AI & Automation Specialist

Kernel is growing and we’re building capability in how AI and automation is used across the business.

This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys turning messy, manual workflows into clear, scalable systems. You’ll work closely with the CTO and teams across the business to understand how work gets done today, identify where time is lost, and implement practical solutions that improve speed, quality, and efficiency.

This isn’t a research role or a “side project” for AI - it’s about real adoption and measurable improvements in how the business operates.

About Kernel

We're a 100% Kiwi owned and operated fintech on a mission to make wealth accessible for every Kiwi. Our investment platform takes the guesswork out of investing – offering KiwiSaver, Managed Funds, US shares & ETFs, and Smart Saver accounts, all in one place with some of the lowest fees in the market.

We're at an exciting stage. Scaling fast, expanding our team of globally experienced financial professionals, and building the foundations for what's next. Our culture is collaborative, hands-on and ambitious – built on trust, innovation and saying it like it is. We value diverse perspectives, empower individuality, and believe the best ideas come from thinking together.

Things move quickly here, and every person plays a key role in shaping our future.

What You’ll Do

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

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.