Senior Design Analyst - Measuring the Modern Economy (MME) and Macro Economics

At Stats NZ, our analysts work on problems that shape how Aotearoa understands itself — the people, the economy, and the systems that support our daily lives. Our work offers a rare opportunity to contribute to work with genuine national (and international) impact while building deep analytical expertise.

We have multiple 1.5 to 2 year fixed-term opportunities available across our Measuring a Modern Economy (MME) programme and Macroeconomic Statistical Delivery Branch forSenior Data Analysts in Pōneke (Wellington) and Ōtautahi (Christchurch).

The MME programme will modernise New Zealand's suite of economic statistics by improving processes, methods, and data sources, while implementing updated international standards. This work will ensure our statistics remain aligned, relevant, and fit for purpose, providing the insights needed to support smarter decisions and a stronger economy.

The Macroeconomic Statistical Delivery Branch is responsible for delivering statistics on the New Zealand economy, including measures of economic growth, prices, international trade, government finances, business activity, and the country's financial position. The branch brings together statistical, economic, methodological, and operational expertise to collect, process, analyse, and publish high-quality data that supports government decision-making, economic policy, business planning, and public understanding of the economy.

In these roles, you’ll lead key pieces of work that will modernise the frameworks, methods, and insights underpinning New Zealand’s most important economic statistics. The work you do will directly inform government decisions, business planning, and the services communities rely on.

About the roles \| Mō te tūnga

As a Senior Data Analyst, you’ll lead complex, forward-looking analytical work that improves how data is integrated, produced, and used. This includes designing more efficient approaches, embedding automation and AI, and strengthening how our systems operate over time.

You’ll work at the front end of analysis — applying strong conceptual thinking to shape how data is structured, interpreted, and produced. You’ll operate in an agile environment, adapting to evolving priorities while maintaining a clear focus on quality and outcomes.

Alongside delivery, you’ll play a key role in lifting capability — coaching others, sharing expertise, and helping embed consistent, high-quality ways of working across the team.

As a Senior Data Analyst, you will:

• Own and deliver complex analytical and statistical work end-to-end, from design through to release and continuous improvement
• Lead development of data, products, and processes — improving how analysis is done and maintained over time
• Analyse and integrate data across multiple sources to generate insights and strengthen production approaches
• Design and embed scalable, efficient ways of working that improve quality, consistency, and long-term capability
• Apply advanced judgement to interpret data, resolve complex issues, and operate confidently in ambiguity
• Build trusted relationships, provide credible advice, and coach others to lift capability and embed best practice

Location: Wellington or Christchurch (or willingness to relocate)

Salary: $97,270–$114,436

What you will bring \| Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu

• Relevant qualifications or experience in economics, finance, statistics, or a related field
• Proven experience delivering complex analytical or statistical work end-to-end with a high degree of autonomy
• Strong analytical capability, with confidence working across complex datasets and generating meaningful insights
• Experience improving methods, processes, or systems — designing more efficient or scalable ways of working
• Sound judgement and the ability to operate effectively in complex, ambiguous environments
• Strong conceptual thinking — able to step back and shape how work is designed, not just delivered
• Experience coaching or mentoring others, supporting capability uplift and consistent ways of working

What’s in it for you? \| Ngā hua ka riro ki a koe

These are roles that will deepen your technical expertise and you’ll be joining an environment that values both quality and learning.

You’ll take part in a three-month structured onboarding programme alongside a cohort of new starters — giving you a strong foundation and a network of support to draw on. Beyond this, you’ll be part of an active community of practice that supports ongoing development and continuous improvement.

There is also clear visibility of how you can grow. Our capability framework provides a transparent view of what good looks like at each level — helping you build your career with purpose and direction.

About us \| Mō mātou

Stats NZ plays a central role in New Zealand’s data system — setting expectations for quality, integrity, and stewardship, and influencing how data is used and trusted across sectors.

Our Senior Data Analyst roles build a distinctive mix of technical expertise, analytical thinking, and professional capability — giving you a strong platform for wherever your career takes you next.

How to apply \| Me pēhea te tuku tono

Click Apply Now to submit your application. Please include a cover letter that outlines your motivation for the role and reasons for wanting to be part of the Stats team, and what skills and experience you will bring to this role.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we aim to move quickly to interviews.

If you need adjustments or support during the process, please let us know — we’re committed to making the process accessible for everyone.

For questions, contact Amber Hawthorn — [email protected]

Note: We use “Senior Data Analyst” externally. Internally, roles may be titled Senior Design Analyst or Senior Insights Analyst depending on role focus.

Reference # 20114

Posted on 14 Sep 2026

Closes on 28 Sep 2026 23:55

Location(s) Christchurch, Wellington

Expertise Data Insights, Analysis and Customer Reporting

Job level(s) 4-6 years experience, 7+ years experience

Work type(s) Fixed term full-time