Buyer Trainee

IdahoPTV; Coeur d'Alene (ID); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

The Idaho Transportation Department in Lewiston is seeking a detail-oriented Buyer Trainee to join our procurement team. This on-the-job learning role offers six months of practical training that prepares you to independently handle purchasing, receiving, and customer service tasks.

As you gain experience with vendors, inventory systems, and internal processes, you’ll transition into the full Buyer classification. A background in purchasing procedures and basic PC skills is preferred.

Qualifications

• Some knowledge purchasing procedures.
• Experience: operating a personal computer; interpreting and applying laws, rules and regulations; preparing detailed written material; collecting and recording information.

Responsibilities

• Purchasing: Select supply sources and make purchases within authorized limits; Locate and pick up supplies from local vendors; Prepare and process purchase orders and requisitions; Determine equipment and service needs and best methods of acquisition.
• Receiving & Inventory: Arrange and track incoming shipments; Maintain and reconcile inventory using a computerized system; Perform physical inventory checks; Unload, verify, tag, and stock incoming supplies; Ensure safe storage of hazardous materials.
• Customer Service: Answer phones and assist walk-in visitors; Advise team members on product availability and procurement procedures; Help resolve procurement-related questions quickly and professionally.

Skills

Purchasing procedures knowledge

Detail-oriented

Inventory systems

Customer service

Job description

Posted yesterday | Apply before October 11, 2026

Description

State of Idaho
Idaho Transportation Department

NOTICE: Applications will be accepted through 11:59 PM MST on the posting end date.

STATE OF IDAHO EMPLOYEES: If you are a current or temporary State of Idaho employee you MUST apply through Luma Opportunities. Applying through the State of Idaho’s external career website will cause duplicate profiles and will slow the processing of your application for a new position.

Are you ready to start a career with long-term potential, hands-on experience, and a strong sense of purpose? The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is looking for a motivated, detail-oriented individual to join our team as a Buyer Trainee in Lewiston. This is a unique opportunity to learn on the job and grow into a full-fledged Buyer role within the department.

What’s in it for you?

This is more than just a stepping stone. As a Buyer Trainee, you’ll receive paid, practical training that prepares you to independently perform the full range of procurement duties in just six months. You’ll gain valuable experience in a fast-paced environment that supports Idaho’s transportation infrastructure—keeping roads open, equipment maintained, and public service moving.

About the Role

This position plays a key role in providing purchasing and procurement support for our mechanic’s shop and other operations. You’ll work directly with vendors, internal teams, and inventory systems to ensure parts, tools, and materials are acquired efficiently and accurately. While auto or parts purchasing experience is a plus, it’s not required—we’re looking for someone eager to learn.

This recruitment is being conducted at two levels,Buyer and Buyer Trainee. Only one position will be filled. Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications for the position to which they apply.

Please note: This position requires a background investigation before a final job offer is made.

Key Responsibilities

Purchasing

• Select supply sources and make purchases within authorized limits
• Locate and pick up supplies from local vendors
• Prepare and process purchase orders and requisitions
• Determine equipment and service needs and best methods of acquisition

Receiving & Inventory

• Arrange and track incoming shipments
• Maintain and reconcile inventory using a computerized system
• Perform physical inventory checks
• Unload, verify, tag, and stock incoming supplies
• Ensure safe storage of hazardous materials

Customer Service

• Answer phones and assist walk-in visitors
• Advise team members on product availability and procurement procedures
• Help resolve procurement-related questions quickly and professionally

Who Should Apply?

If you're:

• Detail-oriented and organized
• Comfortable working with inventory systems and basic logistics
• Ready to learn new skills and grow in a state career
• Committed to providing great internal customer service

...then this position is a great fit for you!

This trainee role is designed to transition into the full Buyer classification. With on-the-job experience, you'll be eligible to move into a more independent and responsible role—setting you up for continued success and career development in the State of Idaho.

Minimum Qualifications

• Some knowledge purchasing procedures.
• Experience: operating a personal computer; interpreting and applying laws, rules and regulations; preparing detailed written material; collecting and recording information.

To learn more about the department, please visit the ITD website . Make a difference in your community and in the lives of the citizens of Idaho! The Idaho Transportation Department does not sponsor work visas.

The State of Idaho offers a robust total compensation package, including medical, vision, and dental insurance; PERSI retirement benefits; paid sick, vacation, and parental leave; and 11 paid holidays per year. For additional information, please visit https://dhr.idaho.gov/information-for-state-employees/ .

EEO/ADA/Veteran:

The State of Idaho is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, political affiliation or belief, sex, national origin, genetics, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact [phone] (TTY/TTD: 711), or email [e-mail] .

Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.