Data Scientist

Government Communications Security Bureau NZ; Wellington; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 128,000; Full time

Job summary

Government Communications Security Bureau NZ in Wellington is seeking a Data Scientist to advance AI capabilities across data pipelines and business systems. You will engineer AI solutions that deliver real-world value for national security and drive intelligence outcomes, while staying current with AI/ML advances and supporting responsible data practices.

As a subject-matter expert, you will mentor staff and uplift the community's data capabilities, collaborating with stakeholders to uncover

Qualifications

• 3+ years in Data Science, Analytics, or Engineering with a technical degree.
• Hands-on experience applying AI/ML to real-world problems.
• Ability to turn complex data into intuitive insights for decision makers.

Responsibilities

• Develop AI capabilities and integrate them into data pipelines and business systems.
• Engineer practical AI solutions that deliver real-world intelligence.
• Mentor colleagues and uplift data practices across the organization.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to uncover opportunities and maximize impact.

Skills

Data science

AI/ML applications

Storytelling with data

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Math/Stats

Job description

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Government Communications Security Bureau NZ – Wellington, North Island

Join our diverse and talented people and work at the heart of national security, providing essential intelligence to the NZ government to protect New Zealand and its people.

Are you a forward-thinking data expert passionate about the frontier of artificial intelligence? We are looking for a high-energy Data Scientist to help us leverage AI for business advantage and to drive intelligence outcomes.

You will be at the heart of developing modern AI capabilities that integrate seamlessly into data pipelines and other business systems across the NZIC both in support of the mission and wider enterprise.

We need someone who maintains up-to-date subject matter expertise in the latest AI models and techniques to ensure our capabilities remain cutting-edge. You will also contribute to frameworks that support the responsible use of data and the wider adoption of AI across the community.

This isn't just about analysing data; it’s about engineering AI solutions that deliver real-world value from intelligence. You will dive deep into our unique datasets, collaborate with key stakeholders to uncover hidden opportunities, and engineer innovative, practical solutions that maximize our operational effect.

Beyond the technical delivery, you will serve as a subject matter expert and mentor. You will be responsible for uplifting the community’s understanding of data practices and guiding the next generation of technical staff through hands‑on implementation and professional mentorship.

Ko wai koe – about you

We are looking for a curious, proactive specialist who is comfortable "in the weeds" of technical data but never loses sight of the big picture. You are someone who finds a path through ambiguity and thrives on turning obscure constraints into elegant solutions.

Bring along your:

• 3+ years of experience in Data Science, Analytics, or Engineering, with a tertiary degree in a technical field (CS, Math, Stats, or similar).
• Practical experience applying AI/ML solutions to real world problems.
• Advanced proficiency in data science and the ability to turn complex data into intuitive stories to deliver valued insights to support mission and business outcomes. .
• A disciplined approach to project delivery—you can define a requirement, prioritise it, and execute it without losing sight of the big picture.
• A natural team player who thrives on sharing knowledge, building strong relationships, and lifting the technical capability of everyone around them.
• The ability to dive into diverse, sensitive datasets and extract actionable insights where others see only noise.

Ready to build the future of intelligence? If you have the energy to drive change and the skills to back it up, we want you on our team!

The expected appointing range for this position is $120,359 – $128,383 (depending on skills and experience).

Before you apply

Working within our unique environment means we have to ensure you're eligible for employment.

You must:

• Have been a New Zealand Citizen for at least 10 years

OR

Hold a current NZ Residency Class Visa and ideally have been a citizen of the UK, USA, Canada or Australia for at least 10 years

• Be eligible to obtain a Top Secret Special (TSS) security clearance
  • Ordinarily, this means you'll have a 15 year checkable background in countries NZSIS Vetting can make meaningful and reliable checks.

Still unsure? Use this online tool to self-check your eligibility for a TSS security clearance:http://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/eligibility-tool

The NZIC treats all applications for employment in the strictest confidence and we expect that you maintain a similar level of confidentiality during the recruitment process and throughout your career.

We'll provide you with information and tips throughout the recruitment process, but in the meantime check out some of our Security FAQs here The security clearance process | Beyond Ordinary Careers

You can also learn more about our work and understand our areas of focus by readingNew Zealand's Security Threat Environment | New Zealand Security Intelligence Service

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