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 have an exciting opportunity available for an evaluation professional who is passionate about educational outcomes.
The Principal Evaluator reports to the Manager, Evaluation & Research in the Data & Insights group within Te Pae Aronui.
In this role you will provide leadership and guidance in evaluation design, coordination of evaluation activities, and build evaluation capability across the Ministry to support using high-performing data and evidence to inform decision-making against the Education Priorities.
You will promote the effective use of evidence so that the Ministry, education sector, parents, whānau, and communities can put their efforts in the right place, in the right way, at the right time, to enable learners to succeed.
This is a permanent, full-time role, based in Wellington. Consideration will be given to flexible work arrangements outside of Wellington.
Salary range: $118,371 - $143,760 per annum + 3% KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.
About you | Mōhou ake
We want to hear from you if you are passionate about research and evaluation and want to make a difference for ākonga and whānau.
You will also offer:
- Experience in evaluation and research methodologies, such as survey design and analysis and qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis, including methodologies appropriate to kaupapa Māori and Pacific Island contexts.
- Excellent written and oral communication and engagement skills, including negotiation and facilitation, applied across a range of cultural contexts.
- Experience in Social Investment and Value for Money evaluation and analysis approaches.
- Knowledge and understanding of relevant professional evaluation and research codes and standards and the ethical issues involved in releasing sensitive information to the Public.
- The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake
The Evaluation and Research Team serves a strategic and governance function for Te Tāhuhu o te Mātauranga | the Ministry of Education to guide best practice in evaluative thinking, design, evidence gathering, and synthesis.
The Evaluation & Research Team is part of Te Mahau | Te Pae Aronui | Operations & Integration. Te Pae Aronui connects people, knowledge, services and regulatory processes to help shape an inclusive education system.
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 Claudia Recker, Manager, Evaluation & Research at [email protected]
Applications close Midnight – Sunday, 6 July 2025
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.
