Psychologist

New Zealand Government

Help shape the future of education in New Zealand

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 | Mo tenei turanga

This is a Fulltime, permanent position - based in our Palmerston North office

Come and work as part of a trans-disciplinary team where a child's needs are complex

As a Psychologist you will play a critical role in our region's Learning Support team by:

  • Enhancing inclusive practices in early learning services, schools and other educational settings
  • Providing professional support and guidance to early learning centres, schools, teachers and families and building the capacity of those who are best placed to support the learning of children and young people
  • Providing appropriate specialist assessment and analysis for collaboratively planned, evidence informed interventions
  • Working as part of a trans-disciplinary team where a child's needs are complex.
  • There may also be opportunities for involvement in project work, as well as individual casework, targeted (group) work, and universal (systems level) work.
  • `Thinking outside the box' and collaboration with others is encouraged, to ensure positive outcomes for students.
  • There may the opportunity to develop a specialist area of service delivery to best serve learners across the region.

Salary range: $85,416 - $121,466 per annum + KiwiSaver. 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 .

About you | Mohou ake

You will be a New Zealand Registered Psychologist under the Health Practitioners Competency Assurance Act and hold a current practicing certificate OR be registered as an Intern.

You will have a master's level tertiary qualification and a post-graduate Diploma in Educational Psychology or equivalent.

  • The ability to develop and interact effectively with people of other cultures focusing or relationship and recognising their identity, language and culture as a source of strength.
  • To demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Maori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Maori.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and an ability to work effectively with akonga, whanau and Kaiako across a diverse range of settings.
  • Ability to translate practitioner knowledge into practical information to upskill the adults around a child.
  • Ability to co-ordinate service provision in a multi-agency, trans-disciplinary setting.
  • A full current driver's licence is essential. Travel across the district is a requirement of the role.
  • The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

At Te Tahuhu o te Matauranga, we work to provide services and support nationally, regionally and locally to the education sector, and in some cases, directly to akonga and whanau. To better deliver on this, we are currently undergoing an organisational design change.a highly flexible work environment, great opportunities for progression, etc.

About our group and team | Matau ropu ake

The Education Services Group provides well-designed, integrated education services that support the impactful and effective operation of education settings to support student achievement and participation. The services help to remove barriers to participation and learning and provide regulatory advice, support and oversight to early learning providers, schools and kura.

  • Practice Guidance: Managing practice and guidance to improve national coordination and consistency, whilst enabling regional autonomy for education service delivery.
  • Integration Delivery: Providing education support directly to education settings via integrated regional and national services. This includes intervening when necessary to ensure a high standard of operation to support student outcomes and owning key stakeholder relationships to support schooling improvement and stronger outcomes for learners.
  • Monitoring Improvement: Monitoring and advising on improvements to the effectiveness, efficiency and equity of services for achievement and progression, and attendance and participation. This includes monitoring education provider performance against regulations and intervening as required.

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mo tenei 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 Peggy Warren, Service Manager at ***email_hidden***

Applications close midnight - Friday 10 July 2026.

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.