Environmental Scientist intern (Nov 2026)

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

AECOM’s Environmental Science / Ecology Intern role is a 12-week paid summer internship (mid November to mid February) with the Christchurch team, offering hands-on work from day one alongside scientists, planners and engineers. You’ll apply your academic knowledge to fieldwork, data analysis, reporting and sustainability assessments while engaging in a global network through the Summer Series and a potential path to the Graduate Program. Stand out by being in your penultimate year, pursuing a relevant degree, and showing strong communication and teamwork, adaptability, and on-site readiness (New Zealand driver’s license preferred) with working rights in New Zealand and Australia. Submit one document including resume, cover letter, and transcripts, and be prepared for a face-to-face interview. Apply early.

Company Description

“I love working in a place where ingenuity is encouraged and the impact is tangible. It’s the kind of environment that pushes you to grow while knowing you’re part of a team that's dedicated to your success.” Hugo Barry, Graduate Digital Specialist, Ground Remediation Services team 

Come grow with us.

AECOM's environmental practice is dedicated to helping industries, clients and governments meet their environmental responsibilities while protecting the natural environment. We provide advisory and technical services to ensure compliance, manage impacts, and reduce risks, including obtaining permits and approvals, decommissioning and restoring contaminated sites, and tackling climate change challenges and resilience. We focus on preserving habitats, water quality, stakeholder engagement and cultural resources, promoting a holistic approach to environmental impact management at every project stage. 

Everyone belongs at AECOM.  

We’re committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging - because great ideas come from diverse perspectives. AECOM is proud to be a Fortune 500 Most Admired Company, a WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality, #Work180 Equitable Workplace Awards 2025 Winner and an AWEI Bronze Tier LGBTQ+ Inclusive Employer.  

Job Description

Our team delivers transformational projects across New Zealand — from renewable energy and transmission to major road, rail, water, and industrial developments. We combine innovative technologies with decades of expertise to support outcomes that meet regulatory requirements, advance clients’ Environmental, Social, and Governance objectives, and create meaningful outcomes for communities. As an intern, you will learn under the guidance of experienced scientists.

We are looking for an Environmental Science / Ecology Intern to join our Christchurch team.

How you’ll make a difference:

• Apply your academic knowledge to real-world tasks by assisting with research, data analysis, mapping, and fieldwork.
• Learn directly from industry leaders + technical specialists
• Gain hands-on experience by supporting multi-disciplinary teams (scientists, planners, engineers, drafters, project administrators, and contractors).
• Develop skills in environmental/ecological assessments by providing support on project -related activities which may include, but are not limited to, field investigations (e.g., ecological – terrestrial, wetland, and freshwater), reporting, preparation and planning, data collection, data analysis, and presentation.
• Help embed sustainability and resilience outcomes by collating sustainability data, applying assessment tools as directed, and documenting project actions and benefits.
• A dedicated buddy who will guide you throughout your internship

What Our Summer Internship Program Offers

• 12-week paid internship (mid-November to mid-February)
• Real project experience: Contribute to meaningful work and apply your university learning to real-world projects from day one.
• Exposure to iconic projects: Be part of projects that help shape communities, cities and infrastructure across Australia and New Zealand.
• AECOM Summer Series: Connect with senior leaders from across our business through an exclusive program of presentations providing insight into different career pathways and areas of expertise.
• Work alongside technical experts: Work alongside graduates, technical experts, and industry leaders.
• Be part of a global business: Experience the benefits of working for a global consultancy, with opportunities to collaborate across teams, markets and geographies.
• Pathway to graduate employment: Successful interns may be considered for future graduate opportunities, providing a direct pathway into AECOM's Graduate Program.

Qualifications

• Summer Intern attributes: Interns who are curious and excited to apply their studies in a professional environment. You'll bring strong communication and teamwork skills, a positive and proactive attitude, adaptability, and a commitment to professionalism and integrity. 
• Bachelor’s Degree: You must be in your penultimate year of a Bachelor’s or Postgraduate degree in Environmental Science, Ecology or a related discipline.
• Preferred: Hold a full New Zealand driver's licence and be willing to work on site.
• Commencement: Able to work full time hours from 16 November 2026 – 19 February 2027. 
• Working Rights: You must have full working rights to work in Australia and New Zealand before applying. 

Additional Information

Our Recruitment Process   

1. Submit Your Application: Complete the job application, uploading your resume, cover letter and the latest copy of your academic transcripts as one single document.  
2. Interview: Attend a face-to-face interview at your local office.  

Applications are reviewed as they come in, and the role may close earlier than expected, so if this opportunity sounds like you, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Ready to push the limits of what’s possible?

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, additional health or mental health needs, and/or neurodiverse conditions. If you require any adjustments during the hiring process, please let us know.

Learn more about life at AECOM: LinkedIn, Facebook , Instagram, X, YouTube - explore our AECOM voices, employee stories, latest projects, and much more!

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.