Summer Internship Programme 2026 – Net Zero Data Science

Ready to own your future? At Scottish Water, our Summer Internship Programme empowers you to gain hands-on experience, tackle real challenges, and contribute to shaping Scotland’s future. This is more than just a summer job – it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. As part of our team, you’ll play a key role in delivering essential services and infrastructure that help Scotland flourish every day. 

You’ll be joining us at a fascinating time, as we transform into a more agile, innovative organisation that delivers outstanding service, provides great value for money, and works in an environmentally sustainable way that goes beyond Net Zero. 

Graduating in 2027? Kickstart your career with a 12-week summer placement and start building your future today. 

What you’ll do 

As a Zero Emissions Carbon Data Science Intern, you will dive into real-world challenges centred on the core of our Net Zero reporting. You will become familiar with the intricacies of our Net Zero reporting, assist in data analysis, identify areas for improvement, and contribute to the streamlining of emission data reporting. 

Your strong analytical brain will give you the ability to gather, interpret, and analyse complex data. Utilising tools such as Excel and Power BI, you’ll be able to extract information from large datasets and multiple sources to drive informed decision-making.  

You'll have a chance to support on interpreting and distilling complex technical information into clear reports and messaging, which you’ll need to communicate to a wide audience in a way that can be understood. You’ll be someone who builds strong, effective working relationships with stakeholders at all levels.  

This is a chance to work on elements that support our Net Zero targets, improve our data experience and see how a business records emission data in real time.  

What’s more, you’ll contribute to broader sustainability projects, such as climate change adaptation and biodiversity, supporting Scottish Water’s comprehensive sustainability goals. This internship offers a unique opportunity to tackle real-world challenges, develop valuable skills, and make a tangible difference in our journey toward sustainability. 

This is a paid summer internship, with an hourly rate of £13.45, aligned with the Real Living Wage. The role is typically full-time (35 hours per week), though we’re open to discussing flexible working patterns where possible. For a 35-hour week, the equivalent annual salary would be approximately £24,574, pro-rated for the length of the internship. 

What you’ll need 

You’ll be in the penultimate year of university, or maybe about to do a Masters. Either way, you’ll be on course for at least a 2:2 degree. And it goes without saying that you will be available for the full placement time: 12 weeks.  

You’ll be studying towards a degree in an environmental or data-led subject, such as Environmental Science, Sustainability, Data Science, or a related field.  

A strong interest in data analysis is essential, as you’ll be working with both environmental data and sustainability projects. 

Most of all, you’ll bring curiosity, enthusiasm, and a real desire to learn – along with the motivation to apply what you’re studying in a practical, real-world environment. 

You’ll need to live within commuting distance of Edinburgh or Stepps as this role will be aligned to one of our key office locations (Fairmilehead and The Bridge). 

In terms of essential requirements? That’s it. 

But here’s the thing… 

We receive thousands of applications for our internship roles each year. So what helps candidates stand out? 

Here are a few things we love to see: 

• CVs that tell us more than just your grades. Show us what you’ve learned, what interests you, and what motivates you. 
• Cover letters that explain why Scottish Water – and why this particular internship appeals to you. 
• Applications that demonstrate our values: Bold, Responsible, Inspiring and Caring. 

Looking out for you 

While the work we do is important, it’s not the only thing that matters. That’s why we support a healthy work-life balance and flexible ways of working where possible. 

You’ll gain meaningful experience, build your professional network, and get a real feel for what a future career at Scottish Water could look like – all while being supported by experienced colleagues who want you to succeed. 

What happens next? 

The closing date for applications is Sunday 8th February. Please submit your CV and a cover letter (maximum 500 words) as part of your application. 

If shortlisted, final interviews will take place during February 23rd to March 13th and yes, you’ll get the chance to ask us plenty of questions too. 

If you accept a place on the programme, you’ll complete pre-employment screening during the Spring, including a criminal record check. 

All interns will start together in June for a 12-week Summer Internship, finishing at the end of August. You’ll take part in an induction, meet fellow interns and colleagues, learn about the organisation, visit operational sites, and hopefully have a lot of fun along the way.