Data Scientist

New Zealand Government; Wellington; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 128,000; Full time

Job summary

New Zealand Government seeks a forward-thinking Data Scientist to help leverage AI for business advantage and to drive intelligence outcomes, protecting New Zealand and its people. You will develop AI capabilities that integrate into data pipelines and systems across the NZIC, while staying at the forefront of AI models and responsible data use.

You will mentor others, uplift data practices, and translate complex data into actionable insights to support mission and enterprise goals.

Qualifications

• 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.

Responsibilities

• Develop AI capabilities that integrate into data pipelines and business systems across the NZIC.
• Maintain up-to-date expertise in AI models and techniques to keep capabilities cutting-edge.
• Mentor staff and uplift data practices across the organisation.

Skills

Data Science

Analytics

Engineering

AI/ML

Storytelling

Education

Tertiary degree in CS/Math/Stats

Tools

Python

SQL

ML frameworks

Job description

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.

Mō te tūranga mahi – about the role

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

• 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

• Have been a New Zealand Citizen for at least 10 years
• ORHold 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 reading New Zealand's Security Threat Environment | New Zealand Security Intelligence Service