HR Internship at the Commission for Gender Equality

Are you looking to make a significant impact in the field of human resources while championing gender equality? The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) is offering a transformative 12-month HR Internship in Johannesburg, South Africa, designed to empower aspiring HR professionals with hands-on experience in a supportive and dynamic environment.

About the Commission for Gender Equality

The CGE is a cornerstone institution in South Africa’s commitment to gender equality. As an independent statutory body, it addresses, investigates, and promotes issues of gender equality, ensuring that the principles of fairness and equal opportunity are upheld across all sectors of society.

Commission for Gender Equality HR Internship Responsibilities

As an HR intern, you will play a pivotal role in the smooth operation of our Human Resources department. Your responsibilities will extend beyond basic administrative tasks, offering you a comprehensive learning experience in various HR functions. Here’s what you’ll be involved in:

• Providing Administrative Support and Handling HR-Related Queries: You will serve as the first point of contact for HR-related queries, ensuring that all inquiries are addressed promptly and efficiently. Your role will involve organizing and maintaining HR documents, such as employment records and onboarding guides, ensuring they are up-to-date and accessible.
• Managing Documentation and Inquiries Related to Employee Benefits: You will assist in the administration of employee benefits programs, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and leave policies. This includes processing applications, answering employees’ questions, and liaising with vendors to ensure smooth operation of benefits administration.
• Assisting with Recruitment and Termination Processes: Your involvement in the recruitment process will include posting job ads, screening resumes, scheduling interviews, and facilitating the onboarding process for new hires. Similarly, you will assist in the termination process, ensuring that exit interviews are conducted, and that the process complies with legal and company standards.
• Ensuring Compliance with HR Frameworks and Maintaining HR Databases: You will help ensure that all HR activities are in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. This involves updating and maintaining HR databases with sensitive employee information, such as contact details, employment history, and performance evaluations, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality.
• Participating in HR Projects: You will have the opportunity to contribute to various HR projects, such as employee engagement initiatives, diversity and inclusion programs, and training and development sessions. This will allow you to gain hands-on experience in strategic HR areas and contribute to the improvement of HR services.
• Supporting Employee Relations: You will assist in resolving employee issues and promoting a positive work environment. This includes supporting the HR team in addressing grievances, facilitating communication between employees and management, and helping to implement policies that enhance workplace culture.
• Conducting HR Research: You will conduct research on HR trends and best practices, helping the department to stay informed about the latest developments in the field. This may involve gathering data on compensation benchmarks, employee satisfaction, and recruitment strategies.

Who Should Apply?

This HR internship program seeks motivated individuals who are eager to immerse themselves in the dynamic world of human resources. Ideal candidates are those who are not only academically qualified but also possess a blend of skills and attributes that will enable them to thrive in a fast-paced and confidential environment. Here is what they are looking for:

• Educational Background: You should have a Bachelor’s Degree or National Diploma in Human Resources, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Business Administration, or a closely related field. This academic foundation will equip you with the theoretical knowledge necessary to understand the complexities of HR functions.
• Understanding of South Africa’s Labor Laws: Given the importance of compliance in HR practices, a solid understanding of South Africa’s labor laws and regulations is crucial. This knowledge will help you navigate the legal aspects of HR management, ensuring that our practices are both ethical and compliant.
• Strong Communication Skills: Effective communication is the cornerstone of HR. You should possess excellent verbal and written communication skills, enabling you to interact professionally with employees at all levels, convey information clearly, and handle sensitive matters with tact and diplomacy.
• Proficient IT Skills: In today’s digital world, proficiency in information technology, especially HR Information Systems (HRIS), Microsoft Office Suite, and virtual communication tools, is essential. These skills will allow you to manage digital records, analyze data, and facilitate remote communications efficiently.
• Ability to Maintain Confidentiality: HR professionals are trusted with sensitive information. The ability to maintain confidentiality, exercise discretion, and uphold the highest ethical standards is paramount. You should be someone who respects privacy and understands the importance of trust in the workplace.
• Effective Task Management Under Pressure: The ability to manage tasks effectively under pressure, prioritize responsibilities, and meet deadlines is critical in HR. You should be adept at organizing your workload, adapting to changing priorities, and maintaining a calm, focused approach in a fast-paced environment.
• Cultural Sensitivity and Diversity Awareness: With workplaces becoming increasingly diverse, an understanding and appreciation of cultural differences and the ability to foster an inclusive environment are highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate sensitivity to diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
• Initiative and Problem-Solving Skills: We value candidates who are proactive, can think critically, and are capable of innovative problem-solving. Your willingness to take initiative, coupled with your ability to address challenges creatively, will contribute significantly to our HR team.
• Team Collaboration: The ability to work collaboratively within a team, share knowledge, and support your colleagues is essential. You should be someone who thrives in a team environment, contributing to a culture of mutual respect and cooperation.

How to Apply

If you are ready to take the first step towards a rewarding career in human resources with the Commission for Gender Equality, then you are invited to submit your application. Here’s what you need to do:

• Prepare Your Application: Email your comprehensive CV, letter of motivation along with certified copies of your ID and qualifications to: recruitment@cge.org.za. It is crucial to quote the name of the position in the subject line of your email to ensure your application is correctly directed.
• Application Process: Please note that correspondence will be limited to short-listed candidates only. If you possess a foreign qualification, it is essential to include a SAQA evaluation report of your qualification with your application. This step is necessary to assess the equivalency of your qualifications within the South African context.
• CGE’s Hiring Policy: The Commission for Gender Equality reserves the right not to fill the advertised position. As an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, we are committed to the achievement and maintenance of representativity (race, gender, and disability). We particularly encourage White, Coloured, and Indian candidates, as well as people with disabilities, to apply. This initiative is part of our commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within our organization.
• Selection Process: All shortlisted candidates will undergo background checks as part of the selection process. This is to ensure the integrity and suitability of candidates for the role within our organization.

Tip: Common Interview Questions and Winning Reponses

Enquiries:

Should you have any questions or require further information about the application process or the internship itself, please do not hesitate to get in touch with:

Mr. Khuliso Tshivhase
Email: khuliso@cge.org.za
Tel: 011 403 7182

The Commission for Gender Equality HR Internship is more than just a job; it is a chance to grow, learn, and make a difference. Don not miss out on this opportunity to start your career on the right foot, advocating for gender equality and gaining essential HR experience.