Senior Advisor - Wellington
Job Description
Join the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) / Te Amorangi Mātauranga Matua
Be part of a high-trust organisation where your contribution will help deliver real results
Flexible working
Wellington CBD location
Remuneration from $93-$109k, plus 3% Kiwisaver employer contributions
We're looking for an energetic, savvy Senior Advisor to join us in this full-time role in the Ministerial Work Programme team and contribute to the design and implementation of a new tertiary research fund. With relevant experience of the Aotearoa New Zealand research sector, you'll have strengths in implementation, relationship management, writing and analysis, and the ability to quickly develop technical expertise.
The government has recently announced that the TEC's second largest fund, the $315 million a year Performance-Based Research Fund (PBRF), is being replaced by a new Tertiary Research Excellence Fund (TREF). Implementing the TREF will transform the way tertiary education research capability funding is invested and requires a significant new TEC work programme over the next few years.
This role is a great opportunity to grow your skills and experience, interact with a wide range of stakeholders across the research sector, and help support New Zealand's research capability
He angitūtanga: What will you be doing?
You'll contribute to this work programme by:
Providing your expertise, analysis, and advice to support the operational design and implementation of the TREF.
Contributing to the development of technical/operational policy and process guidance documents.
Establishing close working relationships with a variety of staff across TEC, at other government agencies such as MoE and MBIE.
Working with research offices, technical staff, and senior leaders at a range of tertiary providers.
He kōrero mōu: What will you bring to the role?
Proven ability to work cooperatively and collaboratively in a cross-team and cross-agency environment.
Ability to quickly develop subject matter expertise.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills including experience with policy, operational policy and technical report writing.
Relevant tertiary education and research sector experience.
The ability to work confidently with senior academic leaders and research professionals.
Experience with government processes and the day-to-day administration of government policy.
Understanding of the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and of kaupapa and Mātauranga Māori.
Well organised, thorough and conscientious, with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
What will you get in return?
A supportive, collaborative team environment and an inclusive organisational culture.
Stimulating, varied work and the opportunity to gain new experience and develop new skills.
Three TEC days of additional leave between Christmas and New Year.
The TEC offers a range of benefits including flexible working, a wellness programme, and the ability to purchase extra leave.
Recruitment salary is $93,327-$109,797, depending on your skills and experience, plus 3% KiwiSaver employer contributions.
Me pēhea te tuku tono: How to Apply
Sound like a good fit? We'd love to hear from you. Please apply now with your tailored cover letter and CV.
For more information, refer to the attached job description. Applications close 5:00pm, Sunday 26 October 2025. For enquiries only, contact hr@tec.govt.nz
Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in Aotearoa New Zealand at the time of application.
Before confirming any offer of employment, the TEC will undertake pre-employment checks including criminal conviction history and reference checks.
The TEC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We look forward to your application.
