Summer Student | Regional Biodiversity

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. Job Type: Summer Student Location: Christchurch, New Zealand Job Category: Environmental Services About the Role Environment Canterbury's Biodiversity & Biosecurity team is looking for two Summer Students to contribute to a range of biodiversity and biosecurity projects. You'll support the delivery and monitoring of initiatives focused on protecting and enhancing wetlands, braided rivers, and fish habitats across the region, as well as supporting biosecurity initiatives such as monitoring and surveillance of pest species. Key Responsibilities Weed mapping and vegetation assessments, research and management plan development. Undertaking fish habitat and fish passage assessments. Biodiversity project management. Ground‑truthing GEOAI imagery. Physical searching for pest species. 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. About You You will be currently studying or have recently graduated from a tertiary qualification (degree or diploma) in environmental science or a related field, with an awareness and interest in freshwater and terrestrial biodiversity. You will have excellent communication skills and a positive attitude, willingness to ask questions, and an interest in the work we do at Environment Canterbury. 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. Our Values Kaitiakitanga (stewardship) Pononga (integrity) Manaakitanga (people first) Whanaungatanga (collaboration) Māiatanga (can do) Additional Information Apply directly by completing the online application form and submitting your CV and cover letter. In your cover letter, in 300 words or less, please describe a project, assignment, research topic or problem you worked on during your studies that you’re particularly proud of. Include what your contribution was, what you learned, and how those learnings might 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. All candidates are required to be available to begin on this date and fully available during the week to participate in required training and induction as part of the cohort. 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. 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr