Principal Advisor

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

This is a full-time permanent role based in Wellington

We’re looking for a Principal Advisor to lead service design in our Operational Design and Development team. You’ll play a key role in designing services, tools, and processes that improve how education is delivered. You’ll work on high-impact initiatives that need inclusive, strategic, and creative design leadership. You’ll also have an essential role to develop service design capability across our teams.

Salary range: $118,371 - $143,760 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

You’ll bring deep experience in service design and know how to design for complexity and real-world delivery. You’ll help drive initiatives that centre people, uphold Te Tiriti, and connect strategy to lived experience. You’re confident using a range of tools and comfortable picking up new ways of working.

You work well with others and help bring clarity, direction, and momentum to complex problems.

You will also offer:

• Extensive service design experience in complex systems or public sector environments
• Skills in working collaboratively and effectively
• The ability to design from insight to implementation, across a range of initiatives
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

You’ll join a thoughtful, collaborative team that values good thinking, good design, and good culture. We offer a supportive work environment where your ideas are valued and your growth is encouraged. You’ll have opportunities to stretch your skills, contribute to meaningful work, and help shape positive change in the education system.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

The Operational Design and Development function brings together expertise in operational policy, design, and business process management. We work through a matrix structure, connecting across teams and disciplines. Our focus is improving experience, effectiveness, and efficiency of education services.

We do this to support equitable and excellent outcomes for tamariki and mokopuna.

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 Pirihira Hollings, Manager Design and Development Practice at Pirihira.hollings@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Thursday, 17 July 2025

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.