top of page
Image by Adeolu Eletu

HR Internships

What does an HR intern do?

​

An HR intern is a person who is completing an internship in the field of human resources.

​

HR interns typically assist HR professionals with a variety of tasks, including recruiting and hiring employees, updating employee records, conducting orientation sessions for new hires, and assisting with benefits administration.

​

HR interns may also be involved in projects related to training and development, performance management, and employee relations.

​

The specific responsibilities of an HR intern may vary depending on the size and needs of the organization in which they are working.​

​

Here are some specific tasks that an HR intern might be responsible for:

​

  • Assisting with the recruitment process: This might include posting job advertisements, reviewing resumes and applications, scheduling interviews, and coordinating with hiring managers.

  • Updating employee records: This might involve maintaining hard copy or electronic personnel files, making changes to employee records when necessary (e.g., changes in job title or salary), and ensuring that employee records are kept confidential.

  • Conducting orientation sessions for new hires: HR interns might be responsible for leading orientation sessions for new employees, providing them with information about the company's policies and procedures, and answering any questions they may have.

  • Assisting with benefits administration: This might include helping employees enroll in benefits plans, answering questions about available benefits, and assisting with the claims process.

  • Participating in projects related to training and development: HR interns might be involved in designing and delivering training programs for employees, as well as conducting needs assessments to identify areas where training is needed.

  • Assisting with performance management: This might include helping to develop performance goals for employees, conducting performance evaluations, and providing feedback to employees on their performance.

  • Assisting with employee relations: HR interns might be responsible for handling employee inquiries and concerns, mediating conflicts between employees, and helping to build a positive work environment.

​

What skills are required for an HR intern?

​

There are a number of skills that are important for HR interns to possess, including:

​

  1. Communication skills: HR interns should be able to effectively communicate with a wide range of people, including employees, supervisors, and other stakeholders.

  2. Organizational skills: HR interns should be able to keep track of multiple tasks and projects at once, and should be able to prioritize their work effectively.

  3. Attention to detail: HR work often requires a high level of accuracy and attention to detail, particularly when it comes to maintaining employee records.

  4. Problem-solving skills: HR interns should be able to think on their feet and find solutions to problems that may arise.

  5. Interpersonal skills: HR interns should be able to build strong relationships with employees and other stakeholders, and should be able to handle sensitive situations with tact and diplomacy.

  6. Computer skills: HR interns should be proficient in using computer programs and systems, such as word processing and spreadsheet software, as well as HR-specific software.

  7. Time management skills: HR interns should be able to manage their time effectively and meet deadlines.

  8. Discretion: HR work often involves handling sensitive and confidential information, so HR interns should be able to maintain confidentiality and use good judgment when dealing with sensitive matters.

​

What are the benefits of an HR internship?​

​

There are several benefits to completing an HR internship, including:

  1. Gaining real-world experience: An HR internship provides the opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge learned in the classroom to a professional setting. This can be a valuable learning experience and can help prepare you for a career in HR.

  2. Building a network of professionals: An HR internship can help you build relationships with HR professionals and other industry professionals, which can be valuable when seeking future job opportunities.

  3. Exploring career options: An HR internship can give you a better understanding of the various career paths available in the field of HR and help you determine which areas of HR you might be most interested in pursuing.

  4. Improving your resume: An HR internship can help you develop a range of skills and experiences that can make your resume more competitive when applying for jobs after graduation.

  5. Earning credit: Some schools offer academic credit for internships, which can be a benefit if you are working towards a degree in HR or a related field.

  6. Earning a salary: Many HR internships are paid positions, which can help offset the cost of tuition and living expenses.

​

What are the roles of an HR intern?

​

The specific roles and responsibilities of an HR intern may vary depending on the size and needs of the organization in which they are working. However, some common roles and responsibilities of HR interns might include:

​

  • Assisting with the recruitment and hiring process, including posting job advertisements, reviewing resumes and applications, scheduling interviews, and coordinating with hiring managers.

  • Updating employee records, including maintaining hard copy or electronic personnel files, making changes to employee records when necessary, and ensuring that employee records are kept confidential.

  • Conducting orientation sessions for new hires, providing them with information about the company's policies and procedures, and answering any questions they may have.

  • Assisting with benefits administration, including helping employees enroll in benefits plans, answering questions about available benefits, and assisting with the claims process.

  • Participating in projects related to training and development, including designing and delivering training programs for employees and conducting needs assessments to identify areas where training is needed.

  • Assisting with performance management, including helping to develop performance goals for employees, conducting performance evaluations, and providing feedback to employees on their performance.

  • Assisting with employee relations, including handling employee inquiries and concerns, mediating conflicts between employees, and helping to build a positive work environment.

  • Participating in HR-related projects as needed, such as researching new HR technologies or developing employee engagement programs.

​

How much do HR interns get paid in South Africa?

​

It is difficult to provide an exact figure for how much HR interns are paid in South Africa, as the pay for internships can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of the organization, the industry in which it operates, and the level of experience and education of the intern.

 

In general, internships in South Africa are more likely to be unpaid or low-paid positions, although some paid internships are available.

 

On average HR interns in SA get paid R6997 per month, according to indeed.com, that being said, it is important to carefully review the terms of any internship offer, including any compensation that is provided, before accepting a position.

​

Human Resources internships with CareerStudent

 

Are you a recent graduate or a current student looking to gain practical experience in the field of human resources?

 

If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you.

 

Our HR internship program is designed to provide students and recent graduates with hands-on experience in a real-world HR setting, while also giving them the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in the field.

​​

As an HR intern at our company, you will have the chance to work on a variety of tasks and projects, including assisting with recruitment and onboarding, helping to manage employee benefits and payroll, and supporting HR team members with various administrative tasks.

 

You will also have the opportunity to attend meetings and workshops, and to participate in company-wide events and activities.

​

To be considered for our HR internship programme, you should have strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

 

We are looking for candidates who are proactive, organized, and able to work well in a team.

 

Familiarity with HR software and systems is a plus, but not required.

​

We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and diversity groups.

​

Human resources are viewed as one of the fundamental departments of a business as it is responsible for further enhancing the learning and development of its employees.

 

HR internships involve active participation in the recruitment process and management of a company’s most important resource: its staff.

 

Interns will play a crucial role in the recruitment of CEOs and top executives, program evaluation, management, and gain experience working in an HR department in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, East London, Port Elizabeth, or anywhere across the nation.

You could intern with numerous blue-chip companies or small businesses that will give you the chance to learn first-hand from top industry professionals.

 

We also offer professional HR internships in elite head-hunting companies in some of the most competitive industries in SA.

 

We focus on providing internship providers with talented, driven individuals who are willing to fully take advantage of what an international internship will give them.
 
Job description & responsibilities include:

​

  • Proofreading job listings and vetting resumes and cover letters

  • Arranging interviews, meetings and liaising with several parties

  • Drafting internal policies and working on compensation projects

 

Whether you are looking for experience in a fast-paced for-profit organization or would prefer to apply your knowledge and work for an organization that helps the underprivileged, CareerStudent will customize HR internships that will help you work towards your goals and objectives.

 

So if you are interested in applying for our HR internship, please submit your resume and a cover letter through our online application form.

How It Works

one.png
Send CV

To apply simply fill out the application form below and attach your CV.

two.png
Pass Vetting

Should you qualify, we'll get back to you within 7 days with your Acceptance Letter.

three.png
Induction & Interviews

Pay a R350 programme fee, build your portfolio, and attend online interviews.

four.png
Begin Internship

Gain experience with a student internship in your chosen field across SA.

bottom of page