Network and Observability Manager

Location: Wellington
Discipline: Government
Job type: Permanent
Salary: 117000 to 152000
Contact name: Shane Rangihaeata

Contact email: shane@placeme.nz
Job ref: 1666502
Published: 24 days ago
Networks & Observability Manager
  • Location: Wellington preferred (Open to NZ remote/hybrid)
  • Work Type: Permanent, Full-time
  • Flexibility: Hybrid setup (2 days office / 3 days WFH)
WHAT
We are looking for a Technical Lead / Senior Engineer to take ownership of a newly created domain spanning Enterprise Networking and Observability/Monitoring.

Splitting your focus 50/50, you will provide technical direction, ensure operational resilience across data centre and multi-cloud environments, and lead/mentor a dedicated team of 3 engineering staff.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Networking (50%): Oversee operational enterprise networking across on-premise data centre and multi-cloud environments.
  • Observability & Monitoring (50%): Lead hands-on observability practices (metrics, logs, traces) and help guide an upcoming RFP implementation for new enterprise cloud monitoring tools.
  • Leadership: Mentor a team of 3 staff, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement.
  • Vendor & Commercial Oversight: Manage vendor relationships across key infrastructure partners and support commercial processes.
WHY
Following a recent team split between Operations and Networking, this role was formed to bring dedicated focus to the intersection of network engineering and modern observability.

If you thrive in an environment where you have high technical autonomy, direct input into platform selection, and the ability to drive proactive, automated operations—this is the opportunity for you.

What’s on Offer:
  • Autonomy & Impact: Direct leadership of a core domain reporting to the Infrastructure Operations Manager
  • Flexibility: Enjoy a balanced hybrid model (2 days in-office, 3 days WFH).
  • Modernisation: Drive the shift from reactive monitoring to predictive, automated observability.
WHO
We are seeking an experienced technical lead or senior engineer who brings a balance of enterprise networking expertise, modern observability knowledge, and team leadership capability.

What You’ll Bring:
  • Dual Technical Expertise: Proven background in enterprise networking and hands-on enterprise/cloud observability tools.
  • Leadership Mindset: Experience leading, mentoring, or guiding technical team members.
  • Operational & Commercial Acumen: Familiarity with vendor management, incident response escalations, and platform evaluation.
  • Adaptability: High reliability, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to translate complex technical needs into operational strategy.