Data Engineer

Waste Management; Wellington; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

WM New Zealand is seeking a Data Engineer to design, build, and optimise data products and platforms that underpin the business. You will lead the development of scalable data pipelines and modern data architectures, collaborating with stakeholders and analytics teams to drive better decision-making.

The role combines hands-on engineering with strategic input, including mentoring junior engineers and contributing to data governance practices within a large, operational organisation.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in designing and building scalable data solutions.
• Strong understanding of data modelling, ETL/ELT processes, and governance.
• Ability to translate business requirements into technical data products.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain scalable data pipelines and data products.
• Lead implementation of modern data architectures and platforms.
• Ensure data reliability, security, accessibility, and governance.

Skills

Data engineering

Data pipelines

Stakeholder collaboration

Mentoring

Data governance

Tools

Snowflake

SQL

dbt

Data Factory

Databricks

Job description

At WM New Zealand, we're more than New Zealand's leading resource recovery, recycling, and waste management company. We're helping create a more sustainable future by leveraging technology, data, and innovation to drive meaningful business outcomes.

Job Description

As our data landscape continues to evolve, we're looking for a Data Engineer to play a key role in designing, building, and optimising the data products and platforms that underpin our business.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys solving complex problems, building scalable data solutions, and influencing how data is used across a large, operational organisation.

About the role

As a Data Engineer, you'll lead the design, development, and optimisation of data products and infrastructure across the organisation. You'll work closely with stakeholders, analysts, and our digital solutions team to deliver reliable, scalable, and high-performing data solutions that enable better decision-making and business performance.

This role offers a balance of technical, hands-on engineering, and strategic contribution, making it ideal for someone who enjoys both building and influencing.

What you'll be responsible for

• Designing, developing, and maintaining scalable data pipelines and data products
• Leading the implementation and optimisation of modern data architectures and platforms
• Ensuring data is reliable, secure, accessible, and fit for business use
• Collaborating with stakeholders to understand requirements and translate them into technical solutions
• Supporting and mentoring junior Data Engineers and contributing to technical capability across the team
• Driving continuous improvement in data engineering practices, standards, and governance
• Working closely with analytics, reporting, and AI teams to enable advanced insights and innovation
• Monitoring and optimising data performance, quality, and availability across systems
• Contributing to strategic data initiatives that support business growth and transformation

Qualifications

About you

You're a passionate and experienced Data Engineer who thrives on creating scalable solutions. You enjoy partnering with stakeholders, solving complex challenges, and helping organisations unlock the value of their data.

You'll bring:

• At least 2 years’ experience working with both cloud-based and on-premises data warehousing environments
• Strong expertise in building and maintaining modern data platforms and data pipelines
• Hands-on experience with technologies such as Snowflake, SQL, dbt, Data Factory, Databricks, or equivalent
• Strong understanding of data modelling, ETL/ELT processes, and data architecture principles
• Experience optimising data performance, quality, and governance practices
• The ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• A collaborative mindset and a passion for continuous improvement
• Experience mentoring or providing technical guidance to other engineers would be highly regarded

Additional Information

Why join WM New Zealand?

• Opportunity to work on meaningful projects that deliver real business impact
• Ongoing learning, development, and career progression opportunities
• Flexible working arrangements that support work-life balance

At WM, we invest in our people - because they are our greatest asset.

WM New Zealand is an equal opportunity employer committed to maintaining a safe and drug and alcohol-free workplace.

Applicants must be based in New Zealand and hold current NZ work rights (citizenship, residency, or valid work visa).