Senior Solution Architect

• Lead solution architecture blueprints for one of our major technology platforms
• Influence design principles and technology roadmaps across the platform
• Wellington based Permanent opportunity

Join a high-impact architecture practice where your technology leadership will shape the future of the platform. This is a strategic role for someone who thrives in complexity, inspires others, and delivers value through robust, scalable solutions.

About our team | Mō te tīma

Every week, around 1.4 million New Zealanders count on MSD for income support and services to connect with work, housing and better lives for their families.

Our Technology group provides the technologies, innovation and expertise that enable MSD staff and partners to deliver these essential services, today and into the future.

We’re driving a once in a lifetime transformation of services for New Zealanders. The group is a key enabler of this change bringing together strategic thinkers, technology specialists and delivery leaders to design solutions and deliver change while keeping vital services running reliably every day.

About the role | Mō te tūnga

As a Senior Solution Architect, you’ll play a senior role in the team and be responsible for leading the development of complex, mission-critical solutions.

You’ll work closely with the Senior Domain Architect, Platform Manager, and Practice Lead to establish design principles and ensure alignment with enterprise strategy.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead solution architecture for complex and high-value projects
• Translate user requirements into scalable, value-driven solutions
• Establish and promote design principles, patterns, and standards
• Ensure reuse of existing capabilities aligned with the technology roadmap
• Identify and mitigate solution-related risks across project teams
• Collaborate across IST and with other Architects for integrated delivery 

We’re committed to creating a workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. Diverse perspectives strengthen our mahi, and we value the unique contributions everyone brings to the team.

Please contact us if there is any support that we can provide to ensure the recruitment process is accessible to you. 

What you bring | Ōu pūmanawatanga

• Deep subject matter expertise across at least one of the following domains:
   - Client Applications 
       - Sub-domains: Client Management, Payments and Debt, Integration 
       - Associated technologies: SalesForce, Merative Cúram, SWIFT, Java, Mulesoft, APIM 
   - Corporate Applications 
      - Sub-domains: Financials, Human Resources, Knowledge 
      - Associated technologies: Oracle, SAP, M365 Sharepoint 
• Proven leadership in architecture within large, complex environments
• Deep experience in Agile delivery and enterprise software engineering
• Proven experience in developing technology strategies, runways, and roadmaps
• Strong advisory capability in high-pressure, multi-priority settings
• Subject matter expertise in relevant product families or technologies
• Excellent communication skills including written skills
• A passion for mentoring and developing others
• Strategic thinker with rigorous analytical ability
• Politically savvy with strong influencing and relationship skills 
• Curious about emerging technologies and committed to quality

Position Description | He Whakaahuatanga Tūnga

A copy of the position description can be found here. Senior Solution Archtect position description.

Salary | Utu-ā-tau

A salary offer will be based on the preferred candidate’s skills and experience and our team relativities.  

Applications close | Ka kati ngā tono hei te: Wednesday 22 July 2026.

About us | Mō mātou

The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) is a people-centred organisation. We’re in communities across the motu, working with partners to help New Zealanders be safe, strong and independent.

We provide social policy advice to government, and assistance including income, employment and housing support to people of all ages, families, whānau and communities.

As a Te Tiriti o Waitangi partner, we are committed to supporting and enabling Māori, whānau, hapū, Iwi and communities to realise their own potential and aspirations.

Our people are as diverse as the communities we serve. We care about the wellbeing and success of our people and provide a supportive and inclusive working environment where people can thrive and be who they are.

How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono

Before you submit your application, please take a moment to review our guidance to understand how AI can best support your application. Candidate Guidance - Responsible AI use in recruitment

To apply, click the 'Apply Now' button to upload your CV, cover letter and complete the online application form.

Note: Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process. Please highlight how your skills and experience relate to the key responsibilities listed in the position description and job advertisement.

All applications must be made online. If this is not possible or if you have any queries, please contact us at jobs@msd.govt.nz

Internal MSD Employees – please apply through your myHR portal at work. This will ensure that your myHR employee profile is visible as internal candidate.

Joining us | Ko te hono mai

Joining MSD means being part of a whānau that celebrates the diversity each individual represents.

We show manaaki, we care about the wellbeing and success of people and want everyone to thrive and be who they are in a supportive and inclusive working environment. We work together to make a difference for communities while doing the right thing with integrity. You can find out more about our values here.

If you have any support or accessibility requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.