AI & Automation Specialist

About the Position

AI & Automation Specialist

Turn workflows into clear, scalable systems with AI - drive real improvements at Kernel, partner with leadership, and help Kiwis invest with confidence.

Responsibilities

• Map and document workflows across teams - understanding what’s happening, where it breaks, and where work is repeated
• Identify opportunities to automate or augment work using AI, knowing what should be handled by people vs technology
• Implement automations using tools like Zapier, Make, n8n (or equivalents) and AI tools (ChatGPT, Claude or Cursor etc.)
• Work alongside engineers where deeper integrations or API work is required
• Support teams to adopt new ways of working, influencing a culture of experimentation and continuous improvement

Requirements

• Experience building automations that are used in real environments, not just prototypes
• Practical experience with AI tools and an understanding of how they can be applied in business workflows
• Strong systems thinking - you can break down and improve how work gets done
• Comfort working with APIs, integrations, and technical concepts
• Confidence working across both technical and non-technical teams

Nice to Have

• Experience working in a startup, scale-up, or fast-moving environment
• Exposure to LLM-enabled workflows or building multi-step automation processes
• Basic scripting or development capability (e.g. Python, JavaScript)
• Experience working with CRMs, internal tools, or operational systems

We Offer

• Play a key role in shaping how AI and automation is used across the business
• Have real impact - your work will directly improve how teams operate day-to-day
• Work closely with senior leadership and influence how the business evolves
• Competitive compensation package
• Enjoy the best of both worlds with a flexible hybrid setup, connect in person while keeping the freedom to work from home up to couple of days each week (minimum 3 days/week in the office).
• Health insurance, parental leave top-up, and professional development support
• Extra staff holidays, office snacks, coffee, and a dog-friendly environment

About the Company

Kernel is on a mission to help everyone become wealthier. We’re a platform offering a range of investment products and innovative tools and technology to grow wealth - with ease and all in one place.

We’re passionate about leveraging technology and our financial expertise to create the best way to grow and manage money. Our trusted passive investment approach takes the guesswork out of creating a diversified portfolio while remaining cost-effective and accessible.

We help busy and ambitious Kiwis including families, individuals, iwi groups and charitable trusts achieve their goals, gain financial stability and unlock more opportunities.

Founded in 2019, Kernel is a 100% Kiwi owned and operated fintech. We have 41 co-workers and are located in Auckland, New Zealand.

Join our team

Not sure you meet every requirement? We encourage you to apply. We value growth, impact, and mindset just as much as specific experience. If this opportunity sounds like you, send us your cover letter explaining why you’re excited about the role and working at Kernel, along with your CV.

Visit our careers page for more on working at Kernel and follow us on LinkedIn & Instagram to stay connected.