Student Trainee (Purchasing)

$45,146 - $58,686/Yr

National Institutes of Health

Part-time,Full-time - Intern

Onsite

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Student Trainee (Purchasing) position at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) offers a unique opportunity for students to gain valuable federal experience while pursuing their education. This internship is designed for individuals who are committed to excellence and possess the energy and enthusiasm necessary to thrive in a dynamic work environment. As a Student Trainee focused on Purchasing, you will be involved in various tasks that support the procurement of technical and scientific laboratory items essential for the institute's operations. This role is ideal for candidates who are currently enrolled in accredited educational institutions and are looking to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting. In this position, you will be responsible for purchasing a range of laboratory items, including centrifuges, drying ovens, dishwashers, constant temperature baths, experimental animals, and microscopes. You will engage in obtaining oral or written quotations under the Request for Quotation method of procurement, reviewing and evaluating bids to determine the lowest bid that meets the specifications and requirements of the solicitation. Additionally, you will prepare correspondence, contractual documents, purchase orders, requisitions, and letters to vendors requesting information about desired items. The role also involves making or recommending purchases for recurring requirements independently, which will enhance your decision-making and analytical skills. This internship is structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience, allowing you to develop skills in procurement processes, vendor communication, and contract management. The position is part of the Excepted Service Appointment, and students must work a minimum of 640 hours prior to graduation to be eligible for conversion to a competitive service position. The promotion potential within this program is significant, with opportunities for advancement based on performance and the specific position being filled within the NHLBI.

Responsibilities

• Purchase technical and scientific laboratory items such as centrifuges, drying ovens, dishwashers, constant temperature baths, experimental animals, microscopes, etc.
• Obtain oral or written quotations under the Request for Quotation method of procurement.
• Review and evaluate bids received to determine the lowest bid meeting the specifications and requirements of the solicitation.
• Consult the requestor before considering any bids offering substitute items or materials.
• Prepare correspondence, other contractual documents, purchase orders, requisitions, and letters to vendors requesting information about desired items.
• Make or recommend purchases for recurring requirements independently.

Requirements

• Must be a current student enrolled in an accredited educational institution from high school to graduate level.
• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale is required throughout the duration of the program.
• Must work 640 hours prior to graduation to be eligible for conversion to the competitive service.
• Must sign a PhD Participant Agreement outlining expectations for the internship prior to entrance on duty.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in procurement or purchasing processes.
• Familiarity with laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.

Benefits

• Access to a range of federal employee benefits depending on the type of position.
• Potential for non-competitive conversion to a career-conditional appointment after successful completion of the program requirements.