WorkSafe New Zealand seeks to hire WHS inspectors

WorkSafe New Zealand Seeks to Hire WHS Inspectors

WorkSafe New Zealand has opened its first recruitment round for health and safety inspectors in 2025, with the regulator keen to hear from candidates ready to help build safer workplaces across Aotearoa.

"We are currently integrating the full range of assessment and investigation work in our inspectorate. This will create a supportive training ground for our incoming inspectors to springboard from," says WorkSafe's Head of Inspectorate Rob Pope.

$2.7 Million Boost to Inspectorate Numbers

WorkSafe is allocating an additional $2.7 million each year toward expanding its inspectorate team. This funding supports a broader push to strengthen WHS oversight nationwide and grow the pool of qualified inspectors available to respond to workplace incidents.

The expansion reflects a wider strategy to strengthen frontline capability, ensuring new inspectors receive practical, hands-on grounding before taking on independent casework.

Priority Sectors for New Inspectors

This move forms part of a new strategy targeting sectors with the highest rates of work-related harm, namely construction, manufacturing, forestry and agriculture. WorkSafe notes that a background in these industries would be highly advantageous, though not essential for applicants.

Given construction's consistently high injury rates, inspectors placed within this sector will play a critical role in reducing preventable harm on sites nationwide. Anyone with prior exposure to construction, manufacturing or heavy industry environments may find their experience particularly valuable during assessment.

• Construction
• Manufacturing
• Forestry
• Agriculture

Who Should Apply?

WorkSafe is casting a wide net, welcoming applicants from varied professional backgrounds, including those transitioning from human resources, compliance or operational roles. Experience in human resources can be especially useful, since inspectors often liaise directly with employers and staff during site visits and investigations.

Formal WHS qualifications aren't mandatory, though familiarity with workplace health and safety principles will help candidates settle into the role faster. Comprehensive training is provided to bridge any knowledge gaps once successful applicants come aboard.

Organisations reviewing their own compliance obligations ahead of increased regulatory scrutiny may find it useful to consult resources such as New Zealand OHS/WHS Management Systems or sector-specific tools like the HSW Manual for New Zealand.

For construction businesses specifically, maintaining robust documentation and site procedures remains essential as inspection activity increases across high-risk sectors.

Further Reading

For background on WorkSafe's leadership and recent organisational milestones, see our coverage of WorkSafe New Zealand appointing its new boss and the regulator's Rainbow Tick accreditation. Employers seeking clarity on compliance requirements can also review our Frequently Asked Questions for New Zealand.

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