Senior Analyst Research & Evaluation
Ministry of Social DevelopmentJobsCloseBy Editorial Insights
MSD is recruiting a Senior Analyst in Research and Evaluation for the Community Insights team in Wellington, secondment to 31 May 2027. You will apply research and quantitative analysis to measure programme impact, strengthen outcomes monitoring and support evidence-based policy design, including opportunities from Stats NZ IDI. You’ll mentor mixed-methods analysts and build capability. Requirements include a relevant tertiary qualification in Economics, Social Sciences, Psychology or Statistics, strong SQL and tools such as Power BI, R or SAS, and experience with administrative data; plus strategic thinking and clear written and verbal communication. Apply online with a tailored cover letter addressing the responsibilities, highlight te Ao Māori perspectives and stakeholder collaboration; closes 23 August 2026. Internal MSD applicants via myHR.
- Wellington based
- Secondment/Fixed term until 31 May 2027
This is an exciting opportunity to use research, evaluation and quantitative analysis skills to make a real difference for New Zealanders. You'll work on meaningful projects that help shape frontline services, influence decision-making, and provide insights into what works best for the people and communities we support.
About the role | Mō te tūnga
As a Senior Analyst - Research and Evaluation in our Community Insights team, you will develop and implement work to better measure and evidence the impact of MSD’s programmes delivered by community service providers. You will contribute to improved monitoring of outcomes and support evidence-based policy design, including opportunities from Stats NZ’s Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI).
Working closely with colleagues across the Ministry, you will build strong relationships to support a focus on evidence-based decision-making.
As a senior member of a team of mixed methods specialists, you will provide guidance and mentoring to analysts, supporting their development and helping build research and evaluation capability across the Ministry. This is a fixed term role to cover a period of parental leave.
What you bring | Ōu pūmanawatanga
To be successful in this role, you will bring:
- A relevant tertiary qualification in Economics, Social Sciences, Psychology, Statistics, or a related discipline, along with experience in research, evaluation and analytical methodologies.
- Strong quantitative and technical skills, including exposure to SQL, Power BI, R or SAS.
- Experience working with administrative data, operational reporting systems or other complex datasets, with the ability to identify trends, investigate issues and draw sound conclusions.
- The ability to think strategically and translate complex information into clear recommendations to change and improve processes.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear, accurate and concise reports, briefings and other written outputs for a range of audiences.
- Experience leading pieces of work, managing competing priorities and delivering high-quality outputs within agreed timeframes.
- The ability to mentor and support less experienced analysts, share technical knowledge and contribute to building capability across the team.
- Strong relationship management skills, with the ability to build effective partnerships and work collaboratively with a range of internal and external stakeholders.
- Familiarity with kaupapa Māori research methods and the ability to incorporate a te Ao Māori perspective in research.
- Knowledge of te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) as it applies in the public sector.
- A strong customer focus, good business acumen, and a commitment to creating an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued and respected.
You'll join a collaborative team, build relationships across the social sector, and have opportunities to mentor others while continuing to grow your own expertise. Apply now!
Position Description | He Whakaahuatanga Tūnga
Salary | Utu-ā-tau: $103,815.00 - $125,958.00
Applications close | Ka kati ngā tono hei te: Sunday 23 August, 2026.
About us | Mō mātou
The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) 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 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.
How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono
Before you submit your application, please take a moment to review our guidance to understand how AI can best support your application. Candidate Guidance - Responsible AI use in recruitment
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. Please highlight how your skills and experience relate to the key responsibilities listed in the position description and job advertisement.
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.
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. You can find out more about our values here.
If you have any support or accessibility requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.