Data Platform Solution Engineer - Cloud & AI Data Platform - New Zealand

📍 Job Overview

• Job Title: Data Platform Solution Engineer - Cloud & AI Data Platform - New Zealand
• Company: Microsoft
• Location: New Zealand
• Job Type: Full-Time
• Category: Solution Engineer - Data Platform
• Date Posted: July 30, 2025

🚀 Role Summary

• Key web technology aspect 1: Serve as a trusted technical advisor, guiding customers through secure and scalable solution design for Microsoft's cloud database and analytics stack.
• Key web technology aspect 2: Collaborate with engineering leaders and platform teams to drive meaningful impact and accelerate the Fabric Data Platform, including Azure Databases and Analytics.
• Key web technology aspect 3: Influence technical decisions and accelerate database and analytics migration into customers' deployment workflows.
• Key web technology aspect 4: Enjoy flexible work opportunities while helping customers modernize their data platform and realize the full value of Microsoft's platform.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role focuses on cloud and AI data platform solutions, requiring a strong understanding of databases, analytics, and cloud technologies. It offers an opportunity to work with cutting-edge projects and drive meaningful impact for enterprise customers.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

• Web technology responsibility 1: Guide customers through secure, scalable solution design for Microsoft's cloud database and analytics stack.
• Web technology responsibility 2: Collaborate with engineering leaders and platform teams to accelerate the Fabric Data Platform through hands-on engagements like Proof of Concepts, hackathons, and architecture workshops.
• Web technology responsibility 3: Influence technical decisions and accelerate database and analytics migration into customers' deployment workflows.
• Web technology responsibility 4: Help customers modernize their data platform and realize the full value of Microsoft's platform.
• Web technology responsibility 5: Build strong customer relationships and become a trusted advisor for data platform solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a balance of technical expertise and customer-facing skills. Strong communication and collaboration abilities are essential for success in this position.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. Relevant work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Experience: Proven experience (2-5 years) in a similar role, with a strong background in databases, analytics, and cloud technologies.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in cloud databases and analytics (Azure, AWS, or GCP)
• Strong understanding of data modeling, ETL/ELT processes, and data warehousing concepts
• Experience with data migration and integration tools
• Familiarity with AI and machine learning concepts
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Azure Databases and Analytics services
• Knowledge of data governance and security best practices
• Familiarity with Agile methodologies and DevOps practices
• Experience with customer-facing roles and solution selling

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a mix of technical depth and breadth. Candidates should have a strong foundation in databases and analytics, with a willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Specific web portfolio requirement 1: Demonstrate your expertise in cloud databases and analytics through case studies or projects that showcase your technical skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Specific web portfolio requirement 2: Highlight your experience with data migration and integration tools, and explain how you've used them to streamline data workflows.
• Specific web portfolio requirement 3: Showcase your understanding of data governance and security best practices, and explain how you've implemented them in previous projects.

Technical Documentation:

• Technical documentation requirement 1: Provide clear and concise documentation of your projects, including data models, ETL/ELT processes, and any relevant code snippets.
• Technical documentation requirement 2: Explain the challenges you faced during data migration and how you overcame them.
• Technical documentation requirement 3: Describe the data governance and security measures you implemented to protect sensitive data.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a portfolio is not explicitly required, providing relevant case studies and projects will help demonstrate your technical expertise and make a strong impression on potential employers.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The salary range for this role in New Zealand typically falls between NZD 100,000 and NZD 150,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. This estimate is based on market research and industry standards for similar roles in the region.

Benefits:

• Competitive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans
• Generous vacation and leave policies
• Employee stock purchase plan and other equity compensation programs
• Employee discounts on Microsoft products and services
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth

Working Hours: Full-time position with a standard workweek of 40 hours. Flexible work arrangements may be available, depending on the specific needs of the role and the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the salary range provided is an estimate, it's essential to research the specific benefits and compensation packages offered by Microsoft for this role, as they may vary depending on the location and the specific team you join.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Microsoft operates in the technology industry, with a focus on cloud computing, productivity, and business processes. As a Data Platform Solution Engineer, you'll work closely with teams developing and deploying cutting-edge data platform solutions.

Company Size: Microsoft is a large multinational corporation with over 180,000 employees worldwide. As a result, you'll have ample opportunities to collaborate with diverse teams and work on large-scale projects.

Founded: Microsoft was founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen. Today, it's one of the world's leading technology companies, with a strong focus on innovation and continuous learning.

Team Structure:

• Team size and specialization: The Data Platform team at Microsoft consists of various roles, including Solution Engineers, Product Managers, and Software Engineers. As a Solution Engineer, you'll work closely with these teams to drive customer success.
• Reporting structure and hierarchy: Solution Engineers typically report to a Solutions Manager or Director, who oversees the team's activities and ensures alignment with Microsoft's strategic goals.
• Cross-functional collaboration: You'll collaborate with various teams, including sales, marketing, and customer success, to deliver comprehensive data platform solutions that meet customer needs.

Development Methodology:

• Agile/Scrum methodologies: Microsoft uses Agile methodologies, such as Scrum, to manage projects and ensure timely delivery of high-quality solutions.
• Code review, testing, and quality assurance practices: Microsoft places a strong emphasis on code quality and testing. You'll work closely with software engineers to ensure that solutions meet Microsoft's high standards for performance, reliability, and security.
• Deployment strategies, CI/CD pipelines, and server management: Microsoft uses continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD) pipelines to automate the software delivery process. As a Solution Engineer, you'll work closely with DevOps teams to ensure seamless deployment and server management.

Company Website: Microsoft Careers

📝 Enhancement Note: Microsoft's company culture emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. As a Data Platform Solution Engineer, you'll have ample opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: This role is an intermediate to senior-level position, requiring a strong foundation in databases, analytics, and cloud technologies. As a Data Platform Solution Engineer, you'll work on complex projects and drive meaningful impact for enterprise customers.

Reporting Structure: Solution Engineers typically report to a Solutions Manager or Director, who oversees the team's activities and ensures alignment with Microsoft's strategic goals. You'll collaborate closely with various teams, including sales, marketing, and customer success, to deliver comprehensive data platform solutions.

Technical Impact: In this role, you'll guide customers through secure, scalable solution design and accelerate database and analytics migration into their deployment workflows. By helping customers modernize their data platform, you'll drive meaningful impact and enable them to realize the full value of Microsoft's platform.

Growth Opportunities:

• Growth opportunity 1: As you gain experience and demonstrate your expertise, you may have the opportunity to take on more complex projects or move into a management role within the Solutions team.
• Growth opportunity 2: Microsoft offers numerous training and development opportunities, allowing you to expand your skillset and stay up-to-date with the latest technologies.
• Growth opportunity 3: As a trusted technical advisor, you'll have the opportunity to influence technical decisions and shape the future of Microsoft's data platform offerings.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant growth opportunities, both in terms of technical expertise and career progression. By demonstrating your skills and making a strong impact, you can position yourself for success within Microsoft's organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Microsoft's offices are modern and collaborative, with a focus on open communication and knowledge sharing. As a Data Platform Solution Engineer, you'll work in a dynamic environment that encourages innovation and continuous learning.

Office Location(s): Microsoft has multiple offices in New Zealand, including Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. The specific office location for this role may vary depending on the team and the customer's needs.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative web development environment impact: You'll work closely with various teams, including sales, marketing, and customer success, to deliver comprehensive data platform solutions that meet customer needs.
• Development tools, multiple monitors, and testing devices available: Microsoft provides its employees with state-of-the-art hardware and software tools to ensure they can work efficiently and effectively.
• Web development team interaction and cross-functional collaboration opportunities: As a Solution Engineer, you'll have ample opportunities to collaborate with diverse teams and work on large-scale projects.

Work Schedule: Full-time position with a standard workweek of 40 hours. Flexible work arrangements may be available, depending on the specific needs of the role and the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Microsoft's work environment is dynamic and collaborative, with a strong emphasis on knowledge sharing and continuous learning. As a Data Platform Solution Engineer, you'll have ample opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

• Process step 1: Technical assessment, focusing on your expertise in cloud databases and analytics, data modeling, and ETL/ELT processes.
• Process step 2: Customer engagement scenario, where you'll demonstrate your ability to guide customers through secure, scalable solution design and accelerate database and analytics migration.
• Process step 3: Team fit assessment, focusing on your communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, as well as your ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
• Process step 4: Final evaluation, where you'll discuss your technical impact and career aspirations with the hiring manager.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Portfolio tip 1: Highlight your expertise in cloud databases and analytics through case studies or projects that showcase your technical skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Portfolio tip 2: Demonstrate your understanding of data governance and security best practices, and explain how you've implemented them in previous projects.
• Portfolio tip 3: Showcase your ability to work effectively with customers and collaborate with diverse teams to deliver comprehensive data platform solutions.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

• Challenge preparation 1: Brush up on your knowledge of cloud databases and analytics, data modeling, and ETL/ELT processes. Familiarize yourself with Microsoft's data platform offerings and how they compare to competitors' solutions.
• Challenge preparation 2: Practice explaining complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner. Focus on your ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Challenge preparation 3: Prepare for customer engagement scenarios by researching common data platform challenges and developing solutions that address them.

ATS Keywords: (Organized by category)

• Programming Languages: SQL, Python, R, Java, C#, PowerShell
• Web Frameworks: Not applicable for this role
• Server Technologies: Azure, AWS, GCP, SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB
• Databases: Not applicable for this role
• Tools: Azure Data Factory, Azure Data Lake, Azure Databricks, Azure Synapse, Power BI, Tableau
• Methodologies: Agile, Scrum, DevOps, ITIL
• Soft Skills: Communication, presentation, interpersonal, problem-solving, attention to detail
• Industry Terms: Data Platform, Cloud & AI, Databases, Analytics, Solution Design, Deployment, Migration, Customer Engagement, Business Acumen

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will focus on your technical expertise, customer engagement skills, and ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams. By preparing thoroughly and demonstrating your passion for data platform solutions, you'll make a strong impression on potential employers.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Frontend Technologies: Not applicable for this role

Backend & Server Technologies:

• Backend technology 1: Azure, AWS, GCP
• Server technology 2: SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB
• Infrastructure tool 3: Azure Data Factory, Azure Data Lake, Azure Databricks, Azure Synapse

Development & DevOps Tools:

• Development tool 1: Visual Studio, Azure DevOps, Git
• DevOps tool 2: Azure Pipelines, Jenkins, Ansible
• Monitoring tool 3: Azure Monitor, New Relic, Datadog

📝 Enhancement Note: As a Data Platform Solution Engineer, you'll work with a wide range of cloud databases and analytics tools, as well as development and DevOps tools. Familiarize yourself with Microsoft's technology stack and how it compares to competitors' solutions.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Web Development Values:

• Web development value 1: Customer-centric approach, focusing on delivering solutions that meet customer needs and drive meaningful impact.
• Web development value 2: Collaborative culture, emphasizing knowledge sharing, teamwork, and continuous learning.
• Web development value 3: Innovation and creativity, encouraging employees to think outside the box and push the boundaries of what's possible.
• Web development value 4: Strong technical expertise, with a focus on staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices.

Collaboration Style:

• Collaboration approach 1: Cross-functional integration between sales, marketing, and customer success teams to deliver comprehensive data platform solutions.
• Collaboration approach 2: Code review culture and peer programming practices to ensure high-quality solutions and knowledge sharing.
• Collaboration approach 3: Knowledge sharing, technical mentoring, and continuous learning to drive personal and professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: Microsoft's team culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning. As a Data Platform Solution Engineer, you'll have ample opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

• Web development challenge 1: Staying up-to-date with the latest cloud databases and analytics technologies, as well as emerging trends in data management and governance.
• Web development challenge 2: Designing and implementing secure, scalable, and efficient data platform solutions that meet customer needs and drive meaningful impact.
• Web development challenge 3: Collaborating effectively with diverse teams, including sales, marketing, and customer success, to deliver comprehensive data platform solutions.
• Web development challenge 4: Developing deep technical expertise in cloud databases and analytics, as well as related technologies and best practices.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Learning opportunity 1: Microsoft offers numerous training and development opportunities, allowing you to expand your skillset and stay up-to-date with the latest technologies.
• Learning opportunity 2: Conference attendance, certification, and community involvement to enhance your professional network and gain exposure to new ideas and best practices.
• Learning opportunity 3: Technical mentorship, leadership development, and architecture decision-making to drive personal and professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant technical challenges and learning opportunities. By embracing these challenges and seeking out continuous learning, you can drive meaningful impact and position yourself for success within Microsoft's organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

• Technical question 1: Describe your experience with cloud databases and analytics, and how you've used them to drive meaningful impact for customers.
• Technical question 2: Walk us through a complex data migration project you've worked on, and explain how you ensured data integrity, security, and performance.
• Technical question 3: How do you approach designing and implementing secure, scalable, and efficient data platform solutions? Can you provide an example of a solution you've developed in the past?

Company & Culture Questions:

• Technical question 4: How do you stay up-to-date with the latest cloud databases and analytics technologies, as well as emerging trends in data management and governance?
• Technical question 5: Describe your experience working with cross-functional teams, and how you've ensured effective collaboration and communication to deliver comprehensive data platform solutions.
• Technical question 6: How do you approach building strong customer relationships and becoming a trusted advisor for data platform solutions? Can you provide an example of a successful customer engagement you've had in the past?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Presentation strategy 1: Highlight your expertise in cloud databases and analytics through case studies or projects that showcase your technical skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Presentation strategy 2: Demonstrate your understanding of data governance and security best practices, and explain how you've implemented them in previous projects.
• Presentation strategy 3: Showcase your ability to work effectively with customers and collaborate with diverse teams to deliver comprehensive data platform solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will focus on your technical expertise, customer engagement skills, and ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams. By preparing thoroughly and demonstrating your passion for data platform solutions, you'll make a strong impression on potential employers.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Data Platform Solution Engineer - Cloud & AI Data Platform - New Zealand position:

• Submit your application through the Microsoft Careers website.
• Concrete preparation step 1: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your expertise in cloud databases and analytics, as well as your experience with customer engagement and solution design.
• Concrete preparation step 2: Research Microsoft's data platform offerings and how they compare to competitors' solutions. Familiarize yourself with Microsoft's company culture and values.
• Concrete preparation step 3: Prepare for technical assessments and customer engagement scenarios by brushing up on your knowledge of cloud databases and analytics, data modeling, and ETL/ELT processes.
• Concrete preparation step 4: Prepare for team fit assessments by practicing your communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, as well as your ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web development industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.