NHLS High-Paying Careers & Internships | No Experience Jobs

The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) is a critical institution in South Africa’s public healthcare system, providing laboratory services that support the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. As the largest diagnostic pathology service provider in the country, NHLS plays a vital role in managing infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis (TB), malaria, and other health conditions. The organization operates in collaboration with the Department of Health and academic institutions to deliver high-quality laboratory services and contribute to research and innovation.

NHLS offers internship programs , graduate opportunities , and full-time career roles for individuals passionate about contributing to the healthcare sector. These opportunities are ideal for students, graduates, and professionals seeking experience in medical laboratory sciences, healthcare management, IT, finance, human resources, and other fields.

Internships and careers at NHLS provide exposure to cutting-edge medical technologies, laboratory operations, and public health initiatives. The organization emphasizes mentorship, professional development, and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Popular Internship and Career Roles at NHLS

The NHLS promotes diversity, prioritizing youth (18–35), women, people with disabilities, and designated groups (Black, Coloured, Indian candidates) under its Employment Equity Policy.

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Common internship roles suitable for minimal or no experience include:

• Medical Scientist Intern: Assists in diagnostic procedures and research in disciplines like Microbiology, Virology, or Molecular Biology (e.g., Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University).

• Laboratory Assistant Intern: Supports sample collection, preparation, and analysis.

• Data Capturer Intern: Manages health data entry and reporting.

• Administrative Intern: Handles office tasks like documentation and coordination.

• Public Health Intern: Contributes to health initiatives and disease monitoring.

Salaries and Stipends for NHLS Internships and Careers

NHLS internships offer competitive, tax-free stipends, reflecting South Africa’s cost of living in urban centers like Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town. Below are approximate stipend ranges for internships as of 2025 and regional trends for similar programs:

• Medical Scientist Intern: R8,000–R12,000 per month (approx. R96,000–R144,000 annually).

• Laboratory Assistant Intern: R5,000–R7,500 per month (approx. R60,000–R90,000 annually).

• Data Capturer Intern: R4,500–R6,500 per month (approx. R54,000–R78,000 annually).

• Administrative Intern: R4,500–R6,500 per month (approx. R54,000–R78,000 annually).

• Public Health Intern: R5,000–R7,500 per month (approx. R60,000–R90,000 annually).

These estimates align with post indicating NQF Level 7 stipends at R10,500/month and adjust for inflation. Stipends vary by qualification level (NQF 5–8) and program duration (6–24 months). Benefits include training, mentorship, and potential HPCSA registration, but typically exclude health insurance or paid leave due to the temporary nature of internships.

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Requirements for NHLS Internships and Careers

NHLS internships are designed for students and recent graduates with minimal qualifications. General requirements include:

• Education:

  • Medical Scientist Intern: Bachelor’s Degree (NQF 7) in Medical Laboratory Science, Biomedical Science, or related pathology disciplines (e.g., Microbiology, Virology). Only graduates with pathology courses are shortlisted.

  • Laboratory Assistant Intern: Grade 12/Matric with Science or a certificate/diploma in Laboratory Technology or Health Sciences.

  • Data Capturer/Administrative Intern: Grade 12/Matric; a diploma in Business Administration or Office Management is an advantage.

  • Public Health Intern: Diploma or degree in Public Health, Health Sciences, or related fields.

Experience: No prior work experience required (<6 months). On-the-job training provided (e.g., laboratory techniques, data management). Previous academic projects or volunteer work is advantageous.

How to Apply for NHLS Internships and Careers

Application Process

1. Visit Official Portals:

   • NHLS Careers Portal: www.nhls.ac.za or nhls.erecruit.co (primary platform for internship applications).

   • National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD): www.nicd.ac.za (for Medical Scientist Internships).

   • South African Government Jobs: www.gov.za or www.dpsa.gov.za (for broader public sector opportunities).