Senior Policy Analyst - Wellington
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
Senior Policy Analyst, Tertiary Equity Access and Participation Team
Permanent, full-time
Wellington-based
If you are interested in shaping policy priorities for New Zealand’s education system, have a passion for ‘big picture’ analysis and advice and are looking for complex, interesting and varied work that develops your career, then this role is for you.
We are looking for an experienced, capable and committed Senior Policy Analyst to join our policy community to lead the development of policy in some high profile, new and challenging areas.
The Tertiary Policy group leads interesting and challenging work programmes aimed at strengthening tertiary education at a systems level to ensure that it is inclusive, responsive, and delivers equitable outcomes for all learner groups. The Ministry’s role in tertiary education policy offers exciting challenges for policy professionals, including advising on the implementation of a new tertiary education strategy and how to give effect to Ministerial priorities across tertiary education portfolios. Our work sits across social and economic policy, and we work closely with other government agencies including TEC, NZQA, MBIE, ENZ, IR, MSD and others.
The Tertiary Equity Access and Participation Team team focuses on improving outcomes for learners across all levels of the tertiary education system. We provide tertiary policy advice to a range of internal and external stakeholders on specific barriers to access, participation and success, and on issues ranging from student financial support to foundation education to Wānanga. Our vision is for a tertiary education system that is inclusive and responsive, with low or no barriers; provides strong foundations and supports for all learners to thrive throughout their lives; and honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi
Salary range: $100,296 - $144,560 per annum + 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
We are looking for committed and experienced Senior Policy Analysts who will be able to hit the ground running and bring passion, energy and analytical ability. We would like to hear from you if you have proven policy experience, and
have excellent knowledge of policy and government processes
have proven ability to develop and lead evidence-based complex and sensitive policy projects or programmes of work
have excellent oral and written communication skills
be able to work autonomously, demonstrate self-motivation and remain calm, focussed and resilient under pressure
have established strong working relationships across key government agencies to ensure effective management of cross-government programmes
excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated a team work approach
strength or enjoyment in developing and mentoring junior staff
demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori
have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) as it applies in the public sector and
The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
In return we can offer you the opportunity to contribute to a high profile, challenging and ambitious agenda for change, a strong focus on the development of our people, and the ability to drive and influence policy direction.
About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake
The role sits within Te Pou Kaupapahere, the Ministry’s Policy Group. We are a group with a strong policy culture that works on issues affecting a huge system that directly impacts the lives of all New Zealanders.
Te Pou Kaupapahere works alongside our colleagues in other parts of the Ministry, other central education agencies and wider government to provide Ministers with policy options to resource and shape the education system. This means delivering whole-of-system, end-to-end policy that covers early learning, schooling, and tertiary including Māori medium, te reo Māori, Pacific and learning support.
Our group provides policy support for all parts of the Ministry, including their connections with iwi, hapū, hapori and Māori peak bodies, in the development of policy that honours te Tiriti o Waitangi.
We’re proud of the culture in our policy teams. We appreciate and support each other and develop strong relationships that underpin our ability to deliver good work, including holding relationships with all education Ministers.
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 Nicki Ablitt, Senior Policy Manager at Nicki.Ablitt@education.govt.nz
Applications close Midnight – Sunday, 12 April 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
