Help shape the future of Education
We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes
Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.
About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga
The Principal Advisor – Engineering will bring their understanding and perspective of the engineering industry to support the Chief Advisor – Engineering & Resilience in the ongoing development of our Seismic Resilience workstreams and in providing technical support to internal property teams.
You will report to the Director of School Design and work within our Property team, and with the Ministry’s Engineering Advisory Group (EAG). The EAG comprises of some of New Zealand’s leading engineers and industry experts and is appointed to provide guidance to the Ministry on a range of engineering matters.
This is a permanent, full-time role with a national focus. While preference will be given to candidates based in Christchurch other locations will be considered for the right candidate.
Salary range: $118,371- $143,760 per annum + 3% kiwi saver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.
For more details about the role, you can view the Job Description here Principal Advisor.
About you | Mōhou ake
You’re an experienced engineer familiar with designing schools in New Zealand and have a good understanding of the range of issues impacting diverse property portfolios. You are an excellent communicator and enjoy interacting and collaborating with different teams and external stakeholders.
You have a positive attitude and are driven to make a meaningful contribution.
You will also offer:
- Bachelor of Engineering with Honours (BE(Hons)) degree, specialising in structural or seismic engineering.
- Chartered professional engineer (CPEng or equivalent).
- Preferably a minimum of 7 years’ New Zealand related professional experience.
- The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
Join the Ministry of Education and be part of a team where you will have great opportunities to expand your engineering knowledge and expertise, while gaining further insights into the varying technical issues that arise in a large and diverse property portfolio.
About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake
The School Property group manages one of the largest property portfolios in Aotearoa New Zealand, composed of over 2,100 primary and secondary state schools and over 8,000 hectares of land with a carrying value of $33.5 billion. Our team is responsible for the portfolio, including school engagement, asset management, capital works delivery, investment planning and portfolio management.
We have a responsibility to invest in property solutions that demonstrate value for money while still delivering the right outcome for our schools and kura. Demand for new or improved school property across the country is high, and the way we meet these needs is to do so more efficiently. We have set financial and timeliness targets for our programme, and we’re looking to improve our planning and delivery, as well as working proactively and collaboratively with schools and the construction sector. This will ensure that our property projects deliver value and are part of an affordable and deliverable programme of works.
As part of the response to the Government’s decisions following the independent Ministerial Inquiry into School Property, the School Property group is now led by a Chief Executive for School Property, who reports directly to the Minister for Education. We have put in place an improvement programme which responds to the Government's school property review recommendations.
Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?
If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.
For further information, please contact Renelle Gronert, Director – School Design at Renelle.Gronert@education.govt.nz
Applications close Midnight – Thursday 12 June 2025
We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.
