Principal Data 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

This is a fixed term opportunity for 12 months

This Principal Analyst role is a unique opportunity to contribute to a high-profile government review. You’ll support the undertaking of the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Funding Review, a key initiative aimed at designing a fit-for-purpose funding system.

Sitting within the Forecasting and Modelling team (Te Pae Aronui), and jointly reporting to Forecasting & Modelling and ECE System Investment Policy, this role offers exposure to both policy and analytical leadership. You’ll provide high-quality modelling, costings, and advice to internal teams and a Ministerial Advisory Group (MAG), and engage with agencies including Treasury, IRD, and MSD.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys cross-sector collaboration, analytical leadership, and contributing to real change in the education system.

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

We’re looking for a Principal Analyst who brings curiosity, judgement, and an inclusive mindset. You’ll need to be confident developing and communicating robust analysis to support complex decision-making.

You will have:

• A tertiary qualification in a relevant field (e.g. economics, statistics, finance, policy, evaluation)
• Experience in financial modelling or public sector forecasting.
• Strong communication skills — including the ability to explain complex ideas clearly to non-technical audiences.
• Proven ability to lead or contribute to analytical work that informs investment, funding, or policy decisions.
• Experience engaging across agencies and with Ministers or senior leaders.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

In return, we can offer you the opportunity to work on a high-impact, fast-moving programme of work where analytical insight directly shapes funding, policy and investment decisions. You’ll be part of a team that values learning, high-quality work, and collaborative problem-solving.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

The Forecasting and Modelling team (within Te Pae Aronui – Data and Insights) is responsible for producing the Ministry’s major expenditure forecasts — including early learning, teacher salaries, and school operational funding. Our work directly informs Budget decisions and Ministerial advice.

We also support policy development through targeted costings and modelling, such as for the ECE Funding Review. Our focus is on delivering insights that are methodologically robust, transparent, and useful for decision-makers.

You’ll be part of a technically skilled, highly engaged team with a strong culture of learning, constructive challenge, and support. We work closely with analysts, policy teams, regional staff, and agencies like Treasury to ensure our work contributes meaningfully to system improvement.

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 Ken Maher, Acting Manager at ken.maher@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Wednesday, 04 June 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.