Economist at Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade, Wellington

• Inform New Zealand’s trade and economic policy
• Work, learn and grow alongside some of the country’s top minds
• Influence cutting- edge economic policy development

Development opportunity to build your economic capability with the Economic Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

We are seeking an Economist with a curious and highly analytical mind to join MFAT’s Research and Analysis Unit. The Economist will support our research agenda and provide analytical support to other divisions across the Ministry and other public sector agencies.

Key responsibilities of the role include:

• Supporting the qualitative and quantitative economic analysis of New Zealand’s international trade and trade policy, including trade agreements,
• Providing economic analysis and insight to inform the broader work and objectives of the Ministry
• Supporting New Zealand Ministers and senior officials international engagement, with evidence based economic analysis and advice, and
• Working across government agencies to contribute to New Zealand’s broader economic policy development.

Operating in a fast-paced complex environment, this role will be stimulating and challenging. It will prove rewarding to someone with up to five years previous experience operating in a commercial or policy-based environment wishing to further develop their economic capability. 

The successful candidate will have a strong economics and/or evaluation background, with solid written and verbal communication skills.

A post-graduate tertiary degree in economics, econometrics, data science or a similar qualification would be expected of the successful candidate.

In addition, demonstrated experience in data analysis and coding experience in “R” or a similar language would also be preferred.

An understanding of trade policy, the global trade architecture and New Zealand’s international trade profile would be advantageous but is not essential.

We are committed to a focus on leadership, talent, training and development, and flexible work options.  Check out our benefits page to find out more about why we love working here.

We are also working to grow the diversity of our workforce and the inclusive nature of our workplace. Click on our diversity and inclusion page to find out more.

Our people represent New Zealand on and offshore, and in doing so make New Zealanders safer and more prosperous.  By building connections with and influencing other countries and international institutions, we advance New Zealand’s interests and pursue New Zealand's values.  We provide advice to the Government on the implications for New Zealand of what is happening in the world. 

This is not a Foreign Policy/diplomatic role.  This is a ‘Corporate’ role (known here as a Specialist role) based in central Wellington, NZ.  

While it is not usual for specialist staff to be ‘posted’ outside of NZ, from time to time a specialist role overseas becomes available at one of our embassies, high commissions, missions or consulates. To be considered for one of these positions you will need to apply and be considered via a competitive recruitment process.

If you have an interest in an MFAT foreign policy career you will be welcome to apply for this either via our graduate recruitment or mid-level foreign policy recruitment campaigns.

Apply today with your CV and cover letter.

For a copy of the position description please click here

To apply for this role you must be able to obtain and maintain an appropriate NZ Government Security clearance.

Use this online tool to self-check your eligibility for a minimum Confidential security clearance. Please note that this tool is not part of the formal security clearance process:

http://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/eligibility-tool

Applications close at midnight on 21st August 2022