Principal Advisor Technical

Overview

Join the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) as a Principal Advisor Technical and play a central role in advancing New Zealand's building regulatory framework. This permanent position is available in Wellington or Christchurch and comes with a salary range of $132,417 to $160,472 plus KiwiSaver and wellness benefits.

Role Responsibilities

• Provide authoritative technical, regulatory, and strategic advice on complex building system challenges.
• Lead substantial programmes aimed at enhancing the building sector with evidence-based outcomes.
• Identify emerging risks and opportunities, shaping effective responses for the sector.
• Develop and sustain influential partnerships across government agencies, industry stakeholders, and professional bodies.
• Represent MBIE at key sector forums and engagements to promote improvement initiatives.
• Support team growth by mentoring and coaching to build capability.

Required Skills and Experience

• In-depth understanding of building systems, construction methods, or closely related technical areas.
• Proven experience in complex regulatory, policy, operational, or technical settings.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities, with ease in managing ambiguity and complexity.
• Capability to merge technical, regulatory, and strategic considerations into clear and actionable advice.
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills.
• Demonstrated influence and credibility with senior leaders and external stakeholders.
• Experience managing complex projects, programmes, or cross-disciplinary teams.
• Possession of a relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent senior professional experience.
• Legal right to work in New Zealand and ability to obtain MBIE security clearance.

About MBIE

MBIE is dedicated to fostering a resilient and high-performing economy that enhances New Zealanders' quality of life. It partners with business and communities to support productivity, international competitiveness, accessible job opportunities, and affordable quality housing.

MBIE operates under core values including collaboration, boldness, future-building, and responsibility. The organization honours its commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi through meaningful partnerships with Māori communities to support sustainable economic and social development.

Application Details

Interested candidates should prepare a CV and a cover letter outlining suitability for this role. Applications must be submitted via the designated online process before the deadline: Tuesday, 22nd September at 11:59 pm. For inquiries, contact Monica Chow at monica.chow2@mbie.govt.nz referencing ref MBIE/20114.