Job Description

Kaihoahoa Whare: Principal Architect

Do you want to be part of a small but great architecture team with an active role in making a difference for New Zealanders?

If you're looking for your “why”, then come and join us at TEC. We truly believe in the transformational benefits of education and vocational training and as a result every year we invest $3.8 billion in tertiary education and training and seek to lift the aspirations and skill base of all New Zealanders. The TEC's approach and work is changing constantly, and solid architecture is a key part of the success of this strategy. In this role you can help shape our technology direction and be part of this change.

This is a strictly Wellington-based role. 

He angitūtanga: About the Role

Reporting to the Manager Programmes, Architecture & Testing, you will play a pivotal role in providing expert knowledge and advice on how technologies and data enable the goals of both the TEC and the tertiary education system.

• Bring an enterprise and strategic lens to all initiatives to ensure individual pieces of work are integrated and help TEC achieve its long-term goals.
• Facilitate informed data and technology choices within TEC and represent TEC in sector and cross-agency forums.
• Develop enterprise architecture principles, standards, and guidelines to drive TEC projects.
• Provide leadership in developing effective technology-based solutions that meet business needs as we move towards our target state.

He kōrero mōu: What we are looking for:

This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced Principal Architect who is looking to provide leadership within the architecture practice and to TEC through expert advice and guidance.

You bring the following:

• Expert knowledge of architecture frameworks, methods, principles and patterns
• Broad architecture skills and experience in several domains including depth in at least one key domain such as cloud, security or data.
• Provide architectural direction and leadership to other architects.
• Excellent relationship management skills - you can work well a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Great communication skills - able to engage with senior business stakeholders and translate complex technical concepts into clear, accessible language for diverse audiences.
• Build and maintain in-depth understanding of how technology and data supports functions and processes across the tertiary education system.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What's in it for you

• Three additional (TEC Days) leave days
• A range of benefits including flexible working options, a wellness programme and the ability to purchase extra leave.
• A motivated and supportive manager, keen to make the most of your skill set
• Reduced premiums through our Health Insurance Group Scheme
• A focus on Career development and internal opportunities
• At TEC we are committed to supporting a range of flexible working arrangements to help staff manage their work and personal commitments, we also expect team members to be in the office at least three days per week to help collaboration.

The salary range for this position starts from $140,505 up to $165,300 + 3% KiwiSaver, depending on demonstrable skills and experience. If your salary expectations are outside of this range, we would still welcome an application from you.  

Me pēhea te tuku tono: How to Apply

To view the job description and/or apply for the role, please click ‘Apply For This Job' or visit the TEC Careers Portal.

If this sounds like you, please apply now for this great opportunity with your tailored Cover Letter and CV, we welcome your application.

The closing date for this role is Wednesday 25 June 2025 at 11:59pm. For more information or if you have any questions, please contact hr@tec.govt.nz.

Applicants must have the ability to obtain and maintain the legal right to work in New Zealand.

Prior to the Tertiary Education Commission confirming any offer of employment, pre-employment checks will be undertaken including criminal conviction history and reference checking as a minimum.

The TEC is an equal opportunity employer and committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. Your unique talents and experience will help us deliver exceptional services to New Zealand. We look forward to your application