Summer Student | Groundwater Science

Job Type: Summer Student

Location: Christchurch, New Zealand

Job Category: Environmental Services

• Connect with likeminded students
• Living wage supporter
• Summer Holidays | Fixed Term 3 Months | Nov 2026 - Feb 2027

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 the Groundwater Officer Summer Student you will carry out both office-based tasks and field visits to community drinking-water supply wells. You’ll be using your skills to critically assess and gather information from multiple sources and communicate with external organisations. You’ll compile information on locations, well details, photographs and nearby land use in our databases and excel spreadsheets, with the support of our Groundwater Scientists and Field Technicians.

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

There may also be the opportunity to support with groundwater monitoring and carry out other office-based tasks.

Mōu │ About You

You’ll be currently studying or recently graduated in a relevant tertiary discipline.

Ideally, you’ll have an interest in environmental science, a background in GIS, water resources, contaminated water, geography, geology, or a related field. A basic knowledge of GIS systems is an advantage.

You will be well organised, and comfortable working in a team. You must possess an eye for detail and have good communication skills.

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
• Your eye for detail
• Good communications skills
• 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 Marta Scott on 027 235 6314 .

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