Solutions Architect

Job Type: Permanent | Full Time

Location: Christchurch, New Zealand

Job Category: IT

• Lead solution design across complex digital initiatives
• Join a purpose-led organisation serving Waitaha Canterbury
• Flexible working and professional development opportunities

Kaunihera Taiao ki Waitaha │ About Environment Canterbury

At Environment Canterbury, we're working together to shape a thriving and resilient Canterbury for current and future generations.

As The Regional Council For Waitaha Canterbury, We Care For The Region's Air, Land, Water, And Communities. Working Alongside Mana Whenua Ngāi Tahu, Stakeholders, And Communities, We Deliver Three Essential Services

• Environmental Regulation and Protection
• Community Preparedness and Response to Hazards
• Public Transport

As Canterbury continues to grow and change, so do we. We operate in a dynamic environment, responding to evolving legislation, policy, and community needs while continuing to deliver for our communities, partners, and te taiao (the environment). Adapting to change, embracing new opportunities, and finding better ways of working are all part of creating great outcomes for Canterbury.

Kōrero mō te Tūranga | About the Role

We're looking for an experienced Solutions Architect to help shape and deliver technology solutions that support our strategic direction and organisational outcomes.

Working across a diverse portfolio of projects, you'll partner with business leaders, subject matter experts, project teams, vendors, and technical specialists to design innovative, secure, and scalable solutions.

This is an influential role where you'll provide architectural leadership from concept through to delivery, ensuring solutions align with our enterprise architecture roadmap and digital strategy.

Key Responsibilities Include

• Design end-to-end solution architecture and high-level solution designs
• Lead architecture decisions for complex business and technology initiatives
• Ensure solutions align with enterprise architecture standards and strategy
• Guide project delivery teams and vendors to achieve successful outcomes
• Contribute to the growth and maturity of our architecture practice and digital capability

For more information on this role, please refer to the job description at the bottom of the advert.

Mōu │ About You

You're a strategic thinker who enjoys solving complex challenges and connecting business needs with practical technology solutions. You can confidently engage with stakeholders at all levels, translate technical concepts into clear business language, and build strong relationships across a diverse organisation. Equally comfortable influencing strategy and supporting delivery, you'll bring a collaborative approach and a genuine passion for creating better outcomes through technology.

Mātau ā-Wheako | Experience

Role

Ideally, you’ll have a tertiary qualification in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline with at least five years' experience in a technical leadership role designing and delivering business software solutions. You’ll also have:

• Experience in a Solution Architect or similar architecture-focused position
• Strong understanding of cloud technologies, networking, security, and enterprise applications
• Experience with architecture frameworks and modelling approaches such as TOGAF, ArchiMate, or UML
• Experience working in agile delivery environments
• Experience designing and implementing enterprise-scale business software solutions
• Strong solution architecture expertise across applications, data, technology, and business domains
• Knowledge of cloud-based platforms, SaaS, PaaS, and modern architectural patterns
• Experience designing secure, integrated, and data-centric solutions
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence diverse stakeholders

Ngā hua o te Mahi i te Kaunihera Taiao ki Waitaha |

Working at Environment Canterbury

We're a values-led organisation, and our values shape how we work, make decisions, and support each other every day.

• Kaitiakitanga (Stewardship) We make good decisions today for a better tomorrow.
• Pononga (Integrity) – we act honestly, take responsibility and o what we say.
• Manaakitanga (People First) - we put people first and treat everyone with care and respect.
• Whanaungatanga (Collaboration) – We build strong relationships and achieve more together.
• Māiatanga (Can Do)- We are brave solution focussed and make things happen.

Our values guide the way we work and shape our workplace culture. Throughout the recruitment process, you'll have the opportunity to share examples of how your experiences and approach align with these values.

We know that diverse perspectives, experiences, and ways of thinking help us make better decisions and achieve better outcomes for our communities and environment. That's why we're committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and able to contribute.

We're also on a journey to become a Treaty partner of excellence. We support our people to grow their confidence and capability in te ao Māori and encourage the use of kaupapa Māori, mātauranga Māori, and te reo Māori in our everyday mahi. Wherever you are on your journey, you'll be welcomed and supported.

Ko ētahi atu kōrero | Additional Information

Apply directly by completing the online application form and submitting your CV and cover letter.

Applications close Wednesday 11 November.

We welcome your application and encourage you to apply early. To keep recruitment moving, we review applications as we receive them and may begin interviews before the closing date. The advertising period may be shortened as the process progresses.

To be considered for this opportunity, candidates must have the legal right to work in New Zealand at the time of application and hold work rights that will enable them to fulfil the full term of employment.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete an interview process, reference checks, and a criminal history check. Additional background checks may be required depending on the nature of the role.

If you're excited about this role but don't meet every requirement in the position description, we still encourage you to apply.

Me mahi tahi tātou │ Together we can