Senior Data Engineer

Job Type: Permanent | Full Time

Location: Christchurch, New Zealand

Job Category: IT

• Design and optimise scalable data platforms and pipelines
• Join a values-driven team protecting Canterbury’s environment
• Flexible work options and professional development support

About

Kaunihera Taiao ki Waitaha │ About Environment Canterbury

As a regional council, we are responsible for managing natural resources including air, soil, water and land. We work in partnership with mana whenua Ngāi Tahu to protect the health of our environment to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for our region.

The region’s evolving environmental and political context means we will continue to be agile and adaptive, as we respond to regulatory and environmental changes.

Our mahi (work) is organised around the delivery of our three core services:

• Environmental Regulation and Protection
• Community Preparedness and Response to Hazards
• Public Transport

Council plays an important role in responding to national legislation and policy changes – this mahi is part of our operating environment and is embedded in our everyday mahi. The current proposals from central government are significant, and Council is working through the opportunities and implications. However, our mahi must continue to deliver our three core services for our partners, communities and te taiao (environment).

Kōrero mō te Tūranga | About the Role

As Senior Data Engineer, you’ll serve as our principal technical authority for enterprise-level data engineering, providing thought leadership and driving collaboration on reference architecture and data solution designs. You’ll lead strategic initiatives, optimise systems, and offer expert advice to senior leaders. Your expertise will enable scalable, secure, and efficient data solutions that advance organisational priorities and Ngāi Tahu partnership aspirations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of key data initiatives. Design and maintain secure, scalable data pipelines and platforms
• Provide strategic advice on data investment and technology adoption
• Drive innovation through proof-of-concept initiatives
• Ensure compliance with governance, security, and regulatory frameworks
• Optimise data systems for scalability, security, and efficiency.
• Facilitate cross-functional collaboration to deliver robust and innovative data solutions.

For more information on this role, please refer to the job description at the bottom of the advert.

Mōu │ About You

You’re an experienced data engineering leader with a passion for innovation and collaboration. You can translate complex technical concepts into actionable advice and thrive in a dynamic environment.

Mātau ā-Wheako | Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field
• 10+ years delivering data solutions and enterprise-level architecture
• Proven experience with understanding of how to design systems and the different nuances within systems
• Proven experience with data related solutions, understanding of the principals of design, and how to build for the businesses needs
• Experience with Snowflake, Coalesce or WhereScape Red is advantageous
• Expertise in SQL, ETL, schema design, and cloud data platforms (e.g., Snowflake)
• Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and lead strategic initiatives
• Commitment to cultural capability and partnership with mana whenua

Ngā hua o te Mahi i te Kaunihera Taiao ki Waitaha | Working at Environment Canterbury

Our Mahi Is Underpinned By Our Values

• Kaitiakitanga (stewardship)
• Pononga (integrity)
• Manaakitanga (people first)
• Whanaungatanga (collaboration)
• Māiatanga (can do)

We understand and embrace a diverse workforce; this diversity will enable us to better serve our people, our community, and our greatest taonga, the environment. We value everyone’s contribution, diverse thinking, and skills.

We're on a journey to become a treaty partner of excellence, including incorporating te ao Māori into our work. We offer supportive opportunities to develop capability in this area and encourage our people to use kaupapa Māori, mātauranga Māori, and te reo Māori in our daily work. We welcome you with an open heart & mind, wherever you are on your personal te ao Māori journey.

Ko ētahi atu kōrero | Additional Information

Apply directly by completing the online application form and submitting your CV and cover letter. Applications close on Wednesday, 24 June and will be reviewed as they are received, so early applications are encouraged. Interviews may begin before the closing date, and we reserve the right to close the advertisement early.

Short-listed candidates will be required to complete an interview process, reference checks, and a criminal check. Further background checking will be required when relevant to the role.

We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. If you're excited about this role but don't meet every qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply.

Me mahi tahi tātou - Together we can