Senior Data Scientist

• Work in a dynamic environment and play a key role in delivering transformational change
• Apply appropriate analytical techniques to the preparation, development and testing of algorithms and network analytics capability in a timely fashion.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of monitoring processes to assess the effectiveness and performance of analytics interventions.
• Proactively engage with Joint Targeting and Analytics team members and stakeholders to assess risk identification including the development of viable recommendations for data science projects.
• Contribute to the management of existing models and further continuous improvement.
• Permanent opportunity – Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch
• Salary range: $118,390 -$143,639

The Our Future Services programme will deliver a more cost-effective immigration system that is more productive, more effective at managing immigration risk, and provides a better experience for our customers and staff.

The programme will be delivered through multiple workstreams working in parallel, with each workstream implementing key initiatives with set milestone dates.

You will be part of the Risk Analytics and Data Science (RADS) team within Immigration New Zealand. As a Senior Data Scientist, you will play a key role in the Enabling Foundations Workstream and will report to the Manager, RADS.

You will be responsible for developing and deploying analytics models and network analytics capability and supporting the implementation of the Risk Analytics Platform and connection to ADEPT, and ongoing monitoring/tuning of model performance. You will also be required to support the business-as-usual activities of the RADS on an as needed basis. A willingness to step in and assist with other data related work on an as needed basis.

Skills and Experience Required

• Comprehensive statistical and analytical knowledge and the ability to apply this to solve problems.
• A demonstrated experience in the development of network analytics capability in the identification of risk.
• A demonstrable competency in the use of SQL, Python and R.
• Contributes to the end-to-end data science lifecycle, from data collection and cleaning to model development and maintenance.
• Experience in building safe and effective operational models, in line with the Algorithm Charter for Aotearoa New Zealand and other regulations and frameworks as appropriate or the ability to quickly acquire this knowledge.
• An understanding of relevant data science processes, systems, and methodologies to the identification of risk.
• Proven ability to develop trust, credibility, and effective working relationships with fellow team members.
• Personal motivation to achieve quality results which reflect attention to detail, personal discipline and adherence to policy and process.

Qualifications

• Post graduate qualification, preferably in statistics, operations research, econometrics, or a similar discipline.
• The ability to gain and maintain a national security clearance as required.

Must be a New Zealand citizen or hold a Permanent resident visa.

MBIE's goal is to create a resilient and high-performing economy that delivers real and ongoing quality of life for all New Zealanders.

We do this by working with others to create an environment that supports businesses to be more productive and internationally competitive, enables all New Zealanders to participate in the economy through improved job opportunities and by working to ensure quality housing is more affordable.

People are at the heart of our mahi, our way of working is guided by our values which shape our behaviours.

• Mahi Tahi – Better Together
• Māia– Bold and brave
• Pae Kahurangi – Build our Future
• Pono Me Te Tika – Own It

Our aspirations are echoed in our Māori identity – Hīkina Whakatutuki – which broadly means 'lifting to make successful'.

MBIE recognises the partnership founded under TeTiritio Waitangi between Māori and the Crown and is committed to giving effect to TeTiritio Waitangi. We will do this through enduring, meaningful and effective partnerships with iwi, Māori, other Māori groups/organisations and the Crown, as this is critical to enable economic and social development, both for Māori and for wider Aotearoa New Zealand. We are committed to continuing to partner with iwi in order to find new sustainable solutions to address long standing systemic and cross-cutting issues facing Māori and wider Aotearoa New Zealand and we are also committed to identifying opportunities for iwi to lead and creating an enabling environment for iwi to leverage these opportunities.

Please note that MBIE is currently undergoing a set of significant changes which have resulted in a number of our kaimahi being considered affected. As per our usual policy, any staff affected by change are considered first for vacancies if appropriate. This may result in delays to recruitment for non-affected staff, or in recruitment being stopped prior to shortlisting or interview stage.

Click here to view a position description. All applications must be submitted via our online process and include a Cover Letter and CV outlining your interest and suitability for the role.

Email Nik Sharma at nikhil.sharma@mbie.govt.nz quoting ref MBIE/16899 if you have any further questions.

Applications close on Friday, 28 March 2025