Senior UX/UI Designer

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’re looking for a Senior UX/UI Designer to help create and improve the Ministry’s digital and data products and services, including online services and applications. In this role you’ll lead end-to-end UX and UI design on medium-to-large pieces of work, and support the Lead UX/UI Designer to strengthen UX design practice across the Ministry.

You’ll take a human-centred approach—connecting the dots between users, business groups, products and services—and work closely with developers, business analysts, product owners and business teams to shape solutions that are usable, intuitive and accessible.

You’ll help us build better ways of involving the sector earlier and more consistently, so our design decisions reflect real needs and context.

Salary range: $100,296 - $121,490 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

You’re an experienced UX/UI design practitioner who can lead design work independently, bring others along the journey, and communicate clearly with technical and non-technical stakeholders. You’re comfortable balancing delivery with discovery, and you use evidence and feedback to continuously improve outcomes.

• Experience working in a complex organisation and building relationships and partnerships to achieve shared outcomes.
• A strong portfolio of professional UX/UI design work demonstrating end-to-end thinking and quality execution.
• Proven experience with the New Zealand Government Web Accessibility and Usability Standards.
• Experience applying user-centred design (UCD) and interaction design methods, including workshops, interviews, surveys, and usability testing.
• Experience creating and validating wireframes, mock-ups and interactive prototypes, and translating designs into clear guidance for delivery teams.

You will also offer:

• A track record of bringing people together and leading, coaching and mentoring others to achieve outcomes.
• The ability to interpret quantitative and qualitative feedback, and use insights to identify trends, risks and opportunities.
• Strong planning, organisational and time management skills; ability to manage multiple priorities and remain calm under pressure.
• Ability to improve inefficient processes and work effectively with ambiguity.
• Working knowledge of design systems and prototyping tools (e.g., Figma).
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

We work in a hybrid work environment, with modern office space provided in central Wellington and the option for flexible hybrid working. We offer access to Microsoft 365, Jira/Atlassian tools and have implemented Microsoft co-pilot. You’ll be joining a supportive Analysis & Design Practice team that provides coaching, mentoring and professional development.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Te Pou Kōrero | Digital and Data

Te Pou Kōrero | Digital and Data sets the digital and data direction that enables modern, efficient and seamless experience for those interacting with education services. The Group is accountable for the digital and data strategies and enabling capability plans, as well as maintaining the products and services.

The Group provides overall leadership for development and implementation of integrated education and digital and data solutions working closely with other parts of the education sector and Ministry, enabled by a strong evaluation and evidence base.

The Group has both internal and external customers – with a strong focus on innovation by exploring new technologies and overseeing research, testing and prototyping activities.

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 Megan Williams, Practice Manager, Analysis & Design at megan.williams5@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Sunday, 17 May 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.