Principal Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning (ML) Engineer

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Principal Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning (ML) Engineer

Location: Wellington, New Zealand

Type: Full-time, Fixed Term (12 Months)

Are you passionate about the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence? Do you thrive in fast-paced, high-impact environments where innovation meets purpose? Lead the Future of AI at NZQA.

Whakatairangatia ngā kete o te mātauranga ki te ao mārama! E te tai whakarunga, e te tai whakararo – nau piki mai, nau kake mai ki te Mana Tohu Mātauranga o Aotearoa.

May the baskets of knowledge (education) be brought into the world of light. We welcome one and all to join us at the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.

He angitūtanga | About the Role

NZQA is keen to harness AI to better serve learners, educators, and stakeholders across Aotearoa. We're seeking a dynamic Principal AI Engineer to drive experimentation, lead AI initiatives, and deliver real-world solutions that make a difference.

This is a high-energy, high-impact role where you'll work closely with our Senior Leadership Team, technology team, data experts, subject matter experts and stakeholders to identify, trial, and implement AI opportunities that align with NZQA's strategic objectives.

Ngā kawenga | What You'll Do

• Lead AI innovation: Identify and prioritise a portfolio of AI opportunities across NZQA. Develop and deliver a roadmap of AI experiments/ projects that solve real problems and unlock new possibilities. You may need to juggle a few initiatives at the same time, while also developing stakeholder relationships and driving awareness of AI.
• Build and deploy AI solutions as relevant: Design and implement machine learning models and AI tools that support data-driven decision-making and process automation.
• Visualise insights: Create dynamic dashboards and visual reports that tell compelling stories and guide strategic action.
• Collaborate across teams: Work with internal teams, vendors, and sector partners to ensure AI initiatives are aligned, effective, and future-focused.
• Manage projects and budgets: Oversee AI project portfolios, ensuring timely delivery, measurable benefits, and responsible budget management.

Ō pūkenga | What You'll Bring

• Proven experience leading AI initiatives in a complex organisation.
• Strong technical skills in machine learning, data modelling, and AI solution development.
• Masters in Computer Sciences at a minimum, preferably PhD in Computer Science is highly preferrable
• You need to be highly engaging with stakeholders as well with technical staff
• You should have high resilience and ability to work at speed across multiple initiatives
• You should be able to right-size initiatives and have the ability to prevent over-designing/ over-engineering work
• Excellent communication skills – able to translate complex data into clear, actionable insights.
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to influence and inspire stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience managing projects, budgets, and vendor relationships.
• A passion for innovation, experimentation, and continuous improvement.

He aha ai mātou? | Why NZQA?

At NZQA, we're committed to shaping a future where every learner can succeed. You'll be part of a forward-thinking organisation that values creativity, diversity, and impact. We offer:

• A supportive and inclusive work environment
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• A chance to lead meaningful change in the education sector

NZQA is a te reo Māori learning organisation and is committed to equity and lifelong learning. We welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds that will enrich our understanding of the education system. We prioritise the importance of understanding tikanga in building a culturally responsive workplace.  NZQA is dedicated to providing a welcoming environment to Māori and Pacific staff and has active Māori and Pacific staff networks which contribute to NZQA's strategic action plans.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Ready to lead the AI charge at NZQA? Apply now with your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and what excites you about this opportunity.

For more information about this role and NZQA please refer to the job description, NZQA's Customer Charter and Organisational Values. If you are applying/viewing through Seek, please click ‘apply now' to access these links.

If you would like to discuss further, please contact Prashant Bakshi via 021 210 2615 or Prashant.Bakshi@nzqa.govt.nz.

Applications close at 5.00 pm on 30 June 2025.