The HSSE Safety Internship in Johannesburg offers a structured and career-focused opportunity for graduates who are passionate about health, safety, security, environmental management, and quality systems. Hosted by TotalEnergies Marketing South Africa, this 24-month internship programme is designed to provide practical exposure within a leading energy and petroleum company operating across Southern Africa.
This opportunity is ideal for unemployed graduates with relevant tertiary qualifications who are eager to gain meaningful workplace experience in a professional corporate environment.
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Employer: TotalEnergies Marketing South Africa (Pty) Ltd
Workplace: Johannesburg – Biermann Avenue
Contract Type: Internship
Duration: 24 Months
About TotalEnergies Marketing South Africa
Established in 1954, TotalEnergies Marketing South Africa (TMSA) specializes in the manufacturing, sales, and distribution of petroleum products across multiple sectors. The company operates more than 547 service stations across South Africa, with additional operations in Namibia and Eswatini.
As part of the global TotalEnergies group, the company is committed to safety excellence, environmental responsibility, and sustainable development. It actively invests in youth development through internship and graduate programmes aimed at building future industry leaders.
Internship Overview
The Intern – HSSE Safety programme falls within the Hygiene, Safety, Security, Societal, Environment, and Quality domain. The successful candidate will be integrated into the HSSE department and exposed to key operational activities aligned with corporate safety and compliance standards.
Programme Objectives
The internship aims to:
- Provide a full and realistic view of workplace culture and corporate expectations
- Integrate academic knowledge with practical professional challenges
- Develop hands-on skills in safety systems and environmental compliance
- Strengthen analytical, communication, and technical competencies
- Prepare graduates for long-term careers in HSSE and related industries
This structured exposure ensures that interns gain valuable industry insight while contributing to organizational objectives.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the HSSE Safety Internship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Educational Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field such as:
- Safety Management
- Environmental Science
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Risk Management or related discipline
- Minimum academic average of 65%
- Grade 12 (National Senior Certificate)
Additional Eligibility Criteria
- 18 years and older
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Less than three years of working experience
Meeting these requirements ensures candidates are academically prepared and eligible for structured workplace training.
Key Skills and Competencies
Candidates applying for this internship should demonstrate strong foundational skills that align with the HSSE environment.
Core Skills Required
- Strong communication skills
- Analytical thinking and attention to detail
- Systems orientation and willingness to learn HSSE tools
- Good interpersonal skills and teamwork capability
- Computer literacy, particularly in Microsoft Office
These competencies are critical in maintaining safety standards, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting environmental and quality management systems.
Exposure and Learning Areas
During the 24-month internship, candidates will gain exposure to multiple aspects of HSSE operations, which may include:
Health and Safety Management
- Risk assessments and hazard identification
- Implementation of safety procedures and compliance standards
- Incident reporting and analysis
- Safety audits and inspections
Environmental and Sustainability Practices
- Environmental impact monitoring
- Waste management processes
- Compliance with environmental regulations
- Support in sustainability reporting
Security and Quality Assurance
- Compliance with corporate security protocols
- Monitoring adherence to quality standards
- Supporting continuous improvement initiatives
This broad exposure ensures interns develop a well-rounded understanding of corporate HSSE systems.
Workplace Environment
The internship is based in Johannesburg at the Biermann Avenue workplace location. Interns will operate in a professional office and operational environment where safety, accountability, and teamwork are core values.
The corporate culture encourages learning, collaboration, and innovation. Interns will work alongside experienced professionals who provide mentorship and guidance throughout the programme.
Career Benefits of an HSSE Internship
An internship within the HSSE domain offers long-term career advantages in various sectors, including energy, manufacturing, construction, and environmental services.
Potential Career Pathways
- Health and Safety Officer
- Environmental Compliance Officer
- Risk and Safety Analyst
- Quality Assurance Specialist
- Sustainability Coordinator
With growing regulatory requirements and increased focus on environmental responsibility, qualified HSSE professionals remain in demand across industries.
Importance of HSSE in the Energy Sector
Health, Safety, Security, and Environmental management play a critical role in the energy and petroleum industry. Companies operating in this sector must comply with strict regulatory standards to ensure:
- Employee safety
- Public safety
- Environmental protection
- Operational efficiency
- Legal compliance
Through this internship, graduates gain first-hand experience in how large organizations manage risk and uphold global safety standards.
Professional Development and Growth
TotalEnergies values diversity and promotes individual growth. The company offers equal opportunity careers and supports inclusive development practices. Interns are encouraged to:
- Participate in training workshops
- Engage in cross-functional learning
- Contribute to process improvement initiatives
- Develop leadership and communication skills
The 24-month duration allows sufficient time for skill-building, performance evaluation, and meaningful contribution.
Who Should Apply?
This internship is suitable for:
- Graduates in Safety Management, Environmental Science, or related disciplines
- Individuals passionate about workplace safety and environmental responsibility
- Unemployed graduates seeking structured workplace experience
- Candidates with strong analytical and communication skills
- Applicants committed to professional growth and continuous learning
If you are looking to build a career in health, safety, environmental management, or quality systems within a reputable organization, this opportunity provides a solid foundation.
Application Preparation Tips
To strengthen your application, consider the following:
- Ensure your academic transcripts clearly reflect your 65% average or higher.
- Highlight any academic projects related to safety, environmental studies, or compliance.
- Emphasize teamwork, leadership, and analytical skills in your CV.
- Demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office tools.
- Clearly indicate your availability and unemployment status.
Preparing a professional and well-structured application increases your chances of selection.
Equal Opportunity and Diversity
TotalEnergies promotes equal opportunity employment and values diversity within its workforce. The organization encourages applications from suitably qualified candidates regardless of background, while maintaining merit-based selection processes.
