Principal Analyst
Date: 1 Feb 2026
Location: Wellington, NZ
Company: Ministry of Social Development
• Opportunity to lead significant programmes of work
• Contribute to key Government priorities
• Permanent role – Wellington based
Come join our high performing policy branch! We have supportive leaders, a collaborative culture, value work life balance and professional development.
About us | Mō mātou:
The Ministry of Social Development is a people-centred organisation. We’re in communities across the motu, working with partners to help New Zealanders be safe, strong and independent.
We provide social policy and advice to government and assistance, including income, employment and housing support to people of all ages, families, whānau and communities.
As a Te Tiriti o Waitangi partner we are committed to supporting and enabling Māori, whānau, hapū, Iwi and communities to realise their own potential and aspirations.
Our people are as diverse as the communities we serve. We care about the wellbeing and success of our people and provide a supportive and inclusive working environment where people can thrive and be who they are.
About the role | Mō te tūnga:
Are you passionate about making a difference for young New Zealanders? Are you interested in complex policy issues that span the social sector? We’re seeking a motivated Principal Analyst to join us.
Reporting to the Director, Child Wellbeing and Poverty Reduction, you will lead strategic and analytical projects and policy initiatives relating to reducing child poverty and improving child wellbeing and provide mentoring and support for the professional development of less experienced analysts. This role will give you opportunities to work across a varied and stimulating work programme that includes providing strategic advice directly to Ministers on issues impacting the wellbeing of children and young people.
We have worked hard to make our Policy Branch a great place to work. We are proud of the collaboration that occurs across teams and the culture we’ve created. We work with a strong sense of purpose and people focus to deliver high quality policy advice in a fun, supportive environment that values your contribution.
What you bring | Ōu pūmanawatanga:
We're keen to hear from motivated principal analysts with a strong track record in policy advice, particularly in relation to strategic policy. You'll need highly developed analytical and critical thinking ability and sound judgement. Strong quantitative skills and the ability to interpret complex data to inform policy advice are essential. We’re looking for excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to develop clear, compelling narratives for Ministers, stakeholders and the wider public.
We're also looking for great people skills as you'll be working with stakeholders across our organisation and externally. We're looking to hear from people who will fit our collegial, supportive culture, and have the action orientation to shape and lead on policy work. You'll bring leadership ability, with the skills and an interest in coaching and developing others. You’ll have a commitment to Māori and to building competencies and capabilities in Te Tiriti analysis and applying Māori frameworks.
Whether you are an experienced Principal Analyst looking for your next challenge or a Senior Analyst who is ready to step up, if you have a track record of providing quality policy advice we are interested in hearing from you!
Position Description | He Whakaahuatanga Tūnga:
Salary | Utu-ā-tau: $142,874.00 - $177,798.00
How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono:
To apply, click the 'Apply Now' button to upload your CV, cover letter and complete the online application form.
Note: Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key responsibilities listed in the position description.
All applications must be made online. If this is not possible or if you have any queries, please contact us at jobs@msd.govt.nz
Internal MSD Employees – please apply through your myHR portal at work. This will ensure that your myHR employee profile is visible as internal candidate.
Closing date: Wednesday 11th February, 2026.
Joining us | Ko te hono mai:
Joining MSD means being part of a whānau that celebrates the diversity each individual represents. We show manaaki, we care about the wellbeing and success of people and want everyone to thrive, and be who they are in a supportive and inclusive working environment. We work together to make a difference for communities while doing the right thing with integrity. We are a Treaty partner committed to strengthening relationships with Māori, Hapū, Iwi and communities to realise their own potential and aspirations.
If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.
