Auditor Les Merritt (Information Systems Audit) Internship
Auditor Les Merritt Internships
Do you have an interest in technology and cybersecurity?
Do you want to help strengthen accountability and security across North Carolina government systems?
The North Carolina Office of the State Auditor is seeking motivated interns to work with the Information Systems Audit team to evaluate information system risks, review IT controls, analyze data, and support audit procedures applied to systems and applications used by state agencies and other related government entities.
The internship program is designed to provide a realistic preview of a career in governmental information systems auditing through practical experience on active audit engagements.
It is essential that applicants have strong communication skills, sound professional judgment, attention to detail, and curiosity about how technology supports business processes.
Who is Auditor Les Merritt?
Auditor Les Merritt served as the State Auditor of North Carolina from 2005 until 2009. Born and raised in Sampson County, he attended North Carolina State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in economics and accounting. After graduating, Auditor Merritt established and operated an accounting firm in Zebulon. He also served on the Wake County Board of Commissioners from 1994 until 1998.
Auditor Merritt became the first Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to serve as North Carolina State Auditor. During his term, he led significant efforts to examine the privatization of the state’s mental health care system and to review the conduct of senior government officials. Following his service as State Auditor, he founded an investment consulting firm and was appointed to the North Carolina State Ethics Commission. Throughout his career, Auditor Merritt demonstrated a strong commitment to ensuring that North Carolina’s government operated with integrity, transparency, and accountability in service to its citizens.
Qualifications
- Rising senior or graduate student majoring in accounting, information systems, computer information systems, cybersecurity, information technology, or a related program from an accredited college or university with a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Basic understanding of business processes, information systems, IT controls, and other cybersecurity concepts
- Proficient with Microsoft Office. Experience with data analysis tools, databases, and data visualization tools is a plus.
Program Details
- Spring 2027
- Competitive hourly rate
- Fulfillment of internship in the Raleigh headquarters office
- Access to a variety of professional development opportunities
- Mentorship opportunities
- Recognition as a Merritt Intern on honorary plaque in OSA Office
How to Apply
Interested candidates should complete the Internship Program Application by clicking the link below.
Attach the 3 following supplemental documents when applying to the internship
- Resume
- Copy of Transcript
- Faculty/professor letter of recommendation(s) – minimum of one
Application Deadline: Friday, October 30, 2026
Candidates selected for interview will be contacted by Monday, November 30, 2026
For questions, contact osa.internprogram@ncauditor.gov