AI Solutions Engineer

AI Solutions Engineer at Tonkin + Taylor

At Tonkin + Taylor, we're a team of engineers, scientists, and innovators dedicated to building a better future through sustainable, tech-driven solutions. As we advance our digital and AI journey, we are seeking an AI Solutions Engineer for a 12-month fixed-term project, with a strong view to extend this term. This opportunity is ideally based in Auckland or Christchurch, though we are open to discussing other locations. This is a fantastic role for someone passionate about collaborating with stakeholders to transform innovative ideas into intelligent, real-world systems that deliver significant impact.

The Opportunity

You will play a central role in shaping Tonkin + Taylor’s AI strategy. This involves close collaboration with consultants, engineers, and corporate teams to identify opportunities, design, and deliver high-impact AI solutions. You'll be instrumental in bringing emerging technologies such as large language models, automation, and intelligent agents to fruition. Your contributions will enable Tonkin + Taylor to leverage data and AI to enhance client outcomes, significantly boost operational efficiency, and pioneer new ways of working, all while strictly adhering to ethical and responsible AI practices.

Key Responsibilities (Kei te hiahia mātou ki ōu pūkenga | We want your skills)

• Partner with teams across the business to identify, design, and deliver high-impact AI outcomes.
• Assess business needs and pinpoint high-ROI AI opportunities that align with strategic goals.
• Build and refine scalable, secure AI systems, ranging from LLM-enabled tools and automation platforms to advanced data-driven insights.
• Develop quick-turn prototypes and skillfully evolve them into robust, production-ready solutions.
• Translate complex business challenges into clear technical execution plans that yield measurable results.
• Share best practices and actively contribute to upskilling teams throughout Tonkin + Taylor.
• Contribute to the development of Tonkin + Taylor’s AI operating model, governance frameworks, and Centres of Technical Excellence.
• Demonstrate proficient use of software engineering best practices including Git version control, mandatory code reviews, automated testing, CI/CD pipelines, reproducible environments, and infrastructure as code.
• Manage operational robustness, encompassing secure coding standards, change request processes, and comprehensive, well-documented runbooks.

What You'll Bring (Nā tōu rourou | What you'll bring)

• 5+ years of experience in software engineering, with at least 3 years specifically delivering AI or automation projects that have demonstrated measurable business value.
• An in-depth understanding of AI and Machine Learning frameworks, Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Large Language Models (LLMs), and other emerging technologies. Exposure to AI agents is a significant advantage.
• Proven experience in designing and deploying AI solutions on leading cloud platforms such as Azure, AWS, or GCP.
• An agile mindset, coupled with comfort in balancing speed, reliability, and ethical considerations in development.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills, effective with both technical and non-technical audiences.
• A tertiary qualification in Computer Science, Data Science, Software Engineering, or a similar relevant field.

Why Tonkin + Taylor? (Why T+T?)

At Tonkin + Taylor, we believe people thrive when purpose, innovation, and community align. You will join a workplace where curiosity is actively encouraged, collaboration is highly valued, and you are fully supported to grow your career and skills.

• Grow and explore: Stretch your capabilities and continuously learn through our Digital and AI Centres of Excellence.
• Do work that matters: Build AI solutions with tangible impact across Aotearoa and beyond.
• Balance built in: Enjoy flexibility, wellbeing initiatives, and a culture deeply focused on sustainability and purpose.
• Be part of something iconic: Join a trusted Kiwi brand renowned across Australasia for engineering excellence.
• Small perks, big smiles: Benefit from good coffee, healthy snacks, and a friendly, social office environment.
• Community and connection: Participate in our active social club, wellness events, and engaging team activities.
• Support for every stage: Take advantage of six months fully paid parental leave for primary caregivers, plus additional family-focused benefits.
• Reward and recognition: Receive competitive pay, excellent benefits, and the unique opportunity to participate in our employee ownership programme.

Key skills/competency

• AI Solutions Design
• Machine Learning (ML) Frameworks
• Large Language Models (LLMs)
• Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
• Cloud AI Platforms (Azure, AWS, GCP)
• Software Engineering Best Practices
• Git Version Control
• CI/CD Pipelines
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Ethical AI Practices