NCDOT HBCU Procurement Intern

State of North Carolina

About The Position

Summer 2026 (May 2026 - July 2026) Full-time Work Schedule, Monday- Friday, 40 hours per week This posting will fill positions 65022872 and 65022873. About the Role: Procurement plays a critical role in ensuring organizations have the goods and services needed to operate efficiently and cost-effectively. Procurement specialists are at the center of supply chain management, vendor negotiations, and contract administration, ensuring compliance, value, and quality. This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to explore the dynamic field of procurement within a collaborative and fast-paced environment. Interns will work closely with procurement teams to learn about sourcing strategies, vendor evaluation, and the broader impacts of procurement on business operations. The N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is dedicated to supporting its Purchasing and Procurement operations by inspiring and cultivating the next generation of talented professionals. Through this internship, NCDOT aims to provide aspiring procurement specialists with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to excel in the dynamic field of purchasing. Interns will gain valuable insights into procurement processes, vendor management, and strategic sourcing, preparing them to make meaningful contributions to the organization and their future careers. Internship Structure for Procurement Office Intern Overview: This 10-week internship (May 26, 2026, to July 31, 2026) provides an immersive and practical learning experience within NCDOT’s Procurement Department. The internship is designed to support the department’s mission of delivering best-value goods and services that enable the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) to connect people, products, and places safely and efficiently. Interns will assist with the solicitation and procurement of goods and services for various NCDOT divisions and business units, gaining firsthand experience in public-sector procurement operations. Emphasis is placed on professional development, skill-building, and exposure to real-world procurement practices with the goal of preparing interns to become viable future employees within NCDOT. NCDOT’s Procurement Department operates with a strong commitment to integrity, fairness, transparency, and compliance with public policy. Interns will work collaboratively with Procurement Specialist I and II staff and contribute meaningfully to day-to-day procurement activities while learning how procurement supports statewide transportation initiatives.

Requirements

Must be a currently enrolled full-time student in a bachelors, masters, or professional level program at an accredited or recently graduated from a North Carolina Historically Black College/University (HBCU) or Minority Serving Institution (MSI) by May 2026.
24 credit hours completed.
Minimum overall GPA of 2.5 (on 4.0 scale)
Has legal right to work in the U.S. and do not need sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

Education Level: Enrolled in or recently graduated from a college-level program.
Majors: Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Economics, or related fields.
Skills: Proficiency in data entry and tools like Microsoft Excel, procurement software, or ERP systems.
Strong analytical skills to synthesize data into actionable insights.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Team-oriented mindset with a collaborative approach.
Attributes: Interest in procurement and supply chain operations.
Adaptability, eagerness to learn, and attention to detail.
Authorization to work in the United States.

Responsibilities

Interns will support Procurement Specialist I and II staff and participate in procurement activities related to less complex commodity purchases and simple service procurements, in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes, Administrative Code, and NCDOT and DOA procurement manuals.
Assist with the solicitation of goods and services for NCDOT divisions and business units.
Support day-to-day procurement processes that ensure timely and compliant acquisition of goods and services.
Assisting with the preparation of procurement documentation for less complex commodity and simple service purchases.
Obtaining required vendor quotes and supporting the development of bid packages.
Preparing and assisting with Requests for Quotes (RFQs), Invitations for Bid (IFBs), and exception documentation.
Drafting memorandums, specifications, and supporting documentation related to procurement initiatives.
Communicating with external vendors, internal staff, and other agencies to ensure procurement requirements are met.
Reviewing bid documentation for accuracy, including specifications, pricing, terms, and delivery requirements.
Assisting with posting and awarding solicitation documents in accordance with Administrative Code.
Supporting vendor conflict identification and resolution processes.
Entering, maintaining, and analyzing procurement and contract data in applicable systems.
Assisting with vendor performance reviews and contract compliance activities.
Collaborating with procurement staff to support purchasing decisions and operational needs.
Demonstrating professionalism and the ability to build effective working relationships with NCDOT employees, management, vendors, and external partners.
Performing additional duties as assigned.