Job Description

Posting number: 190767

Department: Department of Commerce

Job classification: Program Assistant

Posting type: Open

Categories: Economic Development, Internship, Business, Communications

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.

Examples of duties

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.

Supplemental information

This is a part-time position working 15-20 hours weekly.