Summer Student (Sustainability & Applied Science Division) (3 opportunities)

About Us

Nova Scotia Environment and Climate Change’s has a mandate to protect the environment and human health through regulatory excellence, conservation, partnership and promotion. The department works to support a clean and healthy environment in Nova Scotia, advance a clean economy, addressing the climate crisis and guide the province towards a sustainable and clean future where all Nova Scotians can thrive.

The Sustainability and Applied Science Division’s Environmental Health and Food Safety and Drinking Water and Water Resources Teams help protect public health and the environment through a wide range of programs. Together, they ensure the safety of food and drinking water, manage health hazards in various settings, and work to prevent disease and injury. They also safeguard vital water resources—including surface water, groundwater, wetlands, and wastewater—supporting both community well-being and the health of local ecosystems.

About Our Opportunity

We are looking for University or College students to assist with projects related to programs in the Environmental Health & Food Safety Branch and the Water Branch in the Sustainability and Applied Science Division.

Qualifications and Experience

You must be a full-time university or college student in the field of natural resource management returning to study in the fall (or in the next applicable semester for the education program). 

You demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills and problem-solving ability.  You are also capable of conducting field work both independently and as part of a team. You will be familiar with using a personal computer with standard office software for applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and email.  

Preference will be given to candidates with knowledge or experience that specifically aligns with one or more of the positions available:

Environmental Health & Food Safety

Water Resources Observational Network (1 position - field based, EHFS Branch) – This field-based role offers hands-on experience in environmental monitoring across Nova Scotia. As part of the Water Resources Observational Network, you’ll assist with routine sampling and data collection at surface water and groundwater sites, while helping to install, maintain, and troubleshoot monitoring equipment. You’ll also gain valuable skills in environmental data entry and management.

This position requires experience and coursework in environmental monitoring, water resources, or hydrology. Candidate must also have:

• The ability to conduct fieldwork in remote, rugged terrain, and operate or maintain field equipment.
• Comfort using GPS and handheld data collection tools (e.g. Survey123)
• A valid driver's license.

Surface Water Quality (1 position - office based with some fieldwork, EHFS Branch) – This is a great opportunity to contribute to important surface water quality programs, including initiatives focused on blue-green algae. You’ll gain hands-on experience with environmental data analysis, jurisdictional research, and reporting—all while building your skills in environmental protection. While the role is primarily office-based, there may be opportunities for short-notice fieldwork, including assisting with water sampling or transporting samples to a laboratory.

This position requires students to currently be completing year two (2) or higher of a program focused on surface water quality, limnology, or related environmental science topics. They must also have:

• Strong research, data analysis, and written communication skills to support reviews and reporting.
• The willingness to assist with fieldwork or water sample logistics when needed.
• Have a valid driver's license. 

Water Branch

GIS and Data Technician (1 position - office-based, Water Branch) – This role offers a valuable opportunity to apply and grow your GIS skills in support of water resource management. As a GIS and Data Technician, you’ll help maintain and enhance geospatial datasets by acquiring, updating, and processing mapping data. You’ll also support the organization and entry of key environmental datasets, contributing to real-world projects that inform decision-making and protect water resources.

This position requires the student to have the foundational knowledge of GIS and experience using ArcGIS tools to manage geospatial data. The student must also have:

• The ability to update, organize, and process environmental or natural resource datasets. 
• A strong attention to detail and data quality in digital file management. 

Fieldwork may involve working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, including rain, sun, and heat. While the work is not typically in remote or rugged terrain, candidates should be prepared for variable outdoor conditions and recognize the physical demands of working outside for extended periods.

We will assess the above qualifications using one or more of the following tools: written examination, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Equivalency

Fieldwork may involve working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, including rain, sun, and heat. While the work is not typically in remote or rugged terrain, candidates should be prepared for variable outdoor conditions and recognize the physical demands of working outside for extended periods.

We will assess the above qualifications using one or more of the following tools: written examination, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Additional Information

These are STUDENT employment opportunities available with an estimated start date of May 5, 2025 and end date of August 29, 2025.

Please note: There are currently 3 positions within the Sustainability & Applied Science Division - 2 position with the Environmental Health & Food Safety Branch, and 1 position in the Water Branch, all located in Halifax.
 

Employees are expected to provide their own safety boots. Field positions require a high degree of physical fitness; i.e. Carrying 35-45lb backpacks/equipment for long periods of time over rugged terrain and in-all weather conditions for 4-5 days a week.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 

Please indicate in your application your preferred placement (Water Resources Observational Network, Surface Water Quality, or GIS and Data Technician).