Toi Hangarau | Geospatial Research Institute

Located in Ōtautahi | Christchurch, Aotearoa | New Zealand

• 4 weeks annual leave +5 days university holidays
• Fixed-Term (12 months) position \ 37.5 hours per week

We’re looking for an early career Software Developer who enjoys collaborating with researchers, turning complex research questions into practical software solutions, and working with large spatial datasets and emerging geospatial technologies.

Āu Mahi | What You Will Do

In this role, you will work closely with researchers and project teams to design and develop software that supports the delivery of impactful research projects, including the development of an analytical digital twin for Antarctica. You will help build and maintain geospatial tools and systems, contribute to spatial data analysis, and support the wider research community through documentation, collaboration and knowledge sharing.

You’ll also have opportunities to contribute to research outputs, participate in workshops and conferences, and help shape the future direction of software development within GRI. You will be responsible for:

• Designing and developing software solutions for multidisciplinary geospatial research projects
• Working with researchers to analyse spatial data and support research objectives
• Deploying and maintaining research software and associated systems
• Contributing to research proposals and collaborative projects
• Documenting software and research methods and contributing to publications where appropriate
• Sharing expertise through training sessions, workshops, and collaboration with colleagues and partners
• Representing the Institute at workshops, conferences and research events.

Mōu | Who You Are

You will have a qualification in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field and be a collaborative and curious developer who enjoys applying technology to complex research challenges.

You will also be able to demonstrate experience in:

• Experience developing software, ideally involving geospatial data or spatial analysis
• Strong programming skills (such as Python, C++, C#, JavaScript, or similar)
• Familiarity with Linux/Windows environments, cloud computing, or containerisation
• Interest or experience in large spatial datasets, geospatial AI, or scientific computing
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams
• An alignment with our organisation's values and culture, promoting a positive and inclusive work environment.

Mahi Ngātahi | Who You Will Work With

The Geospatial Research Institute undertakes interdisciplinary, partnership-based geospatial research across the social and physical sciences. Our research is culturally appropriate, ethical, and engaged. Find out more about the Geospatial Research Institute here: Geospatial Research Institute | University of Canterbury

Ngā Painga o UC | Why UC

At UC, being part of our team means more than just a job. We are committed to supporting our kaimahi | staff’s career and wellbeing with benefits designed to help our kaimahi grow and feel connected, supported and valued.

UC’s Benefits approach is shaped by Ngā Uara | Our Values Whanaungatanga, Tiakitanga, and Manaakitanga. They are designed to be relevant, support and inspire our people, they include:

• 4 weeks annual leave +5 days university holidays
• generous employer contribution to superannuation (up to 6.75%) (If over 9 month)
• flexible working arrangements
• professional development opportunities
• supportive working environment
• a wide range of retail discounts across shopping, entertainment and travel
• on-campus staff discounts
• living in revitalised Ōtautahi | Christchurch, Aotearoa New Zealand
• a unique working environment in a beautiful campus with access to UC facilities such as UC RecCentre and Staff Club at discounted rates plus onsite cafés and eateries, and more.

For more information, please visit us: https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/about-uc/work-at-uc/benefits-working-uc

For more information about Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury, please visit https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/

The closing date for this position is: 15 June 2026 (midnight, NZ time)

Please note, applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews may take place before the close date.

Pēhea te tono mai | How You Apply

Applications for this position must be submitted via our careers website and should include a cover letter and resume.

Please note, we do not accept applications by email, however we are happy to answer your queries in relation to the application process, please forward these to WorkatUC@canterbury.ac.nz

You must have Aotearoa New Zealand or Australian citizenship/permanent residency to be considered for this role.