People And Culture Intern – Nairobi, Kenya | Full-Time HR Internship 2025

Essential Job Details

Position Title: People and Culture Intern
Location: Nairobi, Kenya (On-site)
Employment Type: Full-Time Internship
Number of Vacancies: 1
Salary: Not specified
Category/Department: Human Resources
Reporting To: People and Culture Officer
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Requisition Number: PEOPL006071

Introduction

An exciting HR internship opportunity has opened in Nairobi, offering a unique chance for aspiring human resources professionals to gain hands-on experience in a globally impactful organization. This full-time HR internship is designed for individuals passionate about supporting talent acquisition, employee engagement, and organizational development in a mission-driven environment. Based in Kenya’s vibrant capital, this role provides a platform to learn and contribute to effective HR systems, ensuring compliance, accuracy, and efficiency in people and culture operations. Ideal for recent graduates or early-career professionals, this HR internship aligns with Kenya’s growing demand for skilled HR practitioners, offering a pathway to professional growth and meaningful impact.

About Mercy Corps

Mercy Corps is a leading global organization driven by the belief that a better world is possible. Operating in over 40 countries, including Kenya, Mercy Corps partners with communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger, more resilient communities. With a focus on disaster response, development, and community empowerment, the organization is committed to creating lasting impact through innovative programs. The Nairobi office serves as a hub for Mercy Corps’ operations in Kenya, supporting a diverse team dedicated to advancing the organization’s mission of service and transformation.

Key Responsibilities

The People and Culture Intern will support a range of HR functions, gaining valuable experience in people and culture operations. Key responsibilities include:

Organize staff files (both physical and digital) to ensure easy retrieval and compliance with audit requirements.
Ensure all staff files are complete, including signed statutory documents and policies, to meet organizational standards.
Sort, label, and file physical documents, such as employee records, forms, and contracts, in designated personnel files.
Upload scanned documents to Mercy Corps’ Human Capital Management (HCM) system or digital repositories, adhering to correct naming conventions.
Receive new hire paperwork, benefits enrollment forms, and other documents, routing them for processing before filing.
Track pending documents requiring signatures or completion to maintain accurate records.
Move digital files to designated archive folders or systems, ensuring accuracy and accessibility.
Maintain a log (spreadsheet or database) of archived boxes and files, including their locations, for efficient record management.
Verify the presence of mandatory documents in personnel files, identifying missing, misfiled, or outdated records.
Input basic data into the HCM system related to filing and archiving activities.
Assist with digital file organization within the People and Culture system to enhance operational efficiency.
Adhere strictly to data privacy regulations and company policies to protect sensitive employee information.
Support the preparation of orientation schedules for new staff members to facilitate smooth onboarding.
Track the onboarding process to ensure completion within one month of a staff member’s start date.
Ensure new staff receive a complete orientation pack upon arrival, supporting a seamless integration into the organization.
Learn actively about safeguarding principles and integrate them into work, including understanding risks and mitigations related to HR operations.
Practice Mercy Corps’ values, respecting the dignity and well-being of participants and team members.
Encourage openness and communication within the team, promoting the use of reporting mechanisms such as the Integrity Hotline for concerns.
Perform additional duties as assigned within the People and Culture Department to support operational needs.

Qualifications and Skills

To succeed in this HR internship, candidates must meet the following requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management, Social Sciences, or an equivalent field.
Membership in the Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM) or certification as a Certified Human Resources Practitioner – Kenya is strongly desirable.
Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to engage effectively with colleagues and stakeholders.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, to manage records and prepare reports.
Confident and articulate, with a detail-oriented and organized approach to tasks.
Team player with the ability to multitask, prioritize, and work in a fast-paced environment.
Enthusiastic and ready to learn, with a passion for serving vulnerable populations, especially children.
Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment, collaborating with diverse teams to achieve organizational goals.
Strong problem-solving skills to address challenges in record management and onboarding processes.
Basic understanding of data privacy regulations to ensure compliance in handling sensitive employee information.
Commitment to Mercy Corps’ values, including respect for the dignity and well-being of all stakeholders.

Company Culture and Values

Mercy Corps fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment that values trust, respect, and innovation. The organization is committed to empowering team members to reach their full potential through ongoing learning and professional development. With a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, Mercy Corps encourages employees to bring unique perspectives to their work, strengthening the organization’s ability to address complex challenges. The People and Culture team upholds principles of accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct, ensuring that all staff are treated with dignity and respect. By fostering a culture of openness and communication, Mercy Corps creates a supportive workplace where team members are motivated to contribute to the organization’s mission of building stronger communities.

How to Apply

Apply now for the People and Culture Intern position in Nairobi, Kenya. To submit your application, please prepare the following documents:

Updated CV detailing your education, skills, and any relevant experience or certifications.
Cover letter explaining your interest in the HR internship and how your qualifications align with the role’s responsibilities.
Copies of academic certificates and, if applicable, IHRM membership or Certified Human Resources Practitioner – Kenya certification.

Applications should be submitted via the official application portal at Mercy Corps Careers. Clearly indicate the requisition number “PEOPL006071” in your application. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer and does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. If you witness or experience any form of misconduct during the recruitment process, please report it to the Mercy Corps Integrity Hotline at integrityhotline@mercycorps.org.

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HR internship, human resources jobs in Kenya, Nairobi job vacancies, people and culture careers, full-time internships in Kenya

Why Choose This HR Internship in Nairobi?

The People and Culture Intern role at Mercy Corps offers a transformative opportunity for aspiring HR professionals to gain hands-on experience in a globally recognized organization. This section provides a comprehensive overview of the role’s significance, its alignment with Kenya’s job market, and the career development opportunities it offers.

The Role’s Impact

As a People and Culture Intern, you will play a vital role in supporting Mercy Corps’ human resources operations, ensuring that systems and processes run smoothly and efficiently. By organizing staff records, supporting onboarding and offboarding processes, and adhering to data privacy regulations, you will contribute to the organization’s ability to maintain a compliant and effective HR environment. This HR internship is particularly impactful in Kenya, where organizations are increasingly prioritizing robust HR practices to support community-focused initiatives.

Career Development Opportunities

This HR internship offers significant opportunities for professional growth, including:

Mastering records management: Develop expertise in organizing physical and digital staff files, ensuring compliance with audit requirements.
Enhancing onboarding processes: Gain experience in preparing orientation schedules and ensuring new staff are fully integrated.
Learning HR systems: Work with Mercy Corps’ Human Capital Management (HCM) system to manage employee data and records.
Building communication skills: Engage with diverse teams and stakeholders, honing your interpersonal and professional communication abilities.
Understanding safeguarding: Learn about safeguarding principles and their application in HR operations, contributing to a safe and inclusive workplace.

With the opportunity to work on real-world HR tasks and collaborate with experienced professionals, this HR internship provides a strong foundation for a career in human resources.

Alignment with Kenya’s Job Market

Kenya’s job market is evolving, with a growing demand for skilled HR professionals who can support organizational growth and community impact. The People and Culture Intern role aligns with this trend by offering a full-time internship in Nairobi, a hub for professional opportunities in East Africa. With a focus on human resources management, this role caters to Kenya’s need for practitioners who can manage employee records, support onboarding processes, and uphold ethical standards in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

As a People and Culture Intern, you will engage in a variety of tasks, including:

Managing staff records: Sort, label, and file physical and digital documents to ensure easy retrieval and compliance.
Supporting onboarding: Prepare orientation schedules and ensure new staff receive complete orientation packs.
Maintaining digital systems: Upload documents to the HCM system and maintain accurate records in digital repositories.
Tracking documentation: Monitor pending documents and ensure all mandatory records are complete.
Promoting safeguarding: Actively learn about and integrate safeguarding principles into your work.
Assisting with HR tasks: Perform additional duties as assigned to support the People and Culture Department.

These responsibilities require a blend of organizational skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to confidentiality, making the role both challenging and rewarding.

Skills Development

The HR internship offers opportunities to develop and refine key skills, including:

Records management: Learn to organize and maintain employee records in compliance with organizational and regulatory standards.
HR system proficiency: Gain hands-on experience with digital HR platforms, such as Mercy Corps’ HCM system.
Communication skills: Enhance your ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and stakeholders in a professional setting.
Safeguarding knowledge: Understand and apply safeguarding principles to ensure a safe and inclusive workplace.
Time management: Prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Problem-solving: Address challenges in record management and onboarding processes with creative solutions.

Work Environment

Based in Nairobi, the People and Culture Intern will work in a professional, on-site environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. Mercy Corps’ commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion ensures that interns from all backgrounds feel valued and empowered. With access to professional development resources and a supportive team, the intern will thrive in a workplace that prioritizes learning, growth, and community impact.

Why Nairobi?

Nairobi is Kenya’s capital and a vibrant hub for professional opportunities in human resources, development, and community engagement. The city’s dynamic business environment, combined with its cultural richness, makes it an ideal location for aspiring HR professionals. The People and Culture Intern role offers the chance to work in a globally connected organization while contributing to Nairobi’s reputation as a center for mission-driven work.

Supporting Mercy Corps’ Mission

The People and Culture Intern plays a critical role in supporting Mercy Corps’ mission to build stronger communities. By ensuring accurate and compliant HR records, supporting seamless onboarding processes, and upholding safeguarding principles, the intern contributes to the organization’s ability to deliver impactful programs. This role is integral to maintaining Mercy Corps’ commitment to accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct.

Application Tips for Success

To stand out as a candidate for the People and Culture Intern position, consider the following:

Tailor your CV: Highlight your education, relevant coursework, and any experience in HR or administrative tasks.
Write a compelling cover letter: Address your passion for human resources and how your skills align with the internship’s responsibilities.
Include certifications: If you are a member of IHRM or hold a Certified Human Resources Practitioner – Kenya certification, feature it prominently.
Emphasize soft skills: Showcase your communication, organization, and teamwork abilities, as these are critical for the role.
Apply early: As applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, submit your application promptly to maximize your chances.

Benefits of the HR Internship

While specific compensation details are not provided, the People and Culture Intern role offers a range of benefits, including:

Professional growth: Gain hands-on experience in HR operations within a globally recognized organization.
Skill development: Build expertise in records management, onboarding processes, and HR systems.
Community impact: Contribute to a mission-driven organization that prioritizes service and resilience.
Collaborative environment: Work with a diverse, inclusive team dedicated to innovation and excellence.
Learning opportunities: Dedicate 5% of your time to learning activities that support personal and professional growth.

For more details on the benefits of working with Mercy Corps, visit Mercy Corps Careers.

The Importance of HR in Kenya

Human resources is a critical function in Kenya’s growing economy, particularly within organizations that prioritize community impact and development. The People and Culture Intern role is at the forefront of this trend, offering aspiring HR professionals the chance to contribute to efficient operations while building a foundation for a successful career. With Kenya’s increasing focus on ethical HR practices, this internship provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic sector.

How This Role Fits into Mercy Corps

The People and Culture Intern is a key member of the HR team, working closely with the People and Culture Officer and other colleagues to ensure smooth HR operations. By supporting records management, onboarding, and safeguarding initiatives, the intern contributes to Mercy Corps’ ability to deliver impactful programs. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about human resources, collaboration, and community engagement.

Preparing for the Internship

To prepare for the People and Culture Intern position, candidates should focus on:

Developing technical skills: Gain proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and basic HR systems.
Building industry knowledge: Stay updated on HR trends and best practices in Kenya.
Enhancing communication skills: Practice clear and professional communication to engage with diverse stakeholders.
Pursuing certifications: Consider obtaining IHRM membership or Certified Human Resources Practitioner – Kenya certification to strengthen your qualifications.

Why This Internship Stands Out

The People and Culture Intern position stands out for several reasons:

Mission-driven work: Contribute to an organization that prioritizes community resilience and development.
Professional development: Gain hands-on experience in HR operations, building a strong foundation for your career.
Global exposure: Work in a globally connected organization with opportunities to engage with diverse teams.
Stable internship: Enjoy the benefits of a full-time, on-site role in Nairobi’s vibrant business hub.

Final Thoughts

The People and Culture Intern position in Nairobi, Kenya, is a transformative opportunity for aspiring HR professionals to make a meaningful impact in a globally recognized organization. With a focus on records management, onboarding, and safeguarding, this HR internship offers both professional growth and the chance to contribute to Mercy Corps’ mission of building stronger communities. By joining this dynamic team, you’ll gain valuable experience in human resources while advancing your career in human resources jobs in Kenya. Apply today to seize this exciting opportunity in Kenya’s vibrant capital.