Systems Architect

He angitūtanga: The opportunity  

Auckland Council Group Shared Services is going through some significant technology changes. We are moving technology into composable business components, updating aging technology to move forward into modern component systems with a strong focus on customer experience and data. Couple this with working across multiple entities to form shared services, work collaboratively for a stronger Auckland, this role provides the opportunity to help change Auckland for the better.  

He kōrero mōu: About you 

We are seeking an experienced Systems Architect to support the technical vision and architectural runway within our Agile Release Trains (ARTs). As a leader in the ART, you will ensure that technology solutions align with Auckland Council’s architectural strategy and support agile delivery. You will collaborate closely with Product Managers, Release Train Engineers, and Principal Architects to guide investment decisions, manage technical debt and risks, and provide technical leadership to Agile teams. Your role will be instrumental in fostering innovation, scalability, and continuous improvement across our technology landscape. 

This role is ideal for someone with a strong background in public sector environments, particularly those with regulatory experience. You’ll bring a deep understanding of complex business process modelling, rules engines, and decision automation, and be comfortable navigating composable architecture frameworks, API-first integration patterns, and event-driven architectures. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Define, communicate, and maintain the technical vision and architectural runway for the Agile Release Train (ART). 

• Lead technical decision-making and prioritisation alongside Product Managers and Release Train Engineers for large-scale investments. 

• Manage technical debt and risks, ensuring timely resolution and clarity. 

• Provide technical guidance to Agile teams, ensuring solutions are stable, scalable, and efficient. 

• Participate actively in ART events such as PI Planning and System Demos, integrating technical considerations. 

• Promote innovation and continuous improvement within Agile teams. 

• Embed Te Ao Māori principles, including basic te reo usage and tikanga, where appropriate. 

• Build and maintain strong internal relationships to effectively communicate progress and address challenges. 

Requirements 

Technical Expertise 

• Demonstrated ability to analyse complex problems, propose innovative solutions, and make decisions based on a thorough understanding of system requirements. 

• Experience in modular system design, connecting architecture to design and system implementation across multiple technologies to create end-to-end solutions. 

• Familiarity with master data management, case management, GIS and spatial systems, and field service systems is highly desirable. 

• Strong understanding of identity and access management, data protection, and privacy frameworks. 

• Proficiency in CI/CD pipelines, build and test automation, and release management. 

• Experience with SAFe/Agile methodologies, supporting technical runway and solution scalability. 

• Excellent documentation skills to communicate architectural decisions and technical strategy clearly. 

Interpersonal and Leadership Skills 

• Ability to establish and maintain strong internal relationships necessary to communicate progress and technical challenges effectively with senior stakeholders. 

• Strong collaboration skills to work closely with Principal Architects, Product Managers, Release Train Engineers, and Agile teams to ensure consistency and delivery of Technology Services commitments. 

• Strategic thinking and decision-making capability to prioritise investment and technical risks aligned with value outcomes. 

• Influential leadership style that guides and supports Agile teams through trust and mentorship without direct authority. 

• Adaptability and resilience in the face of change. ACG SS is undergoing significant technology transformation—modernising legacy systems into composable business components with a strong focus on customer experience and data-driven services. This includes working across multiple entities to form shared services and deliver a stronger, more unified Auckland. 

Qualifications and Experience 

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field. 

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in system architecture, preferably in SAFe or Agile environments. 

• At least 5 years’ experience leading technical teams and engaging with senior stakeholders. 

• Proven ability to translate complex business requirements into scalable architectural solutions. 

• Commitment to embedding Te Ao Māori principles in technology delivery. 

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer  

• Auckland Council is the largest local government council across Oceania, serving over 1.7 million people and contributing towards making Tāmaki Makaurau a world-class city.  

• We offer a range of employee benefits and proudly support flexible working options where possible.   

Help us make a difference to Tāmaki Makaurau.