If you’re passionate about making a positive impact through a career in human resources and have a heart for humanitarian work, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) Southern Africa is offering a unique opportunity to join their HR Internship. This Johannesburg-based role with MSF Southern Africa invites recent graduates in HR-related fields to gain hands-on experience while contributing to the mission of a globally respected medical humanitarian organization.
About Doctors Without Borders (MSF)
Doctors Without Borders (MSF) is an internationally recognized organization dedicated to providing medical assistance to people affected by crises, conflicts, epidemics, and natural disasters. Guided by medical ethics and a deep sense of humanity, MSF has been a steadfast responder to emergencies in over 70 countries. The Southern African division of MSF, headquartered in Johannesburg with an office in Cape Town, addresses the medical needs of vulnerable populations across Southern Africa. Governed by the MSF Southern Africa Association, MSF SA encompasses over 300 dedicated members from seven countries, each united by the organization’s social mission and advocacy for equitable access to healthcare.
Role Purpose: HR Internship
This internship offers a structured pathway to gain in-depth HR experience, working within the Development and Human Resources (DHR) unit. Reporting to the HR Manager and HR Officer, the HR Intern will play a pivotal role in supporting various HR functions, from onboarding to performance and wellness management. This opportunity allows interns to participate in the employee life cycle, manage workforce planning, and assist in implementing MSF’s operational HR plans for Southern Africa.
Key Responsibilities
Workforce Planning and Staffing: The HR Intern will handle various administrative tasks related to staffing and onboarding. Responsibilities include drafting offer letters and contracts, managing employee records, updating organizational charts, and assisting in onboarding processes by creating staff profiles in Bamboo (an HR system). The intern will also be involved in tracking visas for non-South African staff and supporting employee relocations.
Performance Management: Supporting the HR Officer, the intern will monitor evaluation submissions, track contract expirations, and assist with probation evaluations. This includes maintaining a tracker for evaluations and flagging any issues for follow-up, offering a comprehensive overview of MSF’s performance management processes.
Wellness Management: The HR Intern will play a key role in fostering a healthy work environment. This includes organizing monthly wellness events, managing Employee Assistance Program (EAP) queries, and contributing to staff wellness initiatives, such as Wellness Days, in collaboration with the DHR unit.
Benefits and Rewards Management: Working closely with the HR Officer, the intern will assist in payroll preparation and ensure that all new employees are registered for MSF’s benefits. Additionally, they will maintain records of benefits such as flights and school fees, supporting the overall administration of MSF’s benefits offerings.
Employment Relations: The intern will be responsible for maintaining disciplinary records, preparing logistics for hearings, and assisting staff with grievance procedures. This experience provides insight into MSF’s commitment to a fair and supportive workplace.
General HR Administration: Beyond these specific areas, the HR Intern will assist in a variety of HR functions, from event logistics and survey coordination to preparing monthly HR reports. MSF encourages a collaborative team spirit, where the intern will support colleagues and contribute to the smooth functioning of HR operations.
Candidate Requirements
The ideal candidate for the MSF HR Internship will have:
- A Degree or National Diploma in Human Resource Management, Industrial and Organizational Psychology, or a related field.
- A solid understanding of South African labor laws (such as the LRA, BCEA, and Employment Equity).
- Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to confidentiality.
- A proactive, service-oriented attitude with a willingness to work under pressure and a readiness to assist wherever needed.
Compensation and Benefits
This internship offers a monthly stipend of R5,000 along with full medical aid coverage, a transport allowance, and a cell phone allowance. MSF is committed to providing the resources necessary for success, including workspace, computer access, internet, and other essential supplies.
Duration and Commitment
The internship is structured as a one-year commitment, offering invaluable experience to new graduates eager to enter the HR field. The preferred start date is January 2025.
How to Apply
Prospective candidates should submit their applications by 8 November 2024. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted, and MSF will ensure all applications are handled confidentially in line with their commitment to data protection.
MSF values diversity and is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment. The organization encourages applications from qualified individuals regardless of disability, gender identity, marital or civil partnership status, race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, or other diverse characteristics.
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For recent graduates seeking a meaningful start in human resources, this internship is an opportunity to gain valuable skills while contributing to MSF’s humanitarian mission. Join MSF Southern Africa and take the first step toward a fulfilling HR career in one of the world’s most impactful humanitarian organizations.
