Solutions Architect

Role overview

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is seeking a Solutions Architect to help shape and deliver practical solution architecture across a range of technology initiatives. This position is centered on the Plant Health Environment Capability (PHEC) programme, supporting the design of foundational technology systems for a new laboratory capability being built in Mt Albert.

You will work closely with business partners, technical specialists, vendors, and service providers to create solution designs that are fit for purpose, aligned with organisational priorities, and ready for delivery. The role calls for a hands-on professional who can balance architecture quality with delivery urgency, while giving careful attention to data, privacy, and security requirements in a public sector environment.

This is a full-time fixed-term position through to March 2029. The role is based in Wellington or Auckland.

Salary band: BTIS – C, ranging from $130,021 to $165,000, depending on skills and experience.

What you will do

• Create, update, and clearly communicate solution architecture designs.
• Support the delivery of solution designs for large, high-priority programmes and initiatives.
• Collaborate constructively with business and technical stakeholders across the organisation.
• Develop trusted working relationships with internal teams, vendors, and service providers.
• Present and defend architectural choices through MPI architecture governance forums.
• Explain complex technical ideas in simple, plain language for varied audiences.
• Apply architectural thinking across different platforms, technologies, and domains.
• Use strong written and verbal communication to support decision-making and delivery.
• Bring initiative, judgement, and an outcome-focused approach to your work.
• Apply knowledge of software development practices and technology lifecycles.

What we are looking for

We are looking for an experienced Solutions Architect with a strong track record of delivering complex architecture solutions. You should have a solid technical base and broad exposure to areas such as cloud, infrastructure, data, or business applications, enabling you to design end-to-end solutions with confidence.

Experience in the New Zealand public sector is preferred, but private-sector candidates will also be considered if they can demonstrate a strong understanding of government expectations, including governance, privacy, and delivery discipline.

You should be a confident communicator who can build trust quickly, work independently, manage competing priorities, and stay effective in high-visibility environments. A practical mindset, adaptability, and professional credibility are important, along with a commitment to collaboration and meaningful public good outcomes.

Key capabilities

• Proven experience delivering solution architecture across multiple large and complex programmes.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work with both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to produce clear architecture models, artefacts, and transition states.
• Broad technical understanding across cloud, infrastructure, data, or enterprise applications.
• High initiative and accountability, with a self-starting approach.
• Comfort working independently and meeting deadlines under pressure.
• Practical judgment, adaptability, and strong professional presence.
• Experience across varied environments, with NZ public sector exposure considered an advantage.
• Exposure to Salesforce or similar enterprise platforms is highly desirable, though not essential.

Team and environment

You will join MPI’s Business Technology & Information Services (BT&IS) Architecture and Assurance function, working with experienced Solutions Architects across domain, portfolio, and programme architecture. The position sits within a dedicated PHEC programme architecture team and connects with a wider Wellington-based group that supports MPI’s broader technology landscape.

The team works across a modern and complex environment that includes M365, SharePoint Online, Exchange Online, Salesforce, and hybrid cloud services on AWS or Azure. The focus is on enabling efficient delivery of technology change by making the best use of these platforms and supporting a steady flow of important initiatives.

About MPI

The Ministry for Primary Industries works with New Zealand’s food and fibre sector to support trusted, high-value food and fibre products for the world.

Benefits

• Extra MPI leave days.
• Option to buy additional annual leave.
• Annual wellness payment.

Other information

MPI is committed to partnership under Te Tiriti o Waitangi and works closely with iwi, hapū, whānau, and hāpori.

The organisation welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and identities and aims to be a great place to work for everyone.

A cover letter is requested. It should outline your values, your interest in the role, the strengths and perspectives you bring, and any relevant experience gained inside or outside the workforce.

Applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain it.

Applications close at 11:59pm on Monday 29 June 2026.

For questions about the role, contact Sophie Hallett at MPI.

You do not need to meet every requirement to apply; MPI encourages applications from people who believe they could be a strong fit and offers development and learning opportunities.