Senior Artificial Intelligence Engineer

New Zealand Qualifications Authority; Wellington; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) in Wellington Central seeks three Senior Artificial Intelligence Engineers to join a high-calibre team delivering practical AI solutions for Aotearoa’s education system. You will work on Generative AI, large language models, NLP, predictive analytics and intelligent automation to create real value for learners and providers.

Applicants must bring hands-on AI engineering experience with Generative AI, strong Python/SQL skills, and a Master’s degree (PhD

Qualifications

• Extensive hands-on AI engineering experience, including Generative AI and large language models.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development and deployment of AI solutions that deliver value in education.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement safe, ethical AI in production.

Skills

Generative AI

LLMs

Python

SQL

Version control

CI/CD

Production deployment

Responsible AI

Privacy & security

Governance

Team collaboration

Education

Master's degree or higher in AI/CS/DS/Statistics/Applied Mathematics

PhD (highly regarded)

Tools

Python

SQL

Job description

New Zealand Qualifications Authority – Wellington Central, North Island

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 New Zealand'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.

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.

He āhei āu | 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.
• 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 September 2027

Applications close 5.00pm 22 September 2026.

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.