Summer Student | Land Resources

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. Job Type: Summer Student Location: Christchurch, New Zealand Job Category: Environmental Services About the Role You will be working in the Land Resources Science team as part of a project aimed at understanding the long-term expansion of irrigated land over the Canterbury region. This work tackles complex issues and requires a methodical, analytical, and detailed approach. You will also be involved in organising and entering data from the water body access monitoring programme. The role involves both practical skills such as GIS work and archival research, as well as an understanding of environmental science and data handling principles. Key Responsibilities Assisting with research, data collection, reporting, or administration 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, with a focus on Environmental Science and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). You should be confident using GIS software, especially in data entry and editing. You have an interest in understanding environmental processes, particularly in the context of water resource management, and bring a positive attitude, a willingness to ask questions, and an interest in the work we do at Environment Canterbury. 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 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. Additional Information 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr