Principal Data Scientist

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OurData and Automationtīmais looking for aPrincipalData Scientist. This opportunity is permanent, full time, and based in Pōneke (Wellington).

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This role is a unique opportunity toleadhigh-profilemicrodataresearchinto outcomes for Māori and work on things that are of strategic importance toTePuniKōkirisuch as:

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• the reach and impact of Whānau Ora(aculturallybasedand whānau-centredprogramme tohelp whānau achieve their aspirations).
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• insights into Māori businesses and the people who work for them.
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• insights intothe outcomes experienced by fluenttereoMāori speakers.
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Tewhaiwāhitanga| The opportunity\n

Sitting within the Strategypuniand reportingto the Manager, Data & Automation, you will beresponsible for deliveringmicrodata researchinitiativeswithin the Statistics NZ Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI) and Longitudinal Business Database (LBD)which supportTePuniKōkirito achieve our Strategic Priorities, through providing technical delivery of advanced analytics projects and products –to support strategy, policy,and public sector monitoring.

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You will conduct research using Statistics New Zealand’s IDIand LBD,gatherrequirementsformicrodataresearch projects,and clearly communicateinsightsand research findingsto decision‑makers.

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The likely appointment range is$124,242–$138,046,based on skills and experience. The full grade for this role is$124,242–$165,657with a mid-point of$138,046.

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For more information about the skills and experience required for this position, please see the job description below.

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To be successful in this role, you will bring:

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• Expertisein data analysisusingR, SQL,orsimilar products
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• Apost-graduatequalification in data science, statistics,or similar field, andsignificantexperiencein a data science delivery role
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• Experience working within the Stats NZ IDIand/or Longitudinal Business Database (LBD)
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• Experience defining proxy measures where direct outcomes are not observable
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• Experience in programme evaluation, impact assessment, or causal inference in social sector contexts
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• Strong attention to data quality, with experienceidentifying, investigating, and resolving data quality issues in large and complex datasets
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• Proven ability to work effectively under pressure, managing multiple priorities and deliveringhigh‑qualityoutputs within shorttimeframes
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• Strong writtenand oralcommunication skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise, andwell‑structuredreports, briefings, and methodological documentation for a range of audiences
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• Understanding of Kaupapa Māori research principles,Māori data governance,and ethical considerations in analytics
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• Strong data visualisation skills, Power BI experience would be an advantage.
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Tāuewhaiai | What you will get in return\n

TePuniKōkiriis a diverse and rewarding working environment full of passionatekaimahifocused on creating solutions that will help our communities. We are guided by our values ofTeWero,Manaakitanga,HeToaTakitini,andTureTangata.

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There is more to life than just work and we encourage ourkaimahitomaintainthe right balance between mahi and their personal lives. Your whānau is just as important as you, sowe'recommitted to providing incentives and opportunities that help ourkaimahiand their whānau to thrive, including:

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• A range of allowances including childcare, optical,hauora/wellbeing,andtereoMāoriproficiency
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• Kaimahidevelopment and career options, including studyassistance
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• Enhanced parental leave provisions
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TePuniKōkiri| Ministry of Māori Development\n

We are committed to our vision of 'Thriving Whānau' - when whānau are thriving, so do their communities, hapū, iwi and all of Aotearoa.TePuniKōkirileads policy advice to the Government on Māori development, and Iwi and Māori relations with the Crown. Our people are at the heart of the work we do – using our approaches to improve outcomes to, for and with Māori, and to drive our efforts to build an Aotearoa where whānau can all stand, thrive,and belong.

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We invite applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. We believe that diversity fuels innovation and enriches our collective strength. Your unique perspectives, skills, and heritage contribute to our mission of advancing Māori aspirations and well-being.

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We want to make sure any accessibility requirements you may haveare well supported so the selection process isequitablefor everyone. Please let us know if there are any adjustments orsupportwe can offer to make our process more accessible to you by emailing:[email protected]

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