Data Engineer

• Use your expertise - design, build and deliver trusted data products
• Ideal for someone who is curious, collaborative, and eager to grow their data expertise
• Supportive and forward looking environment - engage with teams across the organisation
• Full-time, permanent position based in any NZTA office location

Play a key role in delivering trusted, high‑quality data products that support safer, more connected and thriving communities across New Zealand.

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

As a Data Engineer, you will support key functions within the Data Chapter—designing, building and delivering trusted data products that enable analytics, decision‑making and innovation across NZTA. You’ll work closely with programme, project, and business teams to understand their data needs, then transform complex data sources into structured, high-quality products ready for use across the organisation.

This role is perfect for someone who is curious, collaborative, and eager to grow their data engineering expertise in a supportive and forward‑looking environment. Key tasks include

• Engaging with teams across the business to understand their data requirements and designing and developing structured components that meet their needs
• Performing data wrangling and manipulation across structured and unstructured sources
• Documenting data processes, schemas, rules and structures
• Partnering with Digital and business teams to align with data standards and objectives
• Working with Data Platform teams to productionise new data models
• Sharing knowledge, building relationships and contributing to team success

Find out more about the role: Position Description. Appointment salary is between $120,000 and $131,000 commensurate with skills and experience.

Ko koe tēnei | About you

We’re looking for someone with:

• Proven experience in data engineering in a complex environment
• Strong understanding of data engineering concepts, modelling and design
• Experience translating business needs into technical solutions
• Exposure to Azure, Databricks, and modern data & analytics platforms
• Skills in SQL, R or Python (AWS knowledge a bonus)
• Excellent problem solving, communication and relationship building skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• A customer focused, adaptable and growth-minded approach

Preferred qualifications include:

• A relevant bachelor’s degree (Computer Science, Data Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems or similar)
• Azure/Databricks certifications related to engineering, architecture, or analytics

Mō mātou | About Us

At NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, we’re committed to delivering great outcomes for New Zealanders—now and for the future. Within Te Aukaha – Digital, we deliver modern, fit‑for‑purpose digital and data solutions that make it easier for our people and partners to do their best work. You’ll join a team that is future‑focused, collaborative, and passionate about enabling digital transformation across the organisation

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

You’ll join a team that values wellbeing, collaboration, and courage. We offer:

• A competitive salary and benefits package
• 5 weeks annual leave
• Free Life, Income Protection, and Critical Illness Insurance package
• Flexible working arrangements (role dependent)

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

22 March 2026

For further information, email: careers@nzta.govt.nz

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.