Senior Software Engineer - Backend Contractor

Westpac; New Zealand; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Westpac New Zealand is seeking a Senior Backend Developer to join our Product Engineering – Cards and Consumer Finance team. You will design, build, and maintain scalable backend applications, replacing legacy systems with modern tech from scratch.

You will bring 10+ years in API/backend development, strong Java/Spring Boot experience, and proficiency with Kafka and IBM MQ. DevOps, CI/CD, and containerisation experience are essential.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of API/backend development experience.
• Proficiency in Java, Spring Boot, Kafka, and IBM MQ.
• Strong DevOps experience with CI/CD, containers, and deployment automation.
• Experience with AI in design and development.
• Strong knowledge of database design, transactions, and SQL.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills to drive outcomes.
• Strong problem-solving skills using systems thinking.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and maintain applications and integration solutions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues to ensure system stability.
• Implement changes aligned with design specifications and evolving business needs.
• Lead continuous improvement by analyzing recurring issues.
• Maintain and refine support procedures for resilience and uptime.
• Contribute to release and deployment processes with documentation.
• Implement automated testing and ensure high-quality code via CI/CD.

Skills

API & Backend development

Java / Spring Boot / Kafka / IBM MQ

DevOps / CI-CD / containers

AI in design and development

Database design & SQL

Communication & influence

Systems thinking / problem solving

Job description

About us

At Westpac New Zealand, our purpose is to Help New Zealanders Succeed. As a Bank and one of New Zealand’s leading employers, we are passionate about helping people. We are taking action today to create a better future for the people who bank with us, work with us, invest in us or are part of our broader communities.

Mō te tūŁanga | About the Role

Join Westpac NZ as a Senior Backend Developer in our Product Engineering – Cards and Consumer Finance team. You’ll play a key role in designing, developing, and maintaining scalable applications using backend technologies. You’ll replace a critical legacy system with modern tech stack starting from scratch.

Ko šŋ mahi | What you’ll do

• Design, develop, test, and maintain applications and integration solutions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues, ensuring system stability.
• Implement changes aligned with design specifications and evolving business needs.
• Analyse recurring issues and lead continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain and refine support procedures to ensure resilience and minimise downtime.
• Contribute to release and deployment processes, ensuring accurate documentation and compliance.
• Implement automated testing and ensure high-quality code through code reviews and continuous integration practices.

Nā tā u rourou | What will you bring?

• At least 10+ years’ experience across API and Backend development
• Proficiency with server-side development (Java, Spring Boot, Kafka, IBM MQ).
• Experience in DevOps such as CI/CD pipelines, containerisation, and deployment automation.
• Experience using AI for design and development.
• Strong knowledge of database schema design, transactions, and queries.
• Exceptional influencing and communication skills, with the ability to guide individuals toward fast and effective outcomes.
• Strong problem-solving skills using systems thinking and analytical approaches.