Organisation: SGS South Africa
Locations: Cape Town (Maitland) | Sandton (Woodmead) | Middelburg
Contract Type: Internship / Contract
Closing Date: Rolling — apply as soon as possible

SGS is the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing, and certification company, recognised globally as the benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 97,000 employees operating across a network of over 2,600 offices and laboratories worldwide, SGS offers interns an unparalleled environment in which to launch a professional career. SGS South Africa is currently recruiting ambitious, driven, and detail-oriented young South Africans for four internship positions across its operations in Cape Town, Sandton, and Middelburg.

1. Microbiology Technician Intern — Cape Town (Maitland)

Based at SGS’s Maitland laboratory in Cape Town, this internship is suited to a science graduate eager to gain hands-on experience in a world-class testing and certification environment. The successful candidate will work within a professional laboratory setting, contributing to microbiology testing operations while developing technical and interpersonal competencies.

Candidates must hold a Diploma or Degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or Biochemistry, in addition to a Grade 12 / Matric certificate. The role requires strong organisational skills, the ability to work independently as well as in a team, and a willingness to work overtime and shifts when required. Relevant laboratory experience will be advantageous.

2. Quality Intern — Sandton (Woodmead)

This internship, based at SGS’s Woodmead offices in Sandton, offers a unique opportunity to gain practical exposure to food safety and quality management systems. The intern will support the implementation of the “SmartFoodSafe” food safety and quality management software across TX1 Packing Operations, gaining direct experience with FSMA regulations, GFSI standards, and digital quality system management.

Key responsibilities include transitioning and testing Quality Inspection forms, implementing a CAPA programme, and training operations staff on system use and key performance indicators. Candidates must hold a Grade 12 certificate and a Diploma or Degree in Food Technology, Industrial Engineering, Quality Management, or a related field.

3. HR Intern — Middelburg

The HR Intern will be based at SGS’s Middelburg operations and will provide administrative and project support to the Human Resources department. Responsibilities include assisting with recruitment and onboarding, supporting key HR projects, and maintaining learner records on SharePoint.

The ideal candidate will hold a Grade 12 / Matric certificate and a National Diploma or Degree in Human Resources or Business Administration. Exceptional MS Excel proficiency is essential, along with strong analytical ability, attention to detail, and the capacity to maintain confidentiality. Candidates must be between the ages of 18 and 33.

4. Finance Intern — Cape Town (Maitland)

Also based in Maitland, Cape Town, the Finance Intern will support the SGS finance and administrative function. Duties include liaising with customers, assisting with sample registration, handling documents and invoices, and typing reports, emails, and requisitions in accordance with SGS’s Standard Operating Procedures and Quality Management System.

Candidates must hold a Grade 12 certificate and a National Diploma or Degree in Finance, with proficiency in English and computer literacy in Word, Excel, and Outlook.

General Requirements — All Positions

All four internship opportunities are open to candidates who meet the following criteria:

• South African citizen with a valid South African ID document
• Currently unemployed
• No criminal record
• Willingness to relocate to the relevant city if required
• Strong computer literacy (MS Office: Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• High attention to detail, strong research skills, and exceptional organisational ability
• Self-motivated with a high level of initiative

Please note: If you do not receive a response within two weeks of applying, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.

How to Apply

Click the relevant link below to apply directly on the SGS careers portal:

Microbiology Technician Intern — Cape Town

Quality Intern — Sandton

HR Intern — Middelburg

Finance Intern — Cape Town