Senior Artificial Intelligence Engineer

NZ Qualifications Authority; Wellington; Hybrid; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

NZ Qualifications Authority (NZQA) is seeking 3 Senior Artificial Intelligence Engineers to advance practical and responsible AI in education across Aotearoa New Zealand. Join a high‑calibre team to design, build, test and deploy AI solutions, including Generative AI, NLP, computer vision and automation, with a focus on safe, ethical use.

Full‑time, fixed‑term until 30 September 2027; applications close 22 September 2026.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in AI engineering with Generative AI and large language models.
• Strong software engineering skills in Python, SQL, version control and CI/CD practices.
• Experience developing, deploying and maintaining AI solutions in production environments.
• Knowledge of responsible AI practices, model evaluation, privacy, security and governance.
• A Master's degree or higher in AI, Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, Applied Mathematics or related field.
• A PhD is highly regarded.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, test and deploy AI solutions that create value for learners and educators.
• Work on Generative AI, large language models, NLP, predictive analytics, computer vision and intelligent automation.
• Collaborate with experienced AI, data and technology specialists.
• Contribute to the safe, ethical and responsible use of AI in the public sector.

Job description

Senior Artificial Intelligence Engineer (x3)

Help shape the future of AI in education. NZQA is seeking 3 Senior Artificial Intelligence Engineers to join an established, high‑calibre team delivering practical and responsible AI solutions for Aotearoa NewZealand's education system. This is an exciting opportunity to work on meaningful, real world AI initiatives, including Generative AI, large language models, natural language processing, predictive analytics, computer vision and intelligent automation. You'll help design, build, test and deploy AI solutions that create value for learners, education providers and NZQA. Whakatairangatia ngā kete o te mātauranga ki te ao mārama!E te tai whakarunga, e te tai whakararo, nau piki mai, nau kake mai ki te Mana Tohu Mātauranga o Aotearoa.May the baskets of knowledge (education) be brought into the world of light. We welcome one and all to join us at the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.

What you'll bring to the role

• Significant hands‑on experience in AI engineering, including Generative AI and large language models.
• Strong software engineering skills, including Python, SQL, version control and CI/CD practices.
• Experience developing, deploying and maintaining AI solutions in production environments.
• Knowledge of responsible AI practices, model evaluation, privacy, security and governance.
• A relevant Master's degree or higher in AI, Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, Applied Mathematics or a related quantitative field.
• A PhD is highly regarded.

Why join us?

• Be part of a team already delivering practical AI solutions.
• Work on innovative projects that have a meaningful impact on education across New Zealand.
• Collaborate with experienced AI, data and technology specialists.
• Contribute to the safe, ethical and responsible use of AI in the public sector.

Full‑time, fixed‑term until 30 September2027.

Applications close 5.00pm 22 September 2026.

If you would like to discuss further, please contact Vipin Kumar [e-mail]

Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

NZQA is committed to developing a diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace.

We provide equal employment opportunities and welcome applications from everyone who can meet the requirements of the role.