Search jobs now Submit your CV Explore how we help jobseekers Contract talent Permanent talent Project and interim management Learn how we work with you Finance and accounting Technology Technology Risk, audit and compliance Finance and accounting Digital, marketing and customer experience Legal Operations Human resources 2026 Salary Guide Robert Half blog Press room Career development Management tips Hiring help Land that job Research & insights Browse jobs Find your next hire Our locations

Senior Systems Engineer

Senior Systems Engineer job description

The Senior Systems Engineer leads the design, implementation, and optimisation of IT infrastructure, ensuring secure, scalable, and high-performing systems across New Zealand operations. This role combines technical leadership with hands-on expertise, supporting both project delivery and operational excellence within hybrid environments.

Senior Systems Engineer duties and responsibilities of the job

Key responsibilities of a Senior Systems Engineer include:Designing and maintaining enterprise infrastructure across on-premise and cloud environments (e.g. Azure, AWS)Managing core services including Active Directory, Microsoft 365, virtualisation platforms (VMware, Hyper-V), and storage solutionsLeading system upgrades, migrations, and automation initiatives to improve performance and resilienceEnsuring infrastructure compliance with the NZ Privacy Act, ISO 27001, and internal IT governance policiesProviding advanced troubleshooting for complex infrastructure issues and mentoring junior team membersDeveloping and maintaining disaster recovery and business continuity plansCollaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver integrated infrastructure solutionsDocumenting system architecture, procedures, and configurations to support operational readiness and auditsEvaluating and implementing new technologies to align with organisational goals

Senior Systems Engineer job qualifications and requirements

A diploma or degree in systems engineering, information technology, or a related field is required. Certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator, VMware VCP, or equivalent are preferred.Requirements include:5+ years’ experience in systems engineering with senior-level responsibilitiesExpertise in Windows Server, Microsoft 365, virtualisation, and hybrid cloud infrastructureStrong understanding of networking fundamentals and endpoint security practicesProven ability to lead infrastructure projects and continuous improvement initiativesKnowledge of New Zealand data protection and cybersecurity compliance standardsExcellent problem-solving, documentation, and stakeholder communication skills

Find senior systems engineer talent. Find senior systems engineer jobs.

Submit your resume or request talent now and our expert recruiters will be with you shortly.Robert Half can assist you with your senior systems engineer staffing needs.
Salary for Senior Systems Engineer

130000 - 145000

25th percentile
130000
The candidate is new to the role or has limited experience and is building necessary skills.
50th percentile
135000
The candidate has moderate experience in the role, meets most requirements or has equivalent transferable skills, and may also have relevant certifications.
75th percentile
145000
The candidate has extensive experience and advanced skills for the role, and may also have specialised certifications.
Salary range based on three percentiles The starting salaries represent gross yearly salaries. They do not include bonuses, benefits or KiwiSaver.
Projected salaries for related positions Job title 25th percentile 50th percentile 75th percentile Infrastructure Architect 155000 175000 185000 Network Engineer 110000 120000 130000 Senior Network Engineer 130000 135000 145000 Systems Engineer 110000 120000 130000 Infrastructure Manager 145000 160000 180000 Cloud Engineer 130000 145000 160000 DevOps Engineer 130000 150000 175000 EUC Engineer 95000 110000 120000 Modern Workplace Engineer 105000 115000 135000

Explore more salaries

Looking to hire? Start here.

Access the skilled permanent and contract talent you need, from support roles to C-suite, with precision matching powered by Robert Half recruiters leveraging their experience together with our industry-leading AI technology. Hire talent

More to explore

2026 Salary Guide Explore our Salary Guide to confidently benchmark 100+ salaries, plan your budgets and better understand compensation trends.
How to successfully negotiate your salary this year Discover salary trends, key negotiation strategies, and a salary negotiation email sample to help you secure the pay you deserve.
What are non-monetary benefits and why do they matter? Discover why non-monetary benefits like flexibility, training, and recognition are essential for retaining top talent in New Zealand.
How to make a cover letter that stands out in New Zealand Standing out in New Zealand’s competitive job market requires a captivating a cover letter that complements your resume and grabs the hiring manager’s attention. This blog post will equip you with the essential steps to make a cover letter that stands out.
How to improve your adaptability skills Adaptability skills can be possessed both in both attitude and action. Learn how to improve your adaptability skills for your career.
Our starting salary projections come from a detailed, multistep process that ensures our numbers accurately reflect the marketplace. They’re based on real compensation data for job candidates our recruiters have matched with companies across the country. The Salary Guide from Robert Half is the original. We’ve been publishing salary forecasts since 1950, and our guide has served as a trusted source for employers, job seekers, industry associations, government and educational institutions, and national and local media.