Job Description

• Bring your expert analytical skills and strong understanding of the New Zealand Payment industry
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, contributing to the future of simple, secure and efficient payment offerings for our customers
• 12-month Fixed Term opportunity based in Palmerston North

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

Are you ready to help shape the future of payments in one of New Zealand’s largest and most complex organisations? NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is seeking a Senior Payment Analyst to join our Financial Operations team in Palmerston North.

In this pivotal role, you’ll analyse, optimise, and report on payment processes and digital payment services, ensuring our $1.5 billion+ annual online payment operations are secure, robust, and aligned with enterprise strategies. You’ll keep abreast of industry standards and emerging payment technologies, provide oversight of payment transaction processing and resolution of issues, mitigate fraud risk, and deliver insightful business reports. You’ll also collaborate with internal and external stakeholders and service providers to implement new payment solutions and system enhancements, supporting efficient operations and a reliable payment offering to New Zealanders.

The position description can be viewed here.

Ō Pūmanawa | What we're looking for

Our ideal candidate will have some or all of the following (but don’t worry if you don’t tick every box):

• Proven experience in payment operations, financial services, or banking, with strong technical knowledge of payment ecosystems and compliance standards (e.g. PCI-DSS, Card Scheme Rules).
• Ability to analyse payment data, identify trends and anomolies, and provide actionable insights to support business decisions.
• Experience in process documentation, solution testing, training, and supporting users.
• Excellent relationship management skills, confident presenting to different audiences, and the courage to constructively challenge.
• Well-developed analytical and problem-solving skills, including error detection and critical thinking.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools and software (e.g. Excel, SQL, Microsoft Power suite).
• Tertiary qualification in Finance, Accounting, Banking, Technology, or a relevant discipline (or equivalent experience).
• Knowledge of, or willingness to gain an understanding of, Te Ao Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi as it applies in the public sector.

Mō mātou | About Us

Our people are proud to be part of creating a better New Zealand. We’re searching for candidates who share our passion for people, communities, and the environment – and who are ready to contribute their unique skills to shape a better future.

At NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, you'll be part of an organisation where the different backgrounds, perspectives and life experiences of our people are celebrated. We want you to feel like you belong here – valued, respected, and empowered to bring your whole self to work.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

26 October 2026

For further information, email: careers@nzta.govt.nz

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.