Summer Student | Surface Water Resources

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 placements across the organisation for tertiary students who are currently studying or have recently graduated. Job Type: Summer Student Location: Christchurch, New Zealand Job Category: Environmental Services About the Role Position One: Dry Reach Mapping Will primarily be responsible for mapping dry reaches within Canterbury’s intermittent rivers and streams including the Waitohi, Hinds/Hekeao, Selwyn/Waikirikiri, Te Ngawai, and Hae Hae Te Moana catchments. This role involves extensive fieldwork, walking and driving along riverbeds to collect and record environmental data; gathered data will be used alongside and validated against satellite imagery to support monitoring and analysis activities. Experience with GIS software, spatial data analysis, and remote sensing imagery would be highly advantageous. Position Two: River Flow Analysis Will primarily be responsible for analysing river flow conditions in relation to annual macroinvertebrate monitoring data collected over the past 20 years from the Waipara River, Rakahuri/Ashley River, and Waikirikiri/Selwyn River. The project will improve understanding of hydrological drivers behind changes in macroinvertebrate communities. The role is predominantly office‑based with occasional fieldwork. Key Responsibilities (Both Roles) Supporting projects, analysis, or fieldwork relevant to your placement area 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 About You You are currently studying or have recently graduated from a tertiary qualification (degree or diploma) in science and have a passion for Canterbury hydrology. You are motivated, curious, and eager to learn and contribute. You have a genuine interest in Canterbury hydrology (and instream ecology for Position 2). Some knowledge of hydrological and instream ecological processes is an advantage. Experience or study in hydrology, freshwater ecology, environmental science, or integration of hydrological and ecological datasets is highly advantageous. The role may involve overnight travel and occasional work outside normal business hours; you must be confident working independently, driving long distances, and undertaking fieldwork in and around waterways, in a range of weather conditions. You demonstrate general awareness of environmental, community, or public sector work, are organised, reliable, and able to manage competing priorities. You communicate clearly and work well with others, and are eager to develop skills, knowledge, and professional networks. Values Kaitiakitanga (stewardship) Pononga (integrity) Manaakitanga (people first) Whanaungatanga (collaboration) Māiatanga (can do) Eligibility Studying at a New Zealand university 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 #J-18808-Ljbffr