In this series, we look at some of our frontline roles at Corrections and help to break them down for jobseekers.

This article focuses on Operations Advisers, who are part of a 24/7 team supporting the management of electronically monitored offenders and defendants in the community.

What do Operations Advisers do?

Operations Advisers use modern GPS technology and contact centre platforms to monitor those on electronically-monitored bail and community-based sentences and support the wider justice system. They make important decisions and support other Corrections teams to carry out their work.

Operations Advisers support people to carry out their sentences in the community by helping them to comply with any conditions they may have. They also have an important role in identifying and responding to any breach of conditions to keep the community safe. A typical day could involve fielding calls, assessing risk, responding to alerts, and liaising with police or probation officers.

“We all have the same goal. We want to keep the community safe.” – Electronic monitoring team leader 

What makes a good Operations Adviser?

Corrections’ Electronic Monitoring team works with complex personalities, different cultures, and complicated requests. Communication is central to the role, which involves coordinating with other teams in Corrections as well as other organisations and agencies. 

Operations Advisers need to be problem solvers and able to think on their feet, with strong relationship management and investigation skills. They need to have resilience and maturity, as they will often be faced with challenging behaviours or situations. 

“Keep an open mind. You need to have humility, and you would need to be very adaptable – adaptable to change; adaptable to the environment that we work in. There is no other job in New Zealand like this.” – Operations Adviser

Complex, varied work

The team monitors safety on an around-the-clock roster. It’s a busy, fast-paced role, with an energetic and tight-knit team that are committed to keeping the community safe.

Each day brings unique scenarios to work through, which helps to keep the job interesting and means you’re always learning. Each caller is different, and you need to be able to connect and liaise with different internal and external partners to understand and solve issues. 

“I would probably say you never expect what you’re going to get with the next call that you have.” – Operations Adviser

Opportunities to make a difference

Operations Advisers play an important role in upholding public safety. They listen, understand, and assist the different teams they work with, as well as people on electronic monitoring. They also ensure appropriate action is taken where breaches of conditions are identified.

“The most exciting part of the role is contributing to the community and helping people with their reintegration process.” – Operations Adviser

Operations Advisers are the calm voice on the phone and the problem-solver behind the scenes. If you’re someone who thrives under pressure, communicates clearly, and wants to do meaningful work with a tight-knit team, a career as an Operations Adviser offers a unique and rewarding path.

Learn more about our electronic monitoring team.