Data Platform Lead

High impact, strategic contract role taking on technical leadership over a major Databricks platform! Why You’d Like It Looking for a high-impact contract where you can sink your teeth into a modern Databricks environment? This is a cracking opportunity for a seasoned technical lead to step into a high-visibility role, sort out governance roadblocks, and drive real value directly with a major public sector client. The Story Driven by steady growth and rising demand for sophisticated data solutions, this practice is expanding its footprint across New Zealand. They are investing heavily in top-tier talent to help clients build modern, AI-ready data foundations. This initial 3-month contract is a critical positioning role designed to bridge the gap between complex transformation goals and practical, high-quality technical delivery while long-term capability is established. Company Profile Operating as an established trans-Tasman transformation partner, this organisation solves real-world challenges across cloud, data, AI, and business applications. Rather than pushing standard, off-the-shelf templates, they focus on tailoring tech solutions that unlock lasting value. The team culture is collaborative, down-to-earth, and pragmatic; putting genuine care into both client outcomes and their people. Your Role As a Data Platform Lead, you will take hands-on technical ownership of the Databricks platform and drive strategy without the overhead of managing direct reports. You will hit the ground running to tackle backlog priorities, resolve governance challenges, and build seamless client alignment. Take full ownership and management of the core Databricks platform. Resolve access and governance bottlenecks to deliver quick, meaningful wins. Work directly with key public sector stakeholders to translate business needs into technical solutions. Triage and progress high-priority backlog items efficiently. Establish robust best practices that set the platform up for long-term stability and success. Benefits Competitive Rate: $130-$140 per hour + GST. Flexible Hybrid Setup: Enjoy a balanced schedule with 2-3 days on-site in either Auckland or Wellington. High Visibility: Lead from the front on an enterprise platform where your work makes an immediate impact. Great Team Culture: Work alongside a supportive, highly skilled trans-Tasman team. Your Fit You are a senior platform specialist with serious, hands-on Databricks expertise. You bring a pragmatic, solution-focused mindset and excel at translating technical concepts into clear conversations for client stakeholders. While people management isn't part of this gig, your strong technical leadership will naturally guide the platform forward. Exposure to Microsoft Fabric is a handy bonus, but your deep platform experience and confidence in navigating client environments are what will really set you up for success. Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand. If you are not a NZ Citizen, you must have the right of permanent residence or a valid work visa. #J-18808-Ljbffr