AI Lead Engineer

Tau ake rā te moana nei, e papaki kau ana ki te ākau tangata, kakenga waka ka mauru te tohu ki te arearenga o Mauao, he pou herenga mōu, he pou hononga mōu, kia herea ki te tika, kia herea ki te pono. Kia mau, kia ita, kia ū – haumi e, hui e, tāiki e!

Te Tūranga | About the role

Help shape how AI transforms a city.

Artificial Intelligence is changing the way organisations work, but the real challenge isn't adopting the technology—it's turning potential into practical outcomes.

At Tauranga City Council, we're investing in AI, automation and modern digital solutions that help our people work smarter, improve customer experiences and deliver better outcomes for our community. We're looking for an AI Lead Engineer who can help make that vision a reality.

This is a rare opportunity to join an organisation that is actively embracing AI and building capability for the future. You'll work across intelligent automation, AI agents, integrations, cloud platforms and modern software development practices to design and deliver solutions that solve real-world problems. From proof of concept through to production, you'll help shape how AI is used across the organisation while working alongside a growing team of digital specialists.

You'll have the freedom to innovate, experiment and influence technical direction, while ensuring solutions remain secure, scalable and focused on delivering meaningful business value. If you're excited by emerging technologies and enjoy building practical solutions that people actually use, this is an opportunity to make a significant impact.

• Design, build and deploy AI-enabled applications, intelligent agents and automation solutions that support real business outcomes.
• Work across modern cloud platforms, integrations, APIs and emerging technologies to deliver innovative solutions.
• Help shape the future of AI capability, standards and best practice across Council.

Ngā Pukenga | What you'll need to succeed

You'll be a technically strong engineer who enjoys solving complex problems and turning ideas into working solutions. You're naturally curious, enjoy learning new technologies and can confidently move between technical conversations and business challenges.

To succeed in this role, you'll bring:

• Experience designing, developing and delivering modern software solutions.
• Strong knowledge of cloud technologies, APIs, integrations and contemporary development practices.
• Experience or a strong interest in AI, automation, intelligent agents and emerging digital technologies.
• The ability to translate business challenges into practical, scalable technical solutions.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across technical and non-technical teams.
• A continuous improvement mindset and a passion for innovation.
• Most importantly, you'll be excited by the opportunity to help shape a growing AI capability and create solutions that make a measurable difference for both Council and the wider community.

Tō Tātou Kaunihera | About Tauranga City Council

At Tauranga City Council, our work has a direct impact on the city and the people who call it home. From planning for growth to delivering everyday services, our teams help shape a city we can all be proud of.

If you're collaborative, forward-thinking, and community minded, you'll find meaningful work and opportunity here.

We offer a supportive and flexible workplace, with benefits including 5 weeks' annual leave, flexible hours, work from home options, wellbeing initiatives and career development opportunities.

You can find out more about working at Tauranga City Council here.

Te Tukanga | How to apply

To submit your application, please apply online, as we are unable to accept applications via email.

If you have specific questions about the role, please contact the Cheryl Pome’e, Cheryl.Pome'e@tauranga.govt.nz .

Applications close: 7th August 2026

We're committed to building a diverse team that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those living with disabilities. If you need any support or adjustments to take part in our recruitment process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at recruitment@tauranga.govt.nz.

You must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.

Tauranga City Council does not accept unsolicited contact or applications from recruitment agencies. We will not pay fees or commissions related to unsolicited contact.

Job Description: AI Lead Engineer