licence.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct supervision and practical training in a commercial kitchen.
• Help people in prison build confidence and develop skills.
• Enable attainments of NZQA qualifications.

Skills

Catering experience

Communication skills

Team development

Health and safety practices

Cultural awareness

Education

London City & Guilds 706/1 and 706/2 or equivalent

Job description

## Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role* Full-time, permanent opportunity at Christchurch Men's Prison* Help people in prison build confidence and skills for future employment* Help create safer communities by supporting reintegration through work*'Kotahi anō te kaupapa, ko te oranga o te iwi' – ‘There is only one purpose to our work: the wellness and wellbeing of our people.***Mō te tūnga | About the role**Prison Industries provide people in prison with meaningful engagement and equip them with valuable work experience and skills for the future. They are an important part of working towards reintegration and can increase chances of obtaining successful employment on release. Industries are also critical in providing essential services for the operation of the prison.Our prison kitchen at Christchurch Men's prison is responsible for producing approximately 900 meals, three times a day, for the site. As a Catering & Laundry Instructor, you will be providing direct supervision and practical training within a commercial kitchen setting. From general meal preparation and delivery to corporate catering, you will enable our people to achieve NZQA qualifications and provide a platform of good working habits for them to take forward to the future. The role also provides support to the laundry operation as part of the wider Internal Services team.We see our Prison Industries playing an integral role for people in prison to reclaim their mana and restore themselves to their rightful place in their whānau and society.Instructors have the same classification as Corrections Officers and, as such, complete the same initial training courses. This will involve on-site training as well as residential training at our National Learning Centre in Upper Hutt, Wellington, to focus on the custodial elements of the position.The hours of work will be on a standard shift basis of 80 hours per fortnight, Monday to Sunday, 0600hrs – 1800hrs. Working public holidays, along with the possibility of some overtime or callouts, may be required.**Mōu | About you**This is a role with unique challenges and rewards. Our Industries Team supports men in prison to build work habits and skills that increase their chances of finding sustainable, legitimate mahi upon release—reducing reoffending and making our communities safer. To be successful in this role, you will ideally have:* Experience and a proven passion in the catering industry at a professional level.* London City & Guilds 706/1 and 706/2 or equivalent trade qualifications.* Outstanding health & safety practices.* Exceptional communication skills and the ability to develop effective relationships.* The ability to motivate and develop people within a team environment.* The ability to operate in a culturally diverse setting and has an understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.* A full NZ driver licence (or is eligible to obtain one).* Experience as an adult educator or NZAQ assessor (4098) is an advantage.The latter stages of the recruitment process involve pre-employment checks including a drug test, medical test, physical assessment and police vetting. Please note – this Criminal History Check is exempt from the Clean Slate Act. Please ensure you declare all offences (even those outside of 7 years) in your application.**Ngā painga | The benefits**The starting salary for this role is $72,514 - $80, 876 per annum with progression up to $90,322 possible in accordance with our criteria.To support you in this role, you will go through the Corrections Officer Development Pathway, which includes:* 10 weeks of training, with 5 weeks delivered at our National Learning Centre in Upper Hutt.* Comprehensive preparation to ensure you are confident and capable in your role.Join Ara Poutama Aotearoa - Department of Corrections, where your work will contribute to improving public safety, reducing re-offending, and address the overrepresentation of Māori in correctional facilities. As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), and whānau (relationships) to guide our work and achieve the goals of our strategy.We value in our workforce, and as a Public Service organisation we are committed to building a workforce that reflects the public we serve. We strive to make our recruitment process fair, and we encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.**Tono ināianei | Apply Now**To submit an application and view the position description, click the apply link. All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency – applications received via email will not be considered.When applying, submit a tailored **CV and a cover letter** describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience and the alignment to our work.**Applications close on: Sunday 11th January 2026.**If you have any questions or want to learn more about a career with us, contact [e-mail], or visit **careers.corrections.govt.nz.**| Location: | Canterbury (Waitaha) || Category: | Education || Attachment: | (PDF, 358KB) Position Description |