Science, Technology & Analytics

What You Could Do

Career Opportunities in Science & Technology

Roles across New Zealand’s science and technology sector are wide-ranging — spanning entry-level technical positions through to highly specialised professional careers.

The industry includes:

• Technical support roles
• Applied scientific careers
• Research-focused professions
• Analytical and data-driven roles

Example Career Paths

Here are just a few of the careers you could pursue:

ICT Support Technician

ICT Support Technicians help organisations maintain and optimise their technology systems.

Responsibilities may include:

• Diagnosing and resolving technical issues
• Maintaining hardware and software
• Supporting networks and infrastructure
• Assisting users and teams
• Managing systems and digital tools

These roles exist across nearly every industry.

Research Scientist (Specialist)

Research Scientists specialise in fields such as:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Environmental science
• Biomedical science

They typically:

• Design and conduct experiments
• Investigate scientific questions
• Analyse findings
• Publish research
• Contribute to innovation and discovery

Research & Development (R&D) Consultant

R&D Consultants apply expertise to solve practical challenges.

They may:

• Conduct studies and evaluations
• Analyse research and evidence
• Design research programmes
• Provide strategic advice
• Support innovation initiatives

Common across private industry, research institutes, and government.

Mathematician

Mathematicians apply mathematical principles to solve complex problems.

Career areas include:

• Technology
• Engineering
• Finance
• Data science
• Research & academia

Their work underpins modelling, algorithms, forecasting, and optimisation.

Statistician

Statisticians interpret and analyse data to guide decision-making.

They often work in:

• Science & research
• Healthcare
• Government
• Business & finance
• Technology

Statistical expertise supports policy, strategy, and innovation.

And Many More…

The sector also includes careers in:

• Data Science & Analytics
• Cybersecurity
• Software Development
• Laboratory Technology
• Engineering
• Health Sciences
• Environmental Consultancy
• AI & Machine Learning

Explore & Research

Because career pathways are so diverse, one of the best steps you can take is:

✅ Research different roles
✅ Understand qualification requirements
✅ Identify your strengths
✅ Gain practical experience where possible

Building awareness helps you make informed decisions about study and career directions.

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Graduate Outcomes & Gender Split

Qualifications & Graduate Outcomes

Many careers in New Zealand’s science and technology sector are built on a strong foundation of theory, research, and specialist knowledge.

For this reason, a bachelor’s degree is commonly required, particularly for professional and technical roles.

Fields of study may include:

• Information Technology & Computer Science
• Data Science & Analytics
• Mathematics & Statistics
• Physical or Biological Sciences
• Engineering & Technology
• Environmental or Health Sciences

Graduate Employment Insights

Graduate employment trends in New Zealand continue to show positive outcomes for science and technology-related degrees.

Typical patterns indicate:

Computing & Information Systems
• Strong full-time employment outcomes
• High overall employment rates

Science & Mathematics
• Solid overall employment rates
• Diverse career pathways across industries

It’s important to remember that graduate data may not fully reflect those who are:

• Working part-time
• Freelancing or contracting
• Pursuing postgraduate study
• Building entrepreneurial careers

Overall, employment prospects across these disciplines remain encouraging.

Gender Representation

Gender balance within science and technology careers varies depending on:

• Industry segment
• Occupation type
• Seniority level

Many areas of the sector show relatively balanced participation, while some technical or production-focused roles may have differing representation.

Indicative workforce patterns in certain manufacturing and production-related roles show:

• Higher male participation
• Growing female representation

However, representation continues to evolve across:

✅ Technology
✅ Research
✅ Engineering
✅ Data & analytics
✅ Laboratory sciences

A Changing Industry

New Zealand’s science and technology workforce is becoming increasingly:

• Diverse
• Inclusive
• Interdisciplinary

Industry initiatives continue to support broader participation and equity across STEM careers.

Average Salary

Current surveys in the sector indicate the median salaries for full-time roles in this industry as:

• Information Computer Technology (ICT) Support Technician: $55,00-$78,000
• Research Scientist (Specialist): $91,000-$106,000
• Research and Development Consultant: $93,000-$98,000
• Mathematician: $90,000-$159,000
• Statistician: $72,000-$100,000
• Microbiologist: $58,000-$69,500

Salaries are also determined by several factors, including:

• The segment of the industry you work within.
• Your job title and seniority.
• The amount of experience you have.
• Location, some rural areas may pay less than roles in main cities.

Industry Growth

Industry Growth & Innovation

New Zealand continues to invest in initiatives that support growth, innovation, and global competitiveness across the science, technology, and advanced industries.

Government-backed programmes and industry partnerships are designed to strengthen capability, accelerate innovation, and expand international opportunities.

Focus of Industry Growth Initiatives

Key priorities include:

• Encouraging collaboration between research, industry, and education
• Supporting commercialisation of new technologies
• Expanding global market access
• Developing workforce skills and leadership capability
• Identifying opportunities for regulatory improvement

These initiatives help translate ideas and research into real-world solutions and economic impact.

Priority Growth Areas

Several sectors have been identified as strategically important for future investment and job creation:

Advanced Manufacturing Technologies
Innovation in materials, automation, precision engineering, and smart production systems.

Cybersecurity & Information Security
Protecting digital infrastructure, data, and systems across industries.

Medical & Pharmaceutical Technologies
Development of healthcare innovations, diagnostics, therapeutics, and biotech solutions.

Opportunities for Future Professionals

Growth across these areas is expected to drive demand for skills in:

✅ Technology & digital systems
✅ Engineering & design
✅ Data & analytics
✅ Research & development
✅ Health & biomedical sciences

A Sector Shaping the Future

Science and technology innovation plays a central role in supporting:

• Economic resilience
• Productivity growth
• Healthcare advancement
• Environmental sustainability
• Global competitiveness

• Mining technology.
• Oil, gas, and energy processes and technology.

Qualifications and Entry Pathways

Qualifications & Study Pathways

For many professional roles in New Zealand’s science, technology, and analytics sectors, completing a bachelor’s degreeprovides a strong foundation of theory, technical knowledge, and problem-solving capability.

Relevant degree pathways may include:

• Bachelor of Mathematics
• Bachelor of Science (specialising in biology, chemistry, physics, or related fields)
• Bachelor of Biotechnology
• Bachelor of Computer Science
• Bachelor of Information Technology
• Bachelor of Engineering (for technology-focused disciplines)

Postgraduate & Research Study

Following a bachelor’s degree, many professionals choose to pursue:

• Honours degrees
• Master’s degrees
• Doctoral (PhD) study

These pathways allow for deeper specialisation in areas such as:

✅ Data science
✅ Artificial intelligence
✅ Biomedical science
✅ Environmental science
✅ Advanced technology
✅ Scientific research

Vocational & Applied Training

Vocational education offers practical, career-focused entry routes — particularly for ICT and technology roles.

Examples of relevant New Zealand qualifications include:

• New Zealand Diploma in Information Technology (Level 5–6)
• New Zealand Certificate in Information Technology (Level 3–4)
• Cybersecurity qualifications
• Networking & systems administration programmes
• Business information systems study

These programmes emphasise hands-on, job-ready skills.

Apprenticeships & Workplace Learning

Some technology and digital careers may be accessed through:

• Apprenticeships
• Traineeships
• Employer-led training
• Industry certifications

These options support:

✅ Practical experience
✅ Earn-while-you-learn pathways
✅ Industry-recognised credentials

Do Your Research

Requirements vary depending on:

• Career pathway
• Industry segment
• Employer expectations
• Qualification level

Always review job descriptions and training prerequisites carefully.

A Pathway for Everyone

Regardless of your academic results, interests, or preferred learning style:

✅ University degrees
✅ Vocational study
✅ Certifications
✅ Apprenticeships

There are multiple pathways into New Zealand’s science and technology workforce.

Best Places to Study

Where to Study

Where you choose to study will depend on your interests, career goals, preferred specialisation, and learning style. Different institutions offer particular strengths across science and technology disciplines.

Leading New Zealand Universities for Science

University of Auckland
Offers a wide range of science majors including biological, chemical, environmental, and physical sciences.

University of Otago
Well known for health sciences, biomedical science, and research-focused programmes.

Victoria University of Wellington
Recognised for science, environmental studies, and research excellence.

University of Canterbury
Strong in physical sciences, applied science, and interdisciplinary research.

Massey University
Offers programmes across applied sciences, biotechnology, and environmental science.

Leading New Zealand Universities for Technology & Computing

Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
Highly regarded for IT, computer science, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies.

University of Auckland
Provides comprehensive programmes in computer science, software engineering, and data science.

Victoria University of Wellington
Strong focus on technology, innovation, and digital systems.

University of Canterbury
Recognised for engineering, software development, and ICT-related study.

Massey University
Offers technology, information systems, and applied digital programmes.

Things to Consider When Choosing Where to Study

✅ Programme specialisation
✅ Practical vs theoretical focus
✅ Research opportunities
✅ Industry connections
✅ Facilities & labs
✅ Location & lifestyle

Both university and vocational providers can support careers in science, technology, and analytics.

Where to Learn More

Learn More About Science & Technology Careers

You can explore career pathways, professional development opportunities, and industry insights through organisations that support and advocate for New Zealand’s science, technology, and innovation sectors.

Some great places to start include:

Engineering New Zealand
Professional body supporting engineers, technologists, and technical specialists.

IT Professionals New Zealand (ITPNZ)
Represents ICT professionals and supports career development across technology fields.

New Zealand Institute of IT Professionals / Tech Industry Groups
Provide networking, certifications, and industry resources.

New Zealand Association of Scientists (NZAS)
Advocates for science professionals and promotes science careers.

Royal Society Te Apārangi
Supports research, scholarship, and science advancement in New Zealand.

New Zealand Institute of Physics / Chemistry / Biology Associations
Discipline-specific bodies offering professional support and networks.

New Zealand Information Security Forum (NZISF)
Community supporting cybersecurity and information security professionals.

Callaghan Innovation
Supports innovation, R&D, and technology commercialisation.

Why Connect with Professional Bodies?

These organisations can help you:

✅ Understand career pathways
✅ Access industry insights
✅ Build professional networks
✅ Discover training & certification options
✅ Stay informed on sector trends

Regional & Specialist Organisations

Across New Zealand, regional associations and specialist groups also offer:

• Industry events
• Workshops & seminars
• Career resources
• Mentorship opportunities

Science and technology careers span diverse industries including research, healthcare, technology, engineering, sustainability, analytics, and education.