Senior Data Scientist - Evidence and Effectiveness

 

About us
 
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.

 

 

Senior Data Scientist - Evidence and Effectiveness

 

• Permanent full time role 
• Wellington based 
• Are you passionate about using data to make a difference in people’s lives?

 

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Senior Data Scientist to join our multi-disciplinary Employment Insights team.

 

Te āhua o te tūranga / About the role

In this role, you will combine the analytical tools of data science with an applied understanding of the social sciences.  You'll be part of a dedicated team of highly experienced mixed methods specialists who share your passion for making a meaningful impact across Aotearoa.

 

You’ll be working at the forefront of labour market research, understanding Aotearoa’s social landscape, and translating data driven insights into actionable insights that support better outcomes for New Zealand. 

 

You’ll have the opportunity to apply your statistical and modelling expertise to improve employment outcomes for New Zealanders, through evaluation of our employment initiatives, so we know what works for who, and how MSD optimises its employment programme investment.

 

Your work will involve using advanced analytical techniques, utilising large in-house survey/administrative datasets or the Statistics New Zealand’s Integrated Data Infrastructure, exploring innovative new approaches or technologies, and developing robust performance evaluation. 

 

You’ll build strong relationships across MSD and will be collaborating closely with our policy and employment delivery teams, providing well-informed advice supported by evidence.

 

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako / Skills and experience

To be successful in the role you’ll need:

 

• Experience in  applying a mix of  quantitative techniques and methods to evaluate outcomes and impact (for example propensity score matching, predictive modelling) and an understanding of how they complement other mixed method techniques, like qualitative ones, for richer evaluative insights. 
• Knowledge of evaluation frameworks and design, like Theory of Change, and how to apply data analytics and to enable good judgements on what works or is value for moneyExpertise in SQL, R, Python, and data visualisation tools (e.g. Power BI), with experience using large survey/administrative datasets and the Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI); and automation of analytical production.
• A good understanding of human capital framework, economic and labour market dynamics, aligning initiatives with workforce trends and providing actionable, data-driven recommendations for improvements.
• Strong ability to interpret complex data, identify patterns, visualise findings effectively, and present clear, actionable insights to diverse audiences.

 

Important information

 

• This is a full-time role that requires a strong office presence. While some flexibility may be available, we are looking for someone who will be actively engaged on-site as part of the team.
• As part of the recruitment process, candidates will undergo a pre-technical test, a panel interview, and a final interview with the General Manager.
   

Position Description

Senior Data Scientist Position Description

Salary range: $118,401.00 - $143,797.00

 

 

 

 

 

How to apply

 

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: Sunday 23rd February, 2025. Please note that shortlisting may begin as applications are received.

 

 

 

 

 

Joining us

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.

 

MSD has a COVID-19 vaccination policy that encourages, but does not require, employees to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and its variants, unless the role is identified as requiring vaccination at the time.