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

• Te Poutāhū | Curriculum Centre
• Wellington-based

We are seeking an experienced Principal Advisor, Ministerials to join our Business Support team in Te Poutāhū.

As the Principal Advisor you will provide thought leadership and guidance to Government, Commissioning and Ministerial Advisors, Manager, Business Support, GM Business Operations and Chief Advisors across Te Poutāhū.

In this role, you will manage a diverse portfolio of work, including Ministerial correspondence, Official Information Act requests, Ombudsman investigations, Select Committee and Parliamentary questions, Ministerial direct requests, media enquiries, rapid responses, fact checks, communications products, and education reports.

You will ensure responses are accurate, timely, and aligned with organisational priorities, while maintaining strong relationships across the Ministry and with external stakeholders.

Salary range: $120,171 - $145,560 per annum + 3% kiwi saver.  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

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
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

 About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

The purpose of Te Poutāhū is to lead the national curricula for Aotearoa New Zealand and associated systems and processes of assessment and aromatawai.

We design, develop and provide curriculum services for teachers, kaiako, leaders, ākonga, their whānau and communities that reflect their identities, languages and cultures. We bring together curriculum, teaching expertise and evidence for the development, support and review of inclusive curricula, assessment and NCEA. Our strengths are across te reo Māori, mātauranga Māori, disability, inclusive learning support and culturally relevant content so that Te Mahau supports learning that is inclusive for all ākonga.

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 Zoreen Ali, Manager Business Support at zoreen.ali@education.govt.nz 

Applications close Midnight – Wednesday, 21 October 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.