Senior Research Economist

Scientific & Technical Recruitment; Wellington; On-site; NZD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A research organization in New Zealand is seeking a Senior Research Economist to lead impactful research on housing affordability. You will manage projects, collaborate with industry and government partners, and translate data into insights that shape policy. The ideal candidate has significant experience in economic analysis and holds a postgraduate qualification in economics. This role offers competitive benefits and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Fully funded medical insurance

Income protection insurance

Access to counselling services

Subsidised café

Recreational facilities

Qualifications

• Significant experience in economic analysis and insight generation.
• Experience managing complex projects engaging stakeholders.
• A strong interest in the built environment or construction economics is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on housing affordability.
• Translate complex data into practical insights.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders including government and finance.

Skills

Economic analysis

Cost-benefit analysis

Financial modelling

Stakeholder engagement

Communication of economic data

Education

Postgraduate qualification in a quantitative discipline

Job description

Overview

Lead Economic Insight for NZ's Built Environment - Make Research Matter

At Scitex, in partnership with BRANZ, we’re seeking a Senior Research Economist to lead strategic, high-impact work focused on housing affordability and the economics of the built environment. This is an opportunity for an experienced economist to apply skills in a research organisation that informs policy, supports industry, and improves lives through science-led insights.

You’ll join the Sector Insights team—a collaborative, cross-functional group that includes economists, behavioural scientists, and data experts—at BRANZ’s national headquarters in Porirua. Together, you’ll shape research that makes a measurable difference across the building and construction sector in New Zealand.

About the Role

The Senior Research Economist advances BRANZ’s strategy to deliver housing that is more affordable to build, maintain, and live in. You’ll lead research projects, translate complex data into practical insights, and collaborate with key government, finance, and industry stakeholders. You’ll also have opportunities to contribute to thought leadership, participate in strategic planning, and mentor others within the team.

To succeed in this role, you’ll bring:

• Significant experience in economic analysis and insight generation, ideally with exposure to cost-benefit analysis, financial modelling, and research that informs public or sector policy.
• A postgraduate qualification in a quantitative discipline, preferably economics.
• Experience managing complex projects that engage stakeholders across industry, government, and research.
• An ability to translate economic data into meaningful, understandable advice that influences strategic direction.
• Experience in or a strong interest in the built environment or construction economics is an advantage.

Why BRANZ?

BRANZ is New Zealand’s trusted independent voice in building science. Their work spans testing, quality assurance, and applied research with a direct and positive impact on people’s lives. From simulating earthquakes and weather conditions to studying the economics of housing and sustainability, their work environment is unique. You’ll be working in a values-led, science-based organisation with a clear purpose.

BRANZ is located in Judgeford, a 30-minute drive from Wellington city, and 5 minutes from the Transmission Gully Pāuatahanui interchange. The office includes a subsidised café, recreational facilities, showers, storage lockers, a large specialist library, free EV charging stations, and convenient parking.

BRANZ provides fully funded Southern Cross medical insurance, income protection insurance, and access to free counselling services.

The organisation is underpinned by a culture of collaboration. All staff participate in training to support collaborative culture.

How to apply

Click APPLY NOW or call Belinda McKenzie at Scitex Recruitment on 09 200 3121 for a confidential discussion.

To apply for this vacancy, you MUST be a New Zealand citizen or resident, or have the right to work in New Zealand and hold a valid visa.

Scitex specialises in permanent, contract and temporary recruitment – and has done so since 1987. We are here to engineer better Mondays. We love connecting talented people with great work opportunities where you can thrive and make a meaningful difference. Apply For Job