Principal Systems Engineer

• Lead our Engineering Chapter as a Principal Systems Engineer
• Your expertise will contribute to future proofing infrastructural innovation
• Auckland, Palmerston North or Wellington locations

We are strengthening technical and craft leadership across our Technology Chapters, with greater depth of expertise and stronger support for our people and delivery. These opportunities strengthen technical direction, mentoring and craft development, while building the leadership capacity needed for more effective workforce planning and capability development.


Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
As Principal Systems Engineer, you'll provide technical leadership across critical enterprise platforms, shaping the design and delivery of secure, scalable, and reliable solutions that support NZTA's digital services. Working across cloud and on-premises environments, you will influence technical direction, resolve complex issues, and help ensure platforms remain resilient, efficient, and fit for the future.

This role combines hands-on engineering expertise with strategic influence. You'll work closely with Platform Leads, Product Owners, and delivery teams to guide technical decision-making, contribute to technology roadmaps, support service integrity, and drive continuous improvement through modern engineering, Agile, and DevOps practices.

Beyond technical delivery, you will play a key role in growing engineering capability across NZTA. Through mentoring, coaching, and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, you'll help build a high-performing team while championing best practice, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning.

You will:

• Lead the design and delivery of enterprise technology solutions
• Drive platform reliability across cloud and on-prem environments
• Provide leadership during complex incidents and critical outages
• Champion Agile, DevOps, and continuous improvement practices
• Influence technology roadmaps and engineering direction
• Mentor engineers and strengthen technical capability
• Collaborate across teams to deliver secure, scalable services

You will find out more about the role here - Position Description


Ko koe tēnei | About you
You're an experienced systems engineering leader with deep expertise across infrastructure, cloud technologies, and platform operations within complex enterprise environments. Combining strategic thinking with a hands-on approach, you're passionate about solving complex technical challenges, mentoring engineers, and driving continuous improvement through modern engineering and Agile practices.

You will bring:

• Proven experience in senior technical leadership roles
• Strong infrastructure, systems engineering, and cloud expertise
• Advanced problem-solving and troubleshooting capabilities
• Experience operating within large and complex technology environments
• Strong knowledge of Agile, DevOps, and continuous improvement practices
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, communication, and collaboration skills
• The ability to balance competing priorities in a fast-paced environment

You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori. You will also have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of Te Tiriti o Waitangi as it applies in the public service.


Mō mātou | About us
The Chief Technology Office (CTO) is a strategic business enabler within NZTA, providing the digital skills, capabilities, platforms and leadership needed to support our operational performance, regulatory responsibilities and future transport vision.

The CTO helps ensure our digital investments, platforms and services align with organisational priorities and deliver value across NZTA. It plays an important role in enabling efficient service delivery, improving customer experience, managing risk and supporting long-term planning.

As part of Te Aukaha | Digital, you'll contribute to improving our services and decision-making and providing modern, fit-for-purpose digital, information and technology solutions for our people, partners and customers.

The Principal System Engineer supports the smooth operation and enhancement of digital platforms while contributing to system development. Responsibilities include assisting in platform management, implementing features, focusing on automation, and collaborating across departments to meet business needs. The role requires technical skills, a willingness to learn, and hands-on development experience.

Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return
Play a pivotal role in shaping the future of NZTA’s technology platforms, influencing enterprise-wide engineering direction while growing technical capability and delivering meaningful outcomes for New Zealanders.

In addition, you'll benefit from:

• Flexible working arrangements that support work-life balance
• Five weeks annual leave
• Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for permanent employees
• Professional development and career growth opportunities
• A collaborative and inclusive culture committed to delivering meaningful outcomes for New Zealanders

If you enjoy solving complex technical challenges, mentoring others, and driving continuous improvement through modern engineering practices, we'd love to hear from you.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply
Please click Apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

18 November 2026

For further information, email: [email protected]

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.