Senior Data Engineer

• Lead enterprise data solutions using Azure and cloud-native tools
• Drive cross-domain data integration and governance frameworks
• Enable AI, ML, and analytics with scalable data pipelines

Be Bold. Belong. Be More.

At Southern Cross University, we do things differently, and so can you.

A career with us is more than you might expect. Yes, it’s about the heart, connectedness and community you’d hope for in a regional university. But there’s also so much more. Our game changing Southern Cross Model brings a deeper, focused learning experience and our research is deeply connected to our regions, making a difference on a global scale. This is your chance to help us build something new and meaningful for our students, our communities and your career. To drive change, make a real impact, and thrive in a place as unique as you.

You can be good anywhere. Here, you can be great.

Your opportunity

Southern Cross University is undergoing a bold transformation to deliver smarter, data-driven services that empower learning, research, and community impact.

As part of this journey, we’re building a high-performing, future-ready data ecosystem to enable real-time decision-making, intelligent automation, and world-class analytics.

We are now seeking a Senior Data Engineer to lead the development of scalable data architectures, advanced integration pipelines, and cloud-first data platforms. This is a senior technical role offering the chance to shape data engineering strategy, mentor talented teams, and drive innovation across every university domain, from student experience to research impact.

Reporting to the Enterprise Architect, you will collaborate with AI Developers, Data Scientists, and cross-functional teams to deliver transformative data solutions that power the university’s digital future.

You will make an impact by:

• Designing and delivering robust data architectures and pipelines across university domains using Azure Data Factory, Databricks, Synapse, and SQL
• Leading the development of cross-platform integrations with enterprise systems like TechnologyOne, Microsoft Dynamics, Blackboard, and Teams
• Establishing data governance frameworks Data Modelling and data quality practices to ensure reliable, secure, and compliant data for analytics and operations
• Collaborating with AI and analytics teams to enable advanced data science, machine learning, and enterprise insights
• Driving data engineering innovation through the adoption of emerging tools, mentoring team members, and developing technical roadmaps

What you will bring

You’re a highly skilled and strategic data engineer with a passion for building scalable, cloud-native data platforms. You thrive in complex environments, lead by example, and are motivated by real-world impact and innovation.

To succeed in this role, you will also need:

• Ideally 8+ years in data engineering, including 3+ years in senior roles, and a degree in IT, Data Science, or a related field
• Expertise in modern data platforms including Azure Data Factory, Synapse Analytics, Databricks, and real-time streaming tools
• Strong programming skills in Python, SQL, and Scala, with deep knowledge of ETL/ELT, data modelling, and integration design
• Proven experience across enterprise systems such as TechnologyOne, Dynamics, Blackboard, with strong multi-domain data extraction and data migration skills
• Leadership in data governance and compliance, with the ability to mentor teams, drive data quality, and ensure privacy standards

Why Southern Cross University

SCU is proudly a regional university, young, small and vibrant. That means you’ll find more exposure, opportunity and ownership - to grow, achieve and build a career that means more. And you’ll do it alongside passionate people and leaders who go the extra mile to help you succeed. A career with us is about more than just work. It’s about place, community and the life you want to live. With three main campuses at the Gold Coast, Coffs Harbour and the Northern Rivers region of NSW, we’re integral to all these wonderful communities. Find your place and be more in this beautiful part of the world.

Your opportunity is:

• Full-time, continuing (permanent)
• Located at either Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450, Gold Coast, QLD 4225, or Lismore, NSW 2480. Relocation assistance is available, making it easier to join our regional communities
• The level of appointment will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications, skills and experience.

You will enjoy a range of perks designed to support your wellbeing, growth and work-life balance. For more information on our benefits and what it’s like to work at SCU, visit Why work at Southern Cross University?

Be more with Southern Cross University today

Southern Cross University values potential as much as experience. If you do not meet all the listed requirements but are excited about the role and confident you can contribute, we encourage you to apply or reach out for more information.

Applications close 11.30pm AEST 31 October 2025

Eligible applicants must have Australian or New Zealand citizenship, Australian permanent residency or current working rights in Australia for the entire duration of the appointment. Employer visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Applicants must apply online and attach a CV and cover letter responding to the selection criteria within the position description. Information to support you prepare your application is available on our website.

Southern Cross University celebrates the rich diversity of our regions and international community. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that welcomes and values people of all backgrounds. We encourage applications from people of all genders, ethnicities, ages, languages, sexual orientations, and people with disabilities. We are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process to ensure every candidate can fully participate. For any support through the recruitment process reach out to jobs@scu.edu.au.

Position description