Data Science, Analytics and Research Graduates - Emerging Professionals Programme

• Data science, analytics and research graduate opportunities 

• Designed for those who are early in career     

• Receive mentoring and training from industry-leading professionals   

• Permanent role based in Auckland or Wellington starting February 2026 

  
Our Emerging Professionals Programme | Te Reanga Pito Mata runs over 24 months with three 8-month rotations within the selected area of specialisation and brings some of the top emerging talent from across the motu together with the best people from NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA). Through the work that you do, you'll get the chance to improve and enhance the transport network and systems across Aotearoa.

On offer is a unique opportunity for you to go places you never expected within our organisation to help deliver our customer promise – a land transport system connecting people, products, and places for a thriving Aotearoa.  

We are seeking to appoint at a salary of $61,230 commensurate to skills and experience. 

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity – Data Science, Analytics, Statistics & Research 

You will rotate through one or two business groups within the organisation, gaining exposure to a wide range of data-driven work. Each rotation will provide unique learning opportunities, allowing you to develop diverse skills and broaden your professional experience. 

Our Commercial and Corporate group provide specialist support and advice to NZTA and the land transport sector, enabling NZTA to run efficiently and effectively. This group enables NZTA to go further and faster, safely.  As part of this, you could rotate through Procurement and Organisational Performance, gaining exposure to critical functions that support the organisation to deliver on its strategic priorities and operations. . 
 

Our System Leadership group has a focus on setting direction and priorities for NZTA through strategy, policy, planning, evidence, and insights.  You will rotate through teams within our Insights and Analytics function, gaining insights into how data is gathered and used to support evidence based decision-making across the organisation.  

Ko koe tēnei | About you 
To succeed in this role, you will bring: 

• A bachelor’s degree or higher in data science, data analytics, statistics, research, psychology or a related field. 

• Have graduated within the last three years 

• A passion for working with data, problem-solving, and deriving insights 

• Strong analytical skills and an eagerness to learn new tools and technologies 

• A commitment to ethical data practices and continuous learning 

• The desire to collaborate and engage with a broad range of people.   

• A desire to learn and gain new skills and knowledge.   

• Natural curiosity around how things are done and how to make things better.   

• A pro-active approach. 

You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori, promoting tikanga and Te Reo Māori in the workplace. You will also have knowledge of, or be willing to learn about, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application in the public sector. 
  

To view a copy of the position description click here. 
 

He aha ngā huanga mōku | What are the benefits for you? 

• Supportive and experienced people leaders who really want to see you succeed   

• Flexibility, including a hybrid home and office working opportunity 

• Growth - access to training, development, and a real opportunity to evolve with the business  

• 5 weeks annual leave + other great benefits  

Ko wai mātou | About us   

At NZTA, it all starts with our people. The organisation's performance and success depends on the people who choose to make this a great place to work and make a difference for Aotearoa. NZTA has a strong future focus, understanding that new technologies and changing customer expectations mean the transport system we know today will not be the one we deliver in ten years’ time.   

 If this sounds like the opportunity for you, submit your CV along with your cover letter detailing your suitability.   

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

For further information, email: careers@nzta.govt.nz

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.