Graduate Employment

Many State sector organisations recruit recent graduates who are just starting off in their careers, and may advertise on a job-by-job basis, or carry out a structured graduate recruitment programme through participating universities.

Employers will usually identify which positions are particularly suited to recently qualified tertiary graduates in the advertisement, but it�s over to you to explore and apply for a range of job possibilities.

What do graduate programmes involve?

Graduate programmes involve induction into the work and culture of an organisation, followed by placement in two or three positions, each lasting up to 18 months, before the graduate takes on a more permanent role.

Some organisations also offer assistance to students completing their degrees and provide for part-time work combined with study leave. Some organisations support students through their final year and provide employment after graduation.

Gaining work experience

Obtaining that first step on your career path with the State sector can sometimes be a challenge if you are new to the workforce. However there are several ways to get over those barriers and build CVs that will catch the attention of recruiters:

  • Internships - are offered by a limited number of Government agencies and on a competitive basis. They are usually available to advanced undergraduate, honours and postgraduate tertiary students returning to university for a final year. Interns work for one summer vacation period and the work they do may contribute to a subsequent thesis or research paper.here.

  • Research work - This gives useful experience and the chance to demonstrate indepth subject or sector knowledge. Opportunities can come from approaching State sector agencies or other appropriate organisations for access to material on topics where an academic research paper could benefit the student and the organisation.

  • Summer or part-time work - arranged by you, or via your university careers advisors. You can search for jobs, check local pay rates, and register yourself with at Student Job Search. Watch out for new developments on that site, as specialised programmes are available from time to time for different categories of jobseeker.

  • Voluntary work - This can help you to build relevant skills or insights into aspects of society, for instance with community, iwi or charitable organisations.

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