Spring Intern Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $15.00 Hourly
Location : Richland County, SC
Job Type: Temporary - Part-Time
Job Number: 190767
Agency: Department of Commerce
Opening Date: 07/20/2026
Closing Date: 8/9/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Class Code:: AH30
Position Number:: 0000000
Normal Work Schedule:: Other
Normal Work Schedule (Other):: Flexible scheduling.
Pay Grade: GEN06
Hiring Range - Min.: $15.00
Hiring Range - Max.: $15.00
EEO Statement: Equal Opportunity Employer
Agency Specific Application Procedures:: Applications are incomplete if you fail to answer all questions, education, and work history. Incomplete applications are not referred to the hiring managers. You may be asked to provide a certified transcript if selected for a position requiring a degree. A background investigation will be conducted after a contingent offer of employment. Please provide an explanation of any gaps of employment. A resume should be attached with your application but not substituted for completing the work history section of the application.
Veteran Preference Statement: South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.
Job Responsibilities
Welcome to South Carolina. The new headquarters of American innovation.
The South Carolina Department of Commerce (S.C. Commerce) is committed to maintaining the state's long-term competitiveness while building a modern economy - one that is diverse, supporting businesses at every phase of their lifecycle, while allowing people to live and work where they love.
As one of 22 cabinet agencies, S.C. Commerce is the state's lead economic development agency. Its mission is to create economic opportunities to increase choices for all South Carolinians, which it does by supporting new and existing businesses and partnerships that fuel emerging industries such as life sciences, headquarters, and advanced energy. To drive the state's advanced energy potential and global impact, S.C. Commerce helped organize the SC Nexus for Advanced Resilient Energy (SC NEXUS), designated as one of 31 federal Technology and Innovation Hubs in 2023. A national leader in foreign direct investment, South Carolina extends its international reach with representation in Europe and Asia, ensuring the state remains a top, global business destination from launch to legacy.
Job Purpose:
SC NEXUS is seeking a highly motivated intern to support key initiatives related to stakeholder engagement, event coordination, research, and operational setup. This role provides an opportunity to gain valuable exposure to energy policies, economic development, and the foundational work of standing up a new division. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, adaptable, and eager to contribute to a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
Job Responsibilities:

• Provide Support to the Executive Director: Coordinate logistics and assist with administrative tasks, preparing meeting materials, special projects, as well as attending the front desk.
• Support Stakeholder Engagement: Attend meetings, conferences, and outreach events with the SC NEXUS team as schedule permits. Assist in preparing event summaries and identifying follow-up opportunities.
• Track Engagement & Compile Reports: Monitor and document engagements with partners, businesses, and academic institutions, and assist in preparing reports on SC NEXUS initiatives.
• Compile Impact & Performance Metrics: Collect project performance metrics, validate funding figures, and track investment announcements and facility expansions.
• Support Research Initiatives: Conduct research on energy policies, industry trends, and funding opportunities. Assist specifically with data entry and detailed research items.
• Information Management: Assist in organizing online files, improving document management systems, and developing standard operating procedures for SC NEXUS.
• Special Projects: Complete ad hoc research assignments or independent projects that support strategic priorities identified by SC NEXUS leadership.

Minimum and Additional Requirements
A high school diploma and relevant program experience. A bachelor's degree may be substituted for the required program experience.

• Current undergraduate or graduate student in business, economics, public policy or administration, energy studies, or a related field.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, SharePoint).
• Interest in energy policies and/or economic development.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills. Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize assignments, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Ability to work independently and as part of a team while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other standard office technology. Ability to conduct research, prepare documents and briefing materials, and support meetings, events, and special projects. Strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and a willingness to learn and take initiative.
Additional Comments
This is a part-time position working 15-20 hours weekly.
Benefits for State Employees
The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies.
Insurance Benefits
Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance, which includes prescription coverage and wellness benefits. Other available insurance benefits include dental, vision, term life insurance, long term disability and flexible spending accounts for health and child care expenses.
Retirement Benefits
State employees are also offered retirement plan options, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Additionally, eligible employees may elect to participate in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program, which is a voluntary, supplemental retirement savings plan offering 401(k) and 457 plan options.
Workplace Benefits
State employees may also be eligible for other benefits, including tuition assistance; holiday, annual and sick leave; and discounts on purchases, travel and more.
Note: The benefits above are available to most state employees, with the exception of those in temporary positions. Employees in temporary grant and time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some or none of these benefits as benefits are associated with each position type. For these positions, contact the hiring agency to determine what benefits may be available.