Policy Analyst

Help shape the future of Education

We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes

Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

Policy Analyst - Tertiary Skills, Quality and Governance Policy

• Permanent, full-time
• Wellington-based
• Learn in this established and supportive group

We are looking for an experienced, capable and committed Policy Analyst to join our Tertiary Skills Quality Governance team in the Tertiary Policy group within Te Pou Kaupapahere, the Ministry’s policy shop.

The  Tertiary Skills, Quality, and Governance Policy team takes a policy lead on education system issues at the point of connection between education, employment and training, with a particular focus on strategic connections, system transformation and direct engagement with significant players in this area - including Government agencies and professional associations. The team is the Ministry of Education representative on the OECD Vocational Skills group and the lead for strategic long-term policy thinking about employers’ interests and contributions to education and training, Quality Assurance and Governance for Tertiary providers and skills shortages/labour market policy settings.

Salary range: $74,815 - $90,347 per annum plus KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.

For more details about the role, you can view the Job Description here.

About you | Mōhou ake

We are looking for committed and experienced Policy Analyst who will be able to hit the ground running and bring passion, energy and analytical ability. We would like to hear from you if you have proven policy experience, and:

• have excellent knowledge of policy and government processes
• have excellent oral and written communication skills
• have excellent interpersonal skills and a positive approach to team work
• have experience developing evidence-based policy analysis and advice
• are able to develop and work on complex and sensitive policy projects or programmes of work
• thrive in a fast-paced policy environment
• are interested in establishing strong working relationships across the wider Ministry and key government agencies
• demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori
• have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) as it applies in the public sector
• the ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

The Tertiary Policy group leads interesting and challenging work programmes aimed at strengthening tertiary education at a systems level to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent results for all learners. The Ministry’s role in tertiary education policy offers exciting challenges for policy professionals, including advising on the design of a new tertiary education strategy and how to give effect to Ministerial priorities across the tertiary education portfolios. Our work sits across social and economic policy, and we work closely with other government agencies including TEC, NZQA, MBIE, MSD, ENZ, and others. 

The Tertiary Policy group is part of Te Pou Kaupapahere, the Ministry of Education Policy directorate responsible for whole-of-system, end-to-end policy integration covering early learning, compulsory schooling, and tertiary including Māori medium, te reo Māori, Pacific and Learning Support. We hold the relationship with all Ministers and provide integrated policy advice to them. We collaborate across government organisations so our advice to Ministers is joined up.

We’re proud of the culture in our policy teams. We appreciate and support each other and develop strong relationships that underpin our ability to deliver good work.  And we look forward to welcoming you!.

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.

For further information, please contact Eleonora Sparagna, Senior Policy Manager, for more information at Eleonora.Sparagna@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Friday 21 August 2026.  

We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.