Research Programmer - Department of Statistics, Te Kura Tatauranga

Job Description

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

The University of Auckland refers to this role as a Research Programmer.

Based within the Department of Statistics - Te Kura Tatauranga ,this role provides specialist technical support to academic staff, students, and external stakeholders through the development, deployment, and maintenance of bespoke online systems such as iNZight that support teaching and learning.

You will play a key role in shaping the department's digital teaching environment, working on applications used by large numbers of students while supporting the infrastructure, software, and specialised computing resources required for teaching and research. This position offers significant opportunities to design innovative solutions, adopt new technologies, and contribute to the future of online education.

Minimum Qualification:

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related discipline.

Work experience:

• At least three years' experience developing and maintaining online systems serving large user communities.
• Demonstrated experience building, updating, and testing Shiny applications and other R software.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to work effectively with students, academic staff, and professional staff.

Skills:

• Experience with the R programming language and packages such as Shiny.
• Full-stack web development experience using technologies such as HTML, JavaScript, PHP, and related frameworks.
• An understanding of Docker and container-based systems.
• Ability to quickly learn and apply new technologies, platforms, and development methodologies.
• Experience applying structured software development and testing practices.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to assess technical risks and accurately estimate project effort.

This Technical Services position is based within the Department of Statistics on the University of Auckland's City Campus in central Auckland.

Ideal start date: February 2027

This is a permanent, part-time position (22.5 hours per week).

The salary range for this position is $73,400 - $84,650 pro rata, depending on experience, qualifications, and skills.

For more detailed information, please refer to the Position Description.

Mō tō mātou rōpū | About the team

This role primarily supports the Department of Statistics - Te Kura Tatauranga , the largest Statistics Department in Australasia and one of the largest departments within the Faculty of Science.

The department has a strong tradition of innovation in statistical computing and teaching, and supports a vibrant community of researchers, educators, and students. You will join a collaborative team that values initiative, creativity, and technical excellence.

He kōrero mōu | About you

You are passionate about building reliable and innovative online systems that deliver real value to users. You enjoy solving technical challenges, working with diverse stakeholders, and exploring new technologies that improve teaching and learning outcomes.

You will have demonstrated experience developing production-ready Shiny applications. Experience deploying containerised applications in cloud environments, such as AWS or Azure, would be highly advantageous, as would an interest in educational technology and online learning.

Most importantly, you are proactive, adaptable, and eager to contribute to a department recognised internationally for excellence in statistics and statistical computing.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

The University of Auckland is New Zealand's leading university and provides access to world-class computational, laboratory, and analytical facilities. Auckland consistently ranks among the world's most liveable cities, offering an outstanding lifestyle alongside excellent professional opportunities.

The University is committed to providing an exceptional working environment through:

• Flexible work arrangements, including hybrid working options and flexible hours.
• Up to 6.75% employer contribution to the UniSaver superannuation scheme.
• Competitive salary package and five weeks' annual leave.

In addition, we offer professional development opportunities, discounted parking, generous parental leave provisions, childcare services, and a wide range of discounts and wellbeing initiatives.

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online by 22nd November 2026 to be considered.

Please submit:

• A cover letter outlining your interest in the role.
• A current CV highlighting how your experience aligns with the skills and requirements described above.

For a confidential discussion about the position, please contact Wannes van der Mark at [email protected]. Please note that we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.

Qualifications

Additional Information

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz