Student Future Opportunity Stream - Natural Resources, Energy & Climate

About Us

At the Nova Scotia Provincial Government, we believe students bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that help shape the future of public service. We work across multiple sectors to deliver programs and services that matter to Nova Scotians. We value diversity and belonging and strive to create an environment where different perspectives and experiences are welcomed and respected. We encourage applications from those that equally value and champion equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA).

One Application, Many Opportunities

This competition is part of the Future Opportunities Stream for Students—a centralized intake that creates an inventory of students with diverse skills, interests, and experiences. Students may be matched to a variety of opportunities as positions become available across government programs, including roles within Natural Resources, Fisheries & Aquaculture, Energy & Climate and other areas.

These opportunities are built for students. Positions are temporary and designed to provide meaningful, hands-on work experience that supports skill development and career exploration.

Work close to home—or somewhere new. Opportunities may be available in multiple locations across Nova Scotia, depending on operational needs and student interest.

As part of the application process, you will complete a series of pre-screening questions to help us learn more about your skills, strengths, and interests. Not all skills are required for every role—some may be considered assets rather than essential, depending on the position. While there are several questions, they are designed to be straightforward and should not take long to complete. Taking time to answer thoughtfully helps us match students with the best possible opportunities.

Equity matters. Some roles may be designated for specific employment equity groups. To be considered for these opportunities, applicants must self identify during the application process. Learn more by reviewing the Nova Scotia Government’s Employment Equity Policy, including details on designated groups.

Apply now and take the next step in your student career journey.

More About Our Opportunities

The Government of Nova Scotia offers exciting student opportunities across Parks, Natural Resources, Energy, Environment and Climate Change, and Fisheries and Aquaculture—giving you the chance to learn, explore, and make a real impact while building your career.

As a student with the Department of Natural Resources, you could work outdoors or in labs and offices, helping care for Nova Scotia’s forests, parks, wildlife, minerals, and Crown lands. From scientific and geoscience projects to public safety and environmental planning, you’ll gain practical experience while contributing to responsible resource management.

Interested in clean energy and innovation? With the Department of Energy, students play a role in Nova Scotia’s transition to a cleaner, more affordable energy future. You may support renewable energy projects, energy efficiency programs, or clean transportation initiatives, work that’s shaping how the province powers itself for generations to come.

At Nova Scotia Environment and Climate Change, students help protect the environment and support human and animal health through science‑based policy, regulation, and program delivery. This is a great opportunity to gain insight into climate action, environmental protection, and the growing clean economy.

Students with Fisheries and Aquaculture support Nova Scotia’s vibrant fishing, aquaculture, and seafood industries—cornerstones of coastal and rural communities. Your work helps sustain industries that are deeply connected to the province’s culture, economy, and way of life.

Across all departments, these roles offer more than just a job—they provide meaningful, resume‑building experience, mentorship from public‑sector professionals, and the opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable future for Nova Scotia while you grow your skills and confidence.

Opportunities may include, but are not limited to:

Park Attendant (Parks & Camping)
Work outdoors supporting Nova Scotia’s provincial parks, beaches, and campgrounds. You’ll welcome visitors and campers, help maintain facilities and campsites, and assist with reservations and basic cash handling in a fast paced, scenic environment.

Parks Planning Student
Gain hands on experience in conservation and park planning. You’ll work with park professionals to research and analyze data, support mapping activities, and help shape provincial park management plans across Nova Scotia.

Forestry Outreach & Education Student
Get hands on experience connecting people to nature. You’ll support forestry education programs, create digital and social content, engage the public at events, and help deliver youth outdoor skills initiatives across Nova Scotia.

GIS Student
Put your GIS skills into action in this office based summer role with the Geological Survey Division. You’ll support mineral potential modeling and geoscience data analysis while working alongside professional geoscientists and gaining valuable, resume ready GIS experience.

Geological Assistant
Build hands on geoscience skills by supporting geological data analysis, GIS work, and mineral potential modeling in a real world public sector setting.

Climate Adaptation Summer Student
Gain hands on experience supporting climate adaptation research in Nova Scotia. You’ll work with policy analysts on research, applied projects, and climate risk initiatives, with opportunities to support geospatial data work.

Program & Event Coordinator (Co-op Student)
Gain real world experience supporting events, programs, and communications in Nova Scotia’s energy sector. You’ll create content, work with data, and help deliver conferences and trade shows while building confidence and career ready skills.

Fisheries Technician
Get hands on hatchery experience caring for fish, collecting data, and maintaining facilities while building practical skills and supporting the conservation of Nova Scotia’s freshwater fish.

Clean Energy Co-op Students
Help power Nova Scotia’s clean energy transition while gaining hands on experience. You’ll work alongside experienced staff on research, policy, and programs in clean electricity, transportation, and buildings—supporting analysis, reports, and real world initiatives that make a difference.

Qualifications and Experience

We’re looking for enthusiastic, motivated students who are currently enrolled in a related post-secondary program and returning to their studies in the next academic term. 
You don’t need years of experience—bring your curiosity, energy, and willingness to learn and grow!

What will help you succeed:

• A positive attitude and interest in forestry, parks, or outdoor work.
• Ability to work safely and follow instructions.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Physical ability to perform tasks such as lifting, bending, and working outdoors.
• A commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility.
  
  

Working Conditions

• These positions may involve regular outdoor field work in all types of weather, including hot, cold, wet, and windy conditions. Employees must be comfortable performing physical tasks outdoors for extended periods.
  
  
• Field work may take place in rugged, uneven, and isolated terrain, sometimes during inclement weather that can create hazardous working and walking conditions (e.g., slippery footing, sharp stumps, blowdown, and hanging trees). Employees must be able to recognize and safely navigate these conditions.
  
  
• Depending on the position, employees may be required to lift and carry backpacks or equipment weighing approximately 35–55 lbs for extended periods, across rugged terrain, and in all weather conditions, 4–5 days per week.
  
  
• Some roles require a willingness to work in remote locations, including overnight field assignments.
  
  
• Duties for field-based forest and resource management roles may include activities such as timber cruising, forest harvest and road inspections, silviculture monitoring, wildlife habitat and watercourse inspections, biodiversity and forest research, forest inventory, tree improvement, and extension/outreach activities, depending on operational needs.
  
  
• Field employees are expected to provide their own approved safety boots.
  
  

Additional Information

These are student employment opportunities. Start dates may vary by position—some roles begin as early as May, while others offer July–August work terms only. Candidates with availability for the full summer or partial summer are encouraged to apply.

What We Offer

• Meaningful Work – Contribute to projects that make a real impact.
• Skill Development – Build practical skills and gain hands-on experience for future careers.
• Inclusive Environment – Join a workplace that values diversity and fosters respect.
• Supportive Teams – Work in positive, collaborative environments where your contributions are recognized.