Ecological Advice Intern

Spend your summer doing work that matters. Auckland Council’s Summer Internship Programme is from 23 November to 19 February and offers paid, hands-on experience at the Living Wage rate of $29.90 per hour. If you’re in your second-to-last year of study or continuing into a master’s programme, this is your chance to grow your skills, build your network and contribute to meaningful mahi for Tāmaki Makaurau.

He angitūtanga: The opportunity
We have a great opportunity for a students with an interest in ecology, environmental science or environmental management to join the Ecological Advice team in Auckland Council’s Environmental Services Unit for a 12-week period over the summer. 

The Ecological Advice team supports the protection and management of Auckland’s natural environment. This summer, you will support the review of schedules in the Auckland Unitary Plan, specifically the Significant Ecological Areas (SEA) and Outstanding Natural Features (ONF) overlays.

Based in the Auckland City Centre, but working across the Auckland region, you’ll work 40 hours per week on office-based tasks, with some opportunities for field work.

What you’ll be doing during your internship
During your 12-week internship, you’ll be part of the Ecological Advice team, supporting mahi that contributes to  the review of Significant Ecological Areas (SEA) and Outstanding Natural Features (ONF) overlays in the Auckland Unitary Plan. 

Your work may include:

•    Collating, digitising and management of technical information and datasets.
•    Support the identification of potential new SEAs and/or ONFs
•    Assisting with GIS mapping and spatial data management.

He kōrero mōu: About you
You have a collaborative approach but are also able to work independently and proactively where required. You are organised, detailed-oriented and enjoy working with technical information and data.

You are proficient in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel Experience, using ArcGIS Pro and working with environmental or spatial datasets would be beneficial. You have an interest in Auckland’s natural environment and are keen to develop your skills in ecology, GIS and environmental policy/planning.

To be eligible for this opportunity:
•    Be in your second-to-last year of a relevant bachelor’s degree in ecology, environmental science, biological sciences, geology/geography, environmental management, environmental planning/policy or a related discipline or continuing into a master’s degree programme. intending to continue into postgraduate study PGDipSci, BSc (Hons) or MSc.
•    Be eligible to work in New Zealand full-time from 23 November 2026 – 19 February 2027.

A current first aid certificate would be beneficial but are not essential.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer
You’ll gain hands-on experience, build practical skills and get a real insight into the mahi Auckland Council does for Tāmaki Makaurau. Throughout the 12-week internship, you’ll be supported by your team, connected with other interns and given opportunities to learn, grow your confidence and explore future career pathways in local government.

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. 

How we’ll support you as a candidate
We aim to provide an experience where you feel comfortable, supported, and able to be yourself.
•    We value whakapapa, reo, and tikanga as strengths - bring your whole self to mahi.
•    If you prefer a virtual interview or would like whānau support included, just let us know during the recruitment process.
•    We’ll work with you on any access needs so you can show your best self.

For more information about the Internship programme, please visit our careers page.  

Te Tukanga Tono: Application process
1.    Online application – CV + a few quick questions
2.    One-way video interview 
3.    Formal interview with a 2-person panel – in person or virtual
4.    Pre-employment checks 
5.    Offer – Nau mai ki te whānau!

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of. Nau mai, uru mai, your journey starts here.

Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!
Applications close: 11:59pm, Wednesday 14 October.
We will be reviewing and progressing applications as they are received. As applications may close earlier than the advertised closing date if a suitable candidate pool is identified, we encourage you to apply early.

Find a copy of the position description here: Ecological Advice Intern Position Description 

Auckland Council is committed to protecting your privacy in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020. We collect personal information directly from you and, where relevant for the purpose of assessing you for employment, and employing you as part of the transport reform process, from third parties such as referees, previous employers (including Auckland Transport) recruitment agencies, and background checking providers.

By applying for this role, you consent to Council obtaining a reference from your current employer, including information about any active conduct investigations and current performance management processes, if you are the preferred candidate. Reference checks will only be undertaken at the preferred candidate stage. Any non-active performance or conduct matters may also be discussed with referees as part of the reference checking process.

If you do not consent to this information being provided, Council may be unable to properly assess your application and your application will not progress further. If you wish to withhold your consent, or to access or correct your personal information, please contact the Privacy Officer at privacy@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.

Employees in receipt of salary protection and/or on the predecessor Council terms and conditions of employment, please note that the salary protection and/or predecessor Council terms and conditions, including relocation, apply to your current position. Should you change to a new position (other than any secondment) you will be issued with a new employment letter of offer with current Auckland Council terms and conditions.