TotalEnergies Intern – HSSE Operations 2026 in Johannesburg offers graduates a 24-month workplace experience in health, safety and environment.
For graduates in safety and environmental fields, finding structured industry exposure can feel overwhelming. The TotalEnergies Intern – HSSE Operations programme in Johannesburg arrives at a time when real-world safety experience is more valuable than ever.
In South Africa’s energy and petroleum sectors, health, safety, security and environmental (HSSE) standards are not optional extras — they are critical. This 24-month internship offers graduates a chance to step into that responsibility inside a large, established organisation.
A 24-Month Window Into Real Safety Operations
The internship is offered by TotalEnergies Marketing South Africa (Pty) Ltd, based in Johannesburg at the Biermann Avenue office.
TotalEnergies operates in more than 130 countries globally and has been active in South Africa since 1954. Locally, the company runs over 547 service stations and distributes petroleum products across multiple sectors, including operations in Namibia and Eswatini.
That scale matters in HSSE.
Large energy businesses operate under strict regulatory frameworks. Safety incidents can carry serious legal, environmental and financial consequences. Interns entering the HSSE department won’t just observe policies on paper — they will likely see how safety systems are applied, monitored, and audited in real working environments.
Unlike short internships that offer surface exposure, a 24-month contract gives time to understand workplace systems properly. TotalEnergies Intern – HSSE Operations 2026,
What the HSSE Department Actually Does
HSSE stands for Health, Safety, Security, Societal and Environmental Quality. In practice, that means overseeing how a company protects:
- Employees
- Contractors
- Customers
- Communities
- The environment
Within petroleum and energy operations, this can involve site inspections, compliance checks, incident reporting systems, risk assessments, and environmental impact monitoring.
Interns will be exposed to the full activities of the HSSE department. While exact responsibilities will depend on qualifications and department needs, typical exposure may include:
- Assisting with safety audits
- Reviewing incident reports
- Supporting compliance documentation
- Learning internal HSSE tools and systems
- Participating in workplace risk assessments
For graduates in Safety Management or Environmental Science, this bridges the gap between theory and practice. University modules often focus on frameworks and legislation. A corporate HSSE department shows how those frameworks function under operational pressure TotalEnergies Intern – HSSE Operations 2026.
Who Should Consider Applying
The programme is open to graduates with a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as:
- Safety Management
- Environmental Science
- Or a related discipline
The internship is aimed at candidates with less than three years of experience, making it accessible to recent graduates or early-career professionals.
Beyond qualifications, the company lists specific skill requirements:
- Strong communication skills
- Analytical thinking and attention to detail
- Systems orientation and willingness to learn HSSE tools
- Good interpersonal skills and teamwork capability
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These skills reflect the reality of HSSE work. Safety roles are not only technical — they require the ability to communicate policies clearly, report incidents accurately, and work with multiple departments.
Someone who understands regulations but struggles to engage colleagues may find the role challenging. Likewise, analytical thinking is crucial when reviewing safety data or identifying patterns in workplace incidents.
Why HSSE Experience Matters in 2026
Across South Africa, compliance standards in energy, construction and manufacturing industries continue to tighten. Environmental responsibility and workplace safety are no longer background functions — they are board-level priorities.
For graduates entering the job market in 2026, practical HSSE exposure can significantly strengthen a CV. Employers often look for candidates who understand:
- Real compliance processes
- Internal reporting systems
- Workplace culture expectations
- Risk mitigation procedures
This internship aims to provide exactly that — a realistic view of workplace culture and expectations, while integrating academic preparation with professional challenges.
However, it’s important to remain balanced. An internship is a learning opportunity, not guaranteed permanent employment. Future roles will depend on performance, business needs, and available vacancies.
Still, two years of structured exposure inside a multinational energy company can open doors across industries, including mining, logistics, manufacturing and environmental consulting.
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The Workplace Culture Element
One of the stated aims of the programme is to give interns a “full and realistic view” of workplace culture.
That’s often overlooked.
Transitioning from university to corporate life can be a shock. Deadlines are stricter. Reporting lines are clearer. Accountability increases.
In HSSE specifically, documentation accuracy and response times can directly affect operational decisions. Learning these expectations early helps graduates build professional discipline.
TotalEnergies also highlights diversity, individual growth and equal opportunity careers. While every workplace experience is shaped by managers and teams, stated values provide insight into organisational priorities. TotalEnergies Intern – HSSE Operations 2026.
Is this internship paid?
The available information does not specify remuneration. Applicants should confirm this during the recruitment process.
Do I need prior work experience?
The programme is aimed at candidates with less than three years of experience. Prior experience is not required but may be beneficial.
Is the internship only for Johannesburg residents?
The position is based in Johannesburg. Candidates from other regions may need to relocate.
Will I work directly at service stations?
The internship is based at the Johannesburg office, but exposure may include interactions with operational sites depending on departmental activities.
Does the internship guarantee permanent employment?
No. Like most internships, it provides experience but does not guarantee a permanent position afterward.
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