Simple Machines is a leading independent boutique technology firm with a global presence, including teams in Sydney, New Zealand, London, Poland and San Francisco. We specialise in creating technology solutions at the intersection of Data Engineering, Software Engineering and AI.
We are a team of creative engineers and technologists dedicated to unleashing the potential of data in new and impactful ways. We design and build bespoke data platforms and unique software products, create and deploy intelligent systems, and bring engineering expertise to life by transforming data into actionable insights and tangible outcomes. We work with enterprises, scale-ups, and government to turn messy, high-value data into products, platforms, and decisions that actually move the needle.
We don't do generic. We build things that matter
We engineer data to life™.
Requirements
The Role
The
Senior Data/Software Engineer
at Simple Machines is a dynamic, hands-on role focused on building real-time data pipelines and implementing data mesh architectures to enhance client data interactions. This position blends deep technical expertise in modern data engineering methods with a client-facing consulting approach, enabling clients to effectively manage and use their data. Within a team of top-tier engineers, the role includes developing greenfield data solutions that deliver tangible business outcomes across various environments.
We value adaptability and strong engineering fundamentals over narrow specialisation. Whether your background is in data engineering, software engineering, or both, what matters most is that you're a sharp problem-solver who can pick up new tools and technologies quickly. If you're a strong software engineer looking to move into the data and AI space, this is an ideal opportunity to make that transition with the support of an experienced team around you.
What You'll Do
Design and build data platforms, pipelines, and integrations tailored to each client's environment and objectives.
Develop batch and real-time data processing solutions at scale.
Work directly with clients to understand their requirements, shape expectations, and advise on best practices for data architecture and engineering.
Rapidly learn and adapt to new cloud platforms, tools, and frameworks as projects demand.
Help client teams build capability by sharing knowledge and establishing good engineering practices.
Contribute to security, governance, and quality across the solutions you deliver.
What You Bring
Strong data or software engineering fundamentals. You write clean, well-tested, production-quality code.
Proficiency in multiple programming languages, ideally including Python.
Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, and/or Azure) and comfort working with cloud-native services.
Strong experience with SQL, databases and/or data warehouses, data modelling, and data storage patterns.
Exposure to containerisation, CI/CD, and infrastructure-as-code concepts.
Excellent communication skills. You can translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders, understand client needs, and shape realistic expectations.
A curious, adaptable mindset. You enjoy learning new technologies and thrive in varied project environments.
Experience
5+ years of professional experience in data engineering, software engineering, or a closely related field.
Consulting or professional services experience is a bonus, but not essential - we're happy to help you develop those skills if you have strong communication skills.
Degree or equivalent experience in computer science or a related field.
Why Simple Machines
Benefits
Why Simple Machines
Highly competitive salary.
A supportive, collaborative team of smart, experienced engineers who genuinely enjoy working together
Hybrid working, with flexibility to work from home with regular collaboration in our award-winning office in central Christchurch.
Free team lunches provided three times a week, plus a snack bar.
Varied, interesting work across industries — no two projects are the same.
Continuous learning at the cutting edge of data engineering and AI.