Principal SCADA Architect

Christchurch City Council; Central City (KY); On-site; USD 135,000 - 152,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading council is seeking a Principal SCADA Architect to lead the strategic direction of SCADA systems across the Three Waters division. This role will involve overseeing governance, driving cybersecurity initiatives, and directly shaping the future of water infrastructure, impacting community wellbeing significantly.

Benefits

Access to training and development opportunities

Flexible working arrangements

Health schemes and retail discounts

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in SCADA design and leadership.
• Strong technical background in SCADA systems and cybersecurity.
• Experience in modernising legacy systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and drive SCADA strategy and roadmap.
• Oversee SCADA system governance and standards.
• Lead collaboration across council departments.

Skills

SCADA design

cybersecurity

collaboration

Education

Degree in Electrical, Electronics, or Control Systems Engineering

Job description

About the role | Ko te mahi nei

Are you ready to shape the future of water infrastructure in Christchurch? We're looking for a Principal SCADA Architect to lead the strategic direction, governance, and performance of SCADA systems across our Three Waters division. This is more than just an operational role - it's an opportunity to make a long-term impact by modernising, securing, and optimising critical systems that support $5 billion worth of water assets.

In this role you will:

• Develop and drive our SCADA strategy and roadmap
• Oversee SCADA system governance, standards, and continuous improvement
• Champion cybersecurity initiatives in partnership with our Digital and Cybersecurity teams
• Lead collaboration across council departments and external partners
• Represent the Council at national level on matters such as cybersecurity and infrastructure resilience
• Guide, mentor, and influence SCADA and EI&C teams
• Play a key role in risk mitigation, incident response, and business continuity planning

You're a seasoned SCADA professional with a deep technical background and a strategic mindset. You're excited by the challenge of working at the interface between IT and OT, and thrive in cross-functional environments where leadership is about influence, collaboration, and innovation.

You'll bring:

• 12+ years of experience in SCADA design, implementation, and leadership
• A degree in Electrical, Electronics, or Control Systems Engineering (or similar)
• Strong knowledge of SCADA platforms, PLC/RTU systems, and OT cybersecurity
• Experience in modernising legacy systems and driving digital transformation
• Confidence engaging with executive stakeholders, vendors, and regulatory bodies
• A current driver's licence and the ability to work across Christchurch sites

Bonus points if you have certifications like CISSP, GICSP, or experience with NIST, IEC 62443, or ISA112 standards.

What's in it for you? He aha ngā hua ki a koe?

This is a highly strategic role offering autonomy, visibility, and the chance to make a real difference across both operational technology and community wellbeing. When you join us, you're getting involved first hand, and contributing to crafting the Christchurch community. You will also benefit from:

• Access to training programmes, workshops, and development opportunities
• Flexible working arrangements - WFH, adjustable start and finish times, option to purchase extra leave.
• Collaboration - exposure to wider areas of the organisation
• Benefits - a variety of benefits for Council staff from health schemes to retail discounts.

If this sounds like an interesting opportunity, you think you have what it takes and want to get involved in shaping our City then please apply today.

At the Christchurch City Council, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with the job description, we encourage you to apply anyways.

We understand that recruitment processes can be challenging. If you require any support or adjustments to help you put your best foot forward, please reach out to us [e-mail]

Hours of work - 37.5 - 40 hours per week
Position - Permanent
Location- This position is primarily based at Te Hononga, Christchurch City Council Civic Offices - 53 Hereford Street
Salary-The salary band for this position goes from$135,907 to $151,008 per annum based on a 40 hour week. Starting salaries will be based on knowledge, skills and experience the successful candidate brings to the role, and relativities both, within the immediate team and in the broader organisation for the same or similar roles.
Closing Date - 24/06/2025

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews may take place prior to the close date. This means we reserve the right to close a job ad before the advertised close date.

Reference # 39064

Posted on 03 Jun 2025

Closes on 24 Jun 2025 23:00

Location(s) Central City

Expertise Business/Systems Analysis, Information Technology

Central City | Post date: 05 Jun 2025 | Close date: 15 Jun 2025 23:00 | Expertise: Engineering, Management | Work Type: Permanent, Full-time

Central City | Post date: 04 Jun 2025 | Close date: 08 Jun 2025 23:59 | Expertise: Information Technology | Work Type: Permanent, Full-time

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