Graduate Programme 2027 - Data Services Graduate

Auckland Council is on the hunt for graduates! If you're in your final year or recently graduated and ready to kick-start your career where your work truly matters, our 2-year rotational Graduate Programme is your chance to get stuck in. Join the largest local government organisation in Oceania, serving over 1.7 million people, and gain hands-on experience and the opportunity to help shape the future of Tāmaki Makaurau as a world-class city.

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

The Data Services department plays a critical role in shaping how Auckland Council manages, protects, and uses data as a strategic asset. We lead the implementation of the organisation’s Data Governance Framework, ensuring that policies, standards, and best‑practice processes are embedded across the council. Our work supports high-quality, trusted data; effective records and archives management; and the tools, education, and guidance that enable kaimahi (staff) to use data confidently and responsibly. From data quality and cataloguing to conservation, digitisation, and advisory support, we help the organisation get the most value from its data while meeting legislative and policy obligations. You’ll work in a supportive environment where learning, collaboration, and shared problem-solving are core to how we operate

Your Rotations

Your tasks may include:

• Building data models, analysing trends, and identifying patterns to support informed business decisions.
• Cleaning, transforming, and integrating data from various sources to ensure accuracy and usability.
• Conducting data analysis and producing insightful reports.
• Automating reporting processes to enhance efficiency and support BI objectives.
• Assisting with the migration of reports into Power BI.
• Supporting data migration activities into Snowflake.
• Implementing data quality checks to maintain high standards of data integrity.
• Managing metadata and data lineage to improve transparency and traceability.
• Collaborating with our Records & Archives team to support effective information management.

You don’t need experience in all of these areas; we’ll teach you. What matters most is your curiosity and willingness to learn.

Start date of programme, Monday 15th February 2027

He kōrero mōu: About you

We’re looking for graduates who are genuinely passionate about all things data. You’ll bring strong communication skills, a curiosity-driven mindset, and an eagerness to learn and grow.

We embrace diversity and value the unique perspectives each person brings. If you’re unsure whether you meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Your potential matters more to us than perfection.

Desirable qualifications 

• Computer Science
• Mathematics
• Statistics
• Physics
• Software engineering 
• Master of Information Governance - UoA - Brand new (data analyst, data protection, AI, security)

You must have:

• A minimum of a relevant Bachelor’s degree
• Eligibility to work in Aotearoa New Zealand for more than 4 years without sponsorship

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

You’ll gain a broad understanding of council operations and receive the support you need to step into a permanent role at the end of the programme. We offer flexibility, wellbeing support, tailored learning opportunities, and a development pathway designed to accelerate your career. You’ll also be part of a supportive graduate cohort throughout your journey.

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 graduate 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!

We will be reviewing and progressing applications as they are received, so get your application in now!  

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: 29 March 2026

Find a copy of the position description here: Data Services Graduate PD

This role has a remuneration range of $65,000.

Our employer Kiwisaver contribution is additional to base salary offered. 

#workingforauckland

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.