Data Scientist Intern

Waste Management; Auckland; On-site; NZD 28,000 - 33,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Meaningful projects

Learning & development

Flexible working arrangements

Onsite café and parking

Job summary

WM New Zealand is seeking a Data Science Intern to join the Data & Analytics team for hands-on AI/ML research and development using our modern data platform. This role offers the chance to develop proof-of-concepts that shape future technology strategies.

You’ll work on exploring AI/ML methodologies, prototype models, and collaborate with the team to deliver measurable business value in NZ’s data landscape. Flexible hours apply to a 30–400 hour engagement.

Qualifications

• NZQA level 6–10 or equivalent qualification is required.
• If studies are completed, the last semester must be within 12 months.
• Eligible qualifications include IT/Data Analytics or AI/Data Science pathways.

Responsibilities

• Conduct exploratory data analysis and research AI/ML applications.
• Develop and prototype machine learning models using appropriate algorithms and frameworks.
• Research emerging AI/ML methodologies and tools to select optimal approaches.
• Build proof-of-concept solutions to demonstrate AI/ML value in business areas.
• Collaborate with the Data & Analytics team leveraging the data platform (Snowflake, dbt, Azure Data Factory).
• Document research findings, model performance, and implement recommendations.
• Present outcomes and technical concepts to stakeholders and technical teams.
• Assist in developing evaluation metrics and testing frameworks for AI/ML solutions.

Education

Level 6 Diploma in IT/Data Analytics

Bachelor of Data Science

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

Postgraduate Diploma in Data Science

Master's in AI/Data Science

PhD in Computer Science

Job description

Job Description

About the role

We’re seeking a Data Science Intern to join our Data & Analytics team for an exciting internship. This opportunity offers hands-on experience in real-world AI/ML research and development, leveraging our modern data platform to explore foundational AI applications and develop proof-of-concepts that help shape future technology strategies.

What you'll be responsible for

• Conduct exploratory data analysis and research AI/ML applications

• Develop and prototype machine learning models using appropriate algorithms and frameworks to address specific business challenges.

• Research and evaluate emerging AI/ML methodologies, tools, and frameworks to recommend optimal technical approaches for our use cases.

• Build proof-of-concept solutions that demonstrate the potential value of AI/ML applications in our target business areas.

• Collaborate with the Data & Analytics team to leverage our modern data platform (Snowflake, dbt, Azure Data Factory) for AI/ML initiatives.

• Document research findings, model performance, and implement recommendations for future development roadmaps.

• Present research outcomes and technical concepts to business stakeholders and technical teams.

• Assist in developing evaluation metrics and testing frameworks for AI/ML solution assessment.

Qualifications

About you

Has studied or is studying Science, Technology, Engineering, Design or Business at a New Zealand tertiary education institution. For a duration of minimum 30 hours per week, for a maximum of 400 hours.

You’ll bring

• Has studied or is studying at NZQA level 6-10.
• If study has been completed, must have been studying towards one of the qualifications types listed in clause 1.3(b) and the closing date of the last semester must be less than 12 months ago. In practical terms, a student completing:
  • Level 6 Diploma in IT/Data Analytics
  • Bachelor of Data Science
  • Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Data Science
  • Master's in AI/Data Science
  • PhD in Computer Science
• has the appropriate immigration status to work in New Zealand
• has not been previously employed by WM New Zealand in a full time position
• has not undertaken more than two R&D Experience grant internships with WM New Zealand

Additional Information

Why join WM New Zealand?

• Opportunity to work on meaningful projects that deliver real business impact
• Ongoing learning, development, and career progression opportunities
• Flexible working arrangements that support work-life balance
• Onsite café and parking for everyday convenience

At WM, we invest in our people - because they are our greatest asset.

Ready to make an impact?

If you’re excited about building modern data solutions and want to be part of a team shaping the future of data at WM New Zealand, we’d love to hear from you.

WM New Zealand is an equal opportunity employer committed to maintaining a safe and drug and alcohol-free workplace.

Applicants must be based in New Zealand and hold current NZ work rights (citizenship, residency, or valid work visa).