Intern Program 2026/2027 - Electrical Engineer - Tiwai Point, New Zealand

Overview

Rio Tinto is inviting applications for an Electrical Engineering internship at the New Zealand Aluminium Smelter in Tiwai Point, near Invercargill. This opportunity is designed for students who want practical industry exposure, value safety, and are eager to contribute in a large-scale operational environment.

The role places you alongside experienced engineers so you can learn how equipment, systems, and processes connect in a real production setting while helping improve safe and reliable operations.

Program Details

This internship sits within a 12-week summer program. Successful interns may have the chance to progress into a graduate role after finishing the program.

About the Workplace

New Zealand’s Aluminium Smelter (NZAS) transforms alumina into aluminium using renewable hydroelectric power, making it one of the lowest-carbon aluminium smelters globally. The site is located on the Tiwai Peninsula in Southland, and most of the alumina used at the plant comes from Rio Tinto refineries in Yarwun and Queensland Alumina Limited. About 90% of the aluminium produced is exported. NZAS is jointly owned by Rio Tinto and Japan’s Sumitomo Chemical Company.

What the Internship Offers

• A workplace where safety is treated as the highest priority
• A base salary aligned to your skills and experience
• Access to annual and sick leave
• Employee discount benefits

Eligibility

This opportunity is intended for penultimate-year students or students in their second or third year of study. Applicants must be enrolled in a minimum bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Engineering with an electrical major. Candidates must also have the legal right to work in Australia or New Zealand, including citizens, permanent residents, and holders of student or postgraduate work visas.

Additional Information

Rio Tinto emphasizes its values of care, courage, and curiosity, and expects applicants to complete all pre-screening questions to be considered. The company also highlights its commitment to respect, inclusion, and a workplace where diverse perspectives are welcomed and valued.

About Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is a global mining and materials business operating across 35 countries. The company produces iron ore, copper, aluminium, critical minerals, and other materials that support the global energy transition and broader economic needs. With 150 years of mining experience, Rio Tinto focuses on innovation, continuous improvement, lower-emission production, and strong environmental, social, and governance standards. It also seeks partnerships that create practical solutions and mutual value.

Respect and Inclusion

Rio Tinto encourages applications from Indigenous Peoples, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, mature workers, people with disabilities, and candidates from culturally diverse backgrounds. The company is committed to an environment where people can be themselves, where every voice is heard, and where all cultures and backgrounds are treated with dignity and fairness.