Psychologist

Ministry of Education New Zealand; Palmerston North; On-site; NZD 85,000 - 119,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

KiwiSaver

Job summary

Ministry of Education New Zealand is seeking a Psychologist in Palmerston North to contribute to the Learning Support team. You will identify factors impacting learning and wellbeing, collaborate with families and schools, and lead specialist assessments to inform interventions.

The role requires NZ-registered psychologist with a practising certificate and a Masters-level qualification in Educational or Clinical Psychology, plus strong communication and cultural competencies.

Qualifications

• Masters-level qualification in Educational or Clinical Psychology.
• NZ Psychologist Board registration.
• Current Practising Certificate.

Responsibilities

• Identify patterns influencing learning, wellbeing and behaviour.
• Work with the child, family, and educators to enhance understanding.
• Provide in-depth specialist assessment and analysis for interventions.
• Facilitate access to wider services and support.
• Support schools, teachers and families and build capacity to support learning.
• Enhance inclusive practices in schools and other settings.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Cultural awareness

Education

Masters-level qualification in Educational Psychology or Clinical Psychology

NZ Psychologist Board registration

Practising certificate

Job description

Help shape the future of Education

excellent outcomes

• Palmerston North Office

Date advertised: 14 Aug 2026

Job Type: Permanent

Location:

Palmerston North, NZ

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

• Palmerston North Office

As a Psychologist, you will play a critical role in our region's Learning Support team by:

• Identifying patterns or contributing factors that may be influencing learning, wellbeing and behaviour.
• Working collaboratively with a team around the child, including educators, parents, caregivers and whānau, to enhance understanding about the child and their behaviours.
• Providing appropriate in-depth specialist assessment and analysis for collaboratively planned, evidence-informed interventions.
• Facilitating access to wider services and support, in response to individual needs.
• Providing professional support and guidance to schools, teachers and families and building the capacity of those who are best placed to support the learning of children and young people.
• Enhancing inclusive practices in schools and other educational settings.

Salary range: $85,416 - $119,450 per annum plus KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.

For more details about the role, you can view the Job Description here.

About you | Mōhou ake

To be successful you will need:

• A Masters-level tertiary qualification, Post-graduate Diploma in Educational Psychology or Clinical Psychology (or equivalent), New Zealand Psychologist Board registration, and a current Practicing Certificate.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and an ability to work effectively with children, young people and their families and teachers across a diverse range of settings.
• The ability to develop and interact effectively with people of other cultures focusing or relationship and recognising their identity, language and culture as a source of strength.
• To demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori.
• A full current driver's licence is essential.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Learning Support is a critical part of the Ministry of Education. We are charged with leading the education sector in ensuring that children and young people with additional learning needs are supported to achieve their full potential through education.

Our Learning Support specialists work closely with families, whānau, caregivers, schools and early childhood educators in English and Māori medium settings and other agencies to help maximize learning outcomes and promote social inclusion.

The Manawatū Learning support team are a strong, cohesive and collaborative team working in progressive and innovative ways. If you have always wanted to work in a transdisciplinary and highly supportive team environment, then this role would be the one for you.

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

For further information, please contact Peggy Warren Service Manager at [e-mail]

Applications close Midnight – Friday 11 September 2026.

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.