Hastings Help Desk IT Intern

This structured internship opportunity at OUTsurance offers unemployed graduates a valuable chance to gain practical, hands-on experience within a dynamic financial services environment. Designed as a work-based programme, it allows individuals to apply the theoretical knowledge acquired during their studies to real-world IT challenges. The internship is a 12-month fixed-term agreement, providing a stipend to support participants as they develop their professional skills and build a foundation for their future careers.

About the Role

This programme is specifically aimed at unemployed graduates who are looking to immerse themselves in an IT support role. As an intern, you will be part of a team dedicated to providing technical assistance and maintaining the smooth operation of IT systems. This is not just a training placement; it's an opportunity to contribute meaningfully while learning from experienced professionals. The company seeks individuals who are keen to align their personal work ethic with OUTsurance's core values, which include delivering awesome service, demonstrating passion, honesty, a human touch, dynamism, and recognising achievement.

The responsibilities within this internship are geared towards developing a well-rounded IT support professional. You will be involved in:

• **Technical Support:** Providing first-level IT support to internal users, addressing hardware and software issues. This includes troubleshooting and resolving technical problems, ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations.
• **System Maintenance:** Assisting with the upkeep of computer hardware and software, ensuring systems are running efficiently. This may involve installations, configurations, and updates.
• **Troubleshooting:** Diagnosing and resolving a range of technical issues, from basic connectivity problems to more complex software glitches.
• **Knowledge Sharing:** Effectively communicating technical information to colleagues who may not have an IT background, translating complex issues into understandable terms.
• **Learning and Development:** Actively participating in training sessions and seeking opportunities to expand your technical knowledge in areas such as networking, databases, and programming languages.
• **Collaboration:** Working closely with other IT team members and across different departments to achieve common goals and support various business functions.
• **Task Management:** Juggling multiple tasks and responsising to support requests while adhering to deadlines, demonstrating effective time management.

What They're Looking For

OUTsurance is seeking motivated individuals who possess a foundational understanding of IT principles and a strong desire to learn and grow. Key attributes and qualifications include:

• **Technical Aptitude:**
• A basic grasp of computer hardware and software functionalities.
• Familiarity with various operating systems.
• Exposure to programming concepts, with knowledge in languages such as Python or C# being advantageous.
• An understanding of fundamental networking principles.
• Basic knowledge of database systems, including SQL and NoSQL.
• Possession of an A+ Certificate is highly desirable.
• **Communication Skills:** Excellent written and verbal communication abilities are essential for clear and effective interaction with colleagues.
• **Problem-Solving Capabilities:** Strong analytical skills to identify the root cause of technical issues and the ability to troubleshoot independently.
• **Teamwork and Adaptability:** A willingness to work collaboratively within a team environment and adapt to the fast-paced nature of IT support.
• **Proactive Attitude:** Initiative to take on new challenges, a proactive approach to identifying potential issues, and an eagerness to stay current with emerging IT trends.
• **Educational Background:** A relevant tertiary qualification such as a B.Sc. in Computer Science & Information Technology/Information Systems, a BCom in Information Technology, a 3-4 year Diploma in Information Technology, or another equivalent IT degree or diploma.
• **Eligibility Criteria:**
• Must be a South African citizen.
• Must not have previously participated in an INSETA or Service SETA internship or learnership programme.
• Must be between the ages of 18 and 35.
• Must have been unemployed for the past 6 months.

This internship operates on a standard Monday to Friday schedule from 08:00 to 16:00, with the potential for weekend work if operational needs arise.

In South Africa, internships like this provide a crucial stepping stone for graduates entering the IT sector. While stipends vary, they are generally designed to cover basic living expenses during the contract period. Companies such as OUTsurance, along with other major insurers, financial institutions, and technology service providers, frequently offer such programmes. Successful completion of an internship can significantly enhance a graduate's CV, opening doors to entry-level positions within IT support, systems administration, or even specialised technical roles, often with clear pathways for further development and career progression.

Take note to qualify for an INSETA/Internship program you need to: 

• Be a South African citizen 
• Not previously part of an internship/learnership with INSETA/Service SETA
• Be between the ages of 18 & 35 
• Unemployed in the last 6 months

B.Sc. Computer Science & Information Technology/Information Systems

BCom Information Technology

Diploma in Information Technology (3-4 years qualification)

Or relevant IT qualification (degree and/ or diploma)

A+ Certificate