Data Scientist x 2 - Evidence and Effectiveness

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Two Data Scientist roles at the Ministry of Social Development in Wellington offer a rare chance to apply rigorous quantitative methods to real policy impact within the Community Insights and Housing and Income teams. You’ll undertake advanced evaluations, causal and time-series analyses, work with large datasets including the IDI, support the data warehouse transition, and help plan the Youth Health and Wellbeing Survey. MSD is a Te Tiriti partner committed to diversity and an inclusive workplace. Success hinges on applied statistics or social science research, proficiency in SQL, R or Python, and the ability to translate complex findings into clear, actionable policy insights for non-technical audiences. To apply online, upload your CV and a tailored cover letter that demonstrates how you meet the key responsibilities and how your work would inform policy; closing date 16 February 2026.

Permanent | Full-time | Wellington 

Undertake advanced analytics and evaluations to directly shape MSD’s community support services and improve outcomes for New Zealanders. 

We are looking for two Data Scientists with a strong statistics, social science research or econometrics background to join the Community Insights, and Housing and Income teams. These are rare opportunities to combine rigorous quantitative analysis with real-world policy impact. Your work will directly inform decisions to improve services addressing hardship and adverse life outcomes.  

About us | Mō mātou:
 
The Ministry of Social Development is a people-centred organisation. We’re in communities across the motu, working with partners to help New Zealanders be safe, strong and independent.
 
We provide social policy and advice to government and assistance, including income, employment and housing support to people of all ages, families, whānau and communities.
 
As a Te Tiriti o Waitangi partner we are committed to supporting and enabling Māori, whānau, hapū, Iwi and communities to realise their own potential and aspirations.
 
Our people are as diverse as the communities we serve. We care about the wellbeing and success of our people and provide a supportive and inclusive working environment where people can thrive and be who they are.

About the role | Mō te tūnga:

In these roles – in the Community Insights, and Housing and Income teams - you will apply advanced analytical techniques to evaluate MSD’s programmes and support evidence-based policy design.

Your work will include: 

• Undertaking quantitative evaluations and causal/timeseries analysis to assess programme effectiveness. 
• Working with large datasets including Stats NZ’s Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI).  
• Supporting MSD’s data warehouse transition and streamlining analytical processes to improve efficiency, scalability, and the timely delivery of high-quality insights. 
• Planning and delivery of the Youth Health and Wellbeing Survey (as part of the Community Insights role) 
• Providing analytical support across the both the income and housing workstreams (in the Income and Housing role)  

This role is for someone who thrives on solving real-world problems with rigorous quantitative methods, can communicate technical insights clearly to non-technical audiences.  

You’ll work closely with policy and delivery teams to ensure that evidence informs decisions and programme design. 

You'll be part of a dedicated team of experienced mixed methods specialists who share your passion for making a meaningful impact across Aotearoa.

What you bring | Ōu pūmanawatanga:

To be successful in the role you’ll need: 

• Experience with social sciences research and/or quantitative analysis, particularly applied statistical analysis and modelling, (e.g. propensity score matching, predictive modelling, regression analysis).     
• Expertise in SQL, R, or Python with experience handling large survey or administrative datasets, including the Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI). 
• Strong ability to interpret and communicate complex data, identify patterns, visualise findings effectively, and present clear, actionable insights to diverse audiences. 
• Experience streamlining or automating analytical workflows to improve efficiency, scalability, and the timely delivery of findings. 
• Attention to detail and an understanding of the machinery of government and decision-making process. 
• Experience in survey design and analysis (for the Community Insights role) 

Position Description | He Whakaahuatanga Tūnga:

Data Scientist Position Description

Salary | Utu-ā-tau: $103,846.00 - $125,998.00

How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono:

To apply, click the 'Apply Now' button to upload your CV, cover letter and complete the online application form.  

Note: Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key responsibilities listed in the position description. 

All applications must be made online.  If this is not possible or if you have any queries, please contact us at [email protected]

Internal MSD Employees – please apply through your myHR portal at work.  This will ensure that your myHR employee profile is visible as internal candidate.

Closing date: Monday 16th February, 2026. 

Joining us | Ko te hono mai:

Joining MSD means being part of a whānau that celebrates the diversity each individual represents.  We show manaaki, we care about the wellbeing and success of people and want everyone to thrive, and be who they are in a supportive and inclusive working environment. We work together to make a difference for communities while doing the right thing with integrity. We are a Treaty partner committed to strengthening relationships with Māori, Hapū, Iwi and communities to realise their own potential and aspirations.

If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.