Data Lead

Role overview

The Data Lead will serve as the primary technical expert for the organisation’s data platform, data engineering discipline, and business intelligence standards. Based within the Data and AI team and reporting to the Data & AI Manager, this role defines the architecture the team works to, safeguards the dependability of data assets, and provides direct technical guidance to two Analytics Engineers.

This is a senior hands-on specialist position rather than a people management role. The focus is on technical ownership: shaping the platform, setting and upholding standards, directing delivery, and ensuring the data environment remains ready for the organisation’s growing analytics and AI needs.

Key duties

• Take ownership of the current data platform design and guide its progression toward Databricks and the broader Azure data stack.
• Provide practical technical direction, code reviews, and coaching to Analytics Engineers on a day-to-day basis.
• Remain closely involved in the most complex pipeline development work, including the move from an on-premises SQL Server warehouse to the cloud.
• Build and support the certified Power BI dataset layer, along with data quality monitoring and alerting capabilities.
• Represent the technical side within the Data Governance Working Group and help ensure compliance with the Privacy Act, Public Records Act, and LGOIMA.

About you

You are an accomplished data engineering, analytics engineering, or data architecture professional who is comfortable staying hands-on while also lifting team capability. You are confident setting technical expectations, can translate complex concepts into clear language, and take pride in creating dependable platforms for the business.

What you need to bring

• Proven background in a senior data engineering, analytics engineering, or data architecture position.
• Advanced SQL capability covering transformation, data modelling, query tuning, and performance optimisation.
• Practical experience designing and delivering data pipelines with Azure Data Factory, dbt, or similar tools.
• Strong Power BI expertise, including semantic model design, DAX, and certified dataset creation.
• A recognised tertiary qualification in computer science, information technology, or equivalent practical experience, plus a full New Zealand driver licence.

What’s on offer

• Flexible working arrangements that support work-life balance.
• Coaching and professional development opportunities.
• Life insurance cover.
• Leave for wellbeing and volunteering.
• Three paid days off between Christmas and New Year.
• Two weeks of paid Partner’s Leave.
• Sick leave available from the first day of employment.
• Continued KiwiSaver contributions even during contribution suspension.
• Discounts with a range of local and national businesses.

About the organisation

Selwyn is New Zealand’s fastest-growing district, known for strong communities, a high quality of life, and a vibrant economy. The Council works alongside residents to deliver services and facilities that help the district continue to grow and thrive.

The head office is located in Rolleston, about 25 km from Christchurch, offering a family-friendly lifestyle, great local amenities, and easy access to Canterbury’s ski fields, rivers, and hills.

The organisation’s values are: Be a good human, Be brave - Think differently, Better together, Make it happen for Selwyn.

The Council respects Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to working with its Treaty partner to meet its obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Additional information

This opportunity is a full-time, onsite position based in Rolleston, Canterbury, New Zealand. The role is intended for a senior technical practitioner who will contribute expertise directly rather than through formal people management. No salary, vacancy count, or start date was specified in the source.