Environment Canterbury

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• Uni Holidays | Fixed Term 3 Months | Nov 2026 - Feb 2027
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Mō Ngā Manu Pīrere | About the Summer Student Programme

Our 2026 Summer Student Programme offers a 3–4 month, full-time, fixed-term opportunity for students wanting to gain meaningful, real-world experience at Environment Canterbury. We offer a range of placements across our organisation for tertiary students who are currently studying or have recently graduated

As part of the programme, you’ll take part in a tailored onboarding experience, including a comprehensive welcome and induction. You’ll connect with and learn alongside a cohort of fellow summer students, building networks, confidence, and capability while contributing to work that makes a difference for our region and environment.

This is a great opportunity to apply what you’ve learned, develop practical skills, and explore future career pathways.

Kōrero mō te Tūranga | About the Role 

As an Environmental Data Integrity Officer Summer Student your work will be mainly office-based, using your skills and attention to detail to support data management across multiple science domains. You’ll be working alongside experienced Data Analysts to deliver high-quality data management that supports our long-term monitoring programmes, as well as specific projects that aim to improve our data quality. Tasks will include entry, processing, quality assurance and basic analysis of environmental data. You’ll also work with GIS datasets and may be required to create data visualisations. 

There will also be opportunities to assist our Monitoring Teams with field data collection.  

Key responsibilities may include:

• Supporting projects, analysis, or fieldwork relevant to your placement area
• Assisting with research, data collection, reporting, or administration
• Working collaboratively with team members and other summer students
• Applying theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges
• Contributing to a positive, inclusive, and safety-focused workplace

 Mōu │ About You 

You’ll be currently studying or have recently graduated from a tertiary qualification (degree or diploma) in environmental science, data or other relevant field. A basic knowledge of environmental datasets, databases and GIS would be an advantage. You’ll be a motivated and curious students who is keen to learn and contribute. You’ll bring a positive attitude, a willingness to ask questions, and an interest in the work we do at Environment Canterbury.

We can show you how we do things at Environment Canterbury and will provide appropriate health and safety training and on-the-job training. 

What’s important is: 

• Have a general awareness of environmental, community, or public sector work
• Be organised, reliable, and able to manage competing priorities
• Communicate clearly and work well with others
• Be eager to develop skills, knowledge, and professional networks
• Confidence with the Microsoft office suite

Ngā hua o te Mahi i te Kaunihera Taiao ki Waitaha | Working at Environment Canterbury  

Our mahi is underpinned by our values:

• Kaitiakitanga (stewardship)
• Pononga (integrity)
• Manaakitanga (people first)
• Whanaungatanga (collaboration)
• Māiatanga (can do)

We value and embrace diversity and believe it enables us to better serve our people, communities, and our greatest taonga—the environment. Everyone’s contribution, perspective, and skills are valued here.

We’re on a journey to becoming a Treaty partner of excellence. We encourage the use and development of kaupapa Māori, mātauranga Māori, and te reo Māori in our work and welcome you wherever you are on your personal te ao Māori journey.

Ko ētahi atu kōrero | Additional Information

For a confidential chat about this role, please contact Jennifer Tregurtha on 027 239 5351.

Apply directly by completing the online application form and submitting your CV and cover letter.

As part of your cover letter, in 300 words or less, please tell us about a project, assignment, research topic or problem you worked on during your studies that you're particularly proud of. What was your contribution, what did you learn, and how might those learnings be applied in a workplace setting?

Applications close on Wednesday, 29 July. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews may take place prior to the closing date. We reserve the right to close advertising early.

The Summer Student Programme will commence on Monday, 16 November. It is essential that all candidates are available to begin on this date and are fully available during the week to participate in required training and induction as part of the cohort.

Eligibility:               

• Studying at a New Zealand University
• Be currently studying or graduating this current year
• Have the right to work in New Zealand
• Be available to work full-time from November to February

Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete an interview, reference checks, and a criminal record check. Additional background checks may apply depending on the role.

Me mahi tahi tātou – Together we can