Psychologist

About the Role

This permanent full-time position is based at the Ministry of Education office in Nelson, New Zealand. As an Educational Psychologist within the region’s Learning Support team, you will be a vital part of a trans-disciplinary team addressing complex needs of children. Your responsibilities will include promoting inclusive practices in early learning centers, schools, and other education environments. You will provide expert support and guidance to educators, families, and learning centers, enhancing the capability of those who support children’s learning.

Your role involves conducting specialist assessments and analyses to inform collaborative, evidence-based interventions. You will collaborate extensively within the trans-disciplinary team to meet diverse learner needs. Opportunities may also arise for involvement in project work, individual casework, targeted group activities, and systems-level initiatives. Creativity and cooperative approaches are encouraged to achieve positive educational outcomes. There may be a possibility to develop specialized delivery services tailored to regional learner requirements.

About You

You must be a New Zealand Registered Psychologist under the Health Practitioners Competency Assurance Act with a current practicing certificate or be registered as an Intern. A master’s degree and a postgraduate Diploma in Educational Psychology or an equivalent qualification are required.

Additional expectations include:

• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, respecting and valuing their identity, language, and culture.
• Willingness or knowledge to understand Te Ao Māori principles and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with students (ākonga), families (whānau), and educators (Kaiako) in various settings.
• Capacity to convert practitioner knowledge into practical guidance to empower adults supporting the child’s learning.
• Skill in coordinating multidisciplinary service delivery within multi-agency contexts.
• Possession of a full current driver's license and willingness to travel within the district.
• Commitment to uphold Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About the Team

Te Mahau | Education Services is the frontline group providing integrated leadership and services to the education sector. Learning Support is a key function within this group, focused on enabling children and young people with additional learning needs to realize their full educational potential. The team collaborates closely with families, caregivers, schools, early childhood educators in English and Māori medium settings, and relevant agencies to enhance learning outcomes and social inclusion.

Additional Information

Salary Range: NZD 85416 to NZD 126000 per annum, plus KiwiSaver contributions. Final salary will reflect individual skills and experience.

Application Instructions: Applicants are requested to submit a cover letter and resume. The cover letter should reflect your values, motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you offer.

Contact: For further queries, contact Leanne Greep, Service Manager, Nelson, at [email protected] or 027 213 8576.

Closing Date: Applications close at midnight on Monday, 27 July 2026.

The Ministry embraces diversity and inclusivity and encourages applicants who may require assistance or adjustments during the recruitment process to communicate their needs.