Purchasing and Safety Intern

Salary: $20.74 Hourly
Location : City Hall, City of Dubuque, IA
Job Type: Intern
Job Number: 555074001-INTERN-052026
Department: Finance
Opening Date: 05/12/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: NREP


Position Summary

GENERAL SUMMARY: The Purchasing & Safety Intern position is available to current students pursuing a degree in business, finance, safety, environmental/occupational health, or a related field. The position provides hands-on experience supporting procurement, financial operations, and workplace safety activities. The intern assists with purchasing reviews, safety inspections, documentation, analysis, and administrative duties across multiple departments.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The intern collects, compiles, and verifies data to support both purchasing and safety operations; reviews bids, specifications, and vendor information; assists with safety inspections and compliance tasks; and maintains accurate documentation. Work includes cross-departmental coordination and participation in team initiatives that support a data-driven, high-performance organization focused on equitable outcomes. The intern communicates regularly with staff, vendors, and the public. Work is reviewed by supervisory staff through reports, conferences, and results achieved.

Job Duties

• Collect, review, and analyze procurement and safety data.
• Assist in preparing and evaluating vendor bids and quotations.
• Support distribution and coordination of Requests for Bids (RFBs) and Requests for Quotations (RFQs).
• Communicate with vendors and contractors to obtain pricing, product, and safety compliance information.
• Assist with the development and review of technical specifications.
• Maintain purchasing and safety records and documentation.
• Assist with safety audits, inspections, and incident documentation.
• Verify information to ensure compliance with purchasing and safety requirements.
• Prepare reports, worksheets, and supporting materials.
• Review departmental procedures related to purchasing and safety controls.
• Participate in team and committee work related to procurement or safety initiatives.
• Perform administrative and support duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Customer and Personal Service - Knowledge of customer service principles and practices.
• Clerical - Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures, record management, and office terminology.
• Mathematical Reasoning - Ability to select and apply appropriate mathematical methods.
• Basic understanding of procurement and purchasing processes.
• Basic understanding of workplace safety principles, hazard identification, and risk assessment.
• Ability to interpret and analyze data accurately.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally.
• Skill in using Microsoft Excel and Word for documentation and analysis.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Completion of at least two years of college coursework in business, finance, safety, environmental/occupational health, or related fields.

Supplemental Information
FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

SUPERVISORY STATUS: None
Our Commitment to You
The City of Dubuque is committed to using a merit-based system in which recruiting, selecting, and advancing employees is based on their relative knowledge, skills, and abilities, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws. Our organization provides equal opportunities for all individuals, fostering a workplace that values innovation, collaboration, and work-life balance. We offer job stability, a comprehensive benefits package, and an opportunity to serve and support our growing community. In accordance with legal obligations our policies and practices are designed to ensure fair treatment and foster a respectful workplace where all are encouraged to apply.
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I completed at least two years of college coursework in business, finance, safety, environmental/occupational health, or related fields.

• Yes
• No

Required Question