Principal Digital Specialist - Solution Architect - Maritime Digital Transformation

Drive the Digital Architecture for New Zealand's Maritime and Geospatial Future Ready for a challenge? Our hydrographic team in LINZ is on a 4-year journey to upgrade and replace legacy hydrographic systems. This project is key to New Zealand and the safety of people at sea. You will be working with and advising on large datasets, AWS deployments, SaaS software, AI and the development of new solutions. Hydrographic experience isn't essential, we are looking for an architect who brings strong technical expertise, can collaborate well, and a focus on delivering effective solutions. The technology and data landscape is unique, interesting and challenging, and the people are great. Key Responsibilities Lead and be accountable for architecture in the application and data space for the Hydrography Team and Location Information. Collaborate with product owners and subject matter experts to develop robust application and cloud strategies. Design and execute migration plans for applications and data from legacy hosted services to AWS cloud infrastructure. Formulate long-term data management strategies to ensure interoperability and efficiency. Establish strategic partnerships with industry leaders and international bodies to drive innovation and growth. Design and execute the architecture and migration strategy for the programme, starting with the AWS re-platform for legacy hosted core services. Analyse technology options and provide clear recommendations on the most suitable delivery approach, whether custom build, COTS, or SaaS. Design and build proofs-of-concept to test and validate technical approaches, reducing risk before major investment is committed. Work with senior leadership to develop a realistic technology roadmap aligned with broader Location Information strategy and goals. Provide coaching and guidance to delivery squads, drawing on hands‑on experience with IaC, CI/CD and modern development practices. Skills and Experience Demonstrated experience operating at a senior or principal level, with a focus on IT architecture and development and a data‑centric systems approach. Extensive experience with AWS infrastructure, including the migration and operation of commercial solutions in cloud‑based environments. Proven solution architecture experience spanning integration, security, data management, and operational domains. A strong interest in open‑source technology and open data, with an appreciation of how these approaches can support innovation, interoperability, transparency, and reuse. Ability to balance technical rigour with pragmatic delivery across a multi‑year horizon. Proven ability to engage and communicate effectively with stakeholders at all organisational levels. You must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand. The expected appointing range for this role is $150,000 to $185,000 depending on skills and experience. Benefits Interesting work which impacts Aotearoa as we care for whenua, moana and arawai. Wellbeing allowance reimbursement. Ability to purchase additional leave. Reduced health insurance premiums. Diverse groups and networks. If eligible for paid parental leave, you will be entitled to a top‑up payment for the first 18 weeks of the 26 weeks. A minimum of four weeks and three days annual leave. Our Kia Toipoto Intentions – Public Service Gender, Māori, Pacific and Ethnic Pay Gap Action Plan ToitūTe Whenua is a diverse team of individuals with different experience and perspectives. This drives our culture and high performance. We know that people from underrepresented groups and women in particular don't apply for roles if they're not a 100% match, but we're not looking for perfection, we're looking for potential. As an inclusive and supportive employer, we value difference and want to encourage anyone interested to apply, regardless of whether you tick all the boxes or not. As an organisation we embrace diversity, encourage work life balance and have a flexible approach to the way we work which means you will quickly feel connected and valued. #J-18808-Ljbffr