Principal Data Engineer

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi; Palmerston North; On-site; NZD 148,000 - 176,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

5 weeks annual leave

Flexible work arrangements

Insurance: Life, Income Protection & C

Job summary

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is seeking a data engineering leader to shape how data is engineered, governed, and leveraged across the organisation. You will influence enterprise decisions and enable innovation.

This permanent, full-time role offers a salary from NZD 148,480 to 175,580, with flexible working arrangements and a strong rewards package. Location is flexible to NZTA office locations.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience leading large-scale enterprise data engineering initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Shape how data is engineered and governed across NZTA.

Skills

Data engineering leadership

Mentoring

Stakeholder engagement

Databricks

Lakehouse

SQL

Python/Scala/R

Cloud platforms

Governance & compliance

Tools

Databricks

Cloud platforms

Job description

• Shape the future of data engineering at NZTA
• Provide enterprise-wide technical leadership across data platforms, governance, and delivery
• Mentor and develop our next generation of data engineering talent
• Permanent, full-time position – Can be based in any NZTA office location

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

Technical leadership role shaping how data is engineered, governed, and leveraged across NZTA - influence enterprise decisions, enable innovation, and help build the future of data and AI capability across the organisation. View the Position Description. Appointment salary is from $148,480 to $175,580 commensurate with skills and experience.

Ko koe tēnei | About you

You're an experienced data engineering leader who combines technical expertise with strategic thinking and organisational influence. You understand how modern data platforms can unlock value at scale and enjoy creating an environment where engineers can thrive.

Ideally, You'll Bring

• Extensive experience leading large-scale enterprise data engineering initiatives
• Proven experience mentoring and developing technical specialists to build organisation capability
• The ability to influence senior leaders and provide trusted technical advice on complex decisions
• Deep expertise in Databricks, modern cloud-based data platforms, and Lakehouse architecture
• Experience designing and delivering solutions that support analytics, AI, machine learning, and business intelligence
• A strong understanding of data governance, security, privacy, and compliance requirements
• Strong capability across SQL and languages such as Python, Scala, or R
• Experience balancing delivery outcomes with long-term platform sustainability and technical debt management
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills

Mō mātou | About us

At NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) our purpose is transport networks that deliver for people, places and New Zealand. Our Te Aukaha - Digital group helps enable that by providing modern, fit-for-purpose digital, information, and technology services for our people, partners, and customers. We are future-focused, collaborative, and committed to creating better outcomes for Aotearoa.

Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you'll get in return

We Offer a Comprehensive Rewards Package Including

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• 5 weeks annual leave
• Flexible working arrangements.
• a free Life, Income Protection and Critical Illness insurance scheme available for permanent employees.

Rā Katinga | Applications close

6 September 2026

For further information, email: [e-mail]

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.