Principal Advisor, Ministerial Services x2

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

We are looking for two exceptional Principal Advisors to join our busy Ministerial Services team. The role involves providing thought leadership across all aspects of the Ministerial Services team and delivery.

One role is permanent and will work closely with the Charter School Agency on all aspects of their Ministerial servicing, and the other role is a 12-month fixed term opportunity to work on Te Tāhuhu o te Mātauranga I the Ministry of Education focused content.

We enjoy what we do and are proud of the quality of the work we deliver. Our work is varied, and no two days are the same. There are regular opportunities to work on new subject areas, connect with our Ministers offices, develop the wider team’s capability, and to respond to emerging issues across the Education portfolio.

Salary range: $119,171 - $144,560 per annum + 3% 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 welcome applications from those with extensive Ministerial Servicing experience, deep knowledge of the Machinery of Government and managing official information requests. Familiarity with the education system would be an advantage.

You will have a strong work ethic, be focussed on delivery, have a willingness to learn and openly share your knowledge with others. You will work collaboratively with others, develop relationships at all levels, critically assess information presented to you and effectively communicate your ideas orally and through high-quality written advice.

You will also:

• Have excellent written and verbal communication skills, and be able to produce information that is accurate, clear and concise for any given audience
• Work effectively under pressure to manage competing demands and deliver high-quality work on time
• Be organised and process-orientated
• Be able to identify risk and develop mitigation strategies
• Have an eye for detail, a logical approach to problem-solving and an inquiring mind
• Have a relevant tertiary qualification, or equivalent experience
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain, an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori. You will also have knowledge and appreciation of te Tiriti o Waitangi | the Treaty of Waitangi as it applies in the public sector, or a willingness to learn.

Successful applicants will be entering a team that is highly respected, has a positive and supportive culture, and where growth and development is supported. We offer a flexible working environment and an insight into all aspects of te Tāhuhu and the education sector.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Ministerial Services is an advisory function that provides the confidence, connections and expertise to allow quality information and advice to flow where it is needed. We work at the interface between Ministers’ offices and Parliament, and our team includes the Portfolio Private Secretaries in our Ministers' offices.

Ministerial Services leads the development of strategically sound responses to correspondence and information requests, and our workstreams include:

• Official Information Act requests
• Ministerial correspondence
• Proactive release
• Ombudsman investigations
• Parliamentary questions
• Select Committee questions (including Estimates and Annual Review)
• Supporting responses to public inquiries (i.e. Royal Commissions).

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

If either of these opportunities interest you, please submit your cover letter and CV by using the ‘apply' button below. Please advise which position you are applying for in your cover letter (permanent or fixed term). We are keen to know your motivations, strengths, transferable skills and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.

For further information, please contact Lorraine Monahan, Manager Ministerial Services, at lorraine.monahan@education.govt.nz.

Applications close at midnight – Wednesday 1 April 2026. Please note that applications will be assessed as they come in, and shortlisting will commence before the closing date.

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.