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 Train (ART). 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. Your knowledge of HRIS systems such as Workday would be highly beneficial, along with a genuine interest in people services and improving employee experiences  
 

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. 

• Strong skills in assessing and mitigating risks associated with system architecture decisions. 

• Proven ability to align system architecture decisions with overall business goals and objectives. 

• Proficiency with Agile methodologies and continuous delivery principles, 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. 

• Commitment to embodying Auckland Council’s behaviours, supporting inclusivity, adaptability, and health and safety responsibilities. 

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