Purchasing Agent I


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Job Category: Exempt

PCLS: 30074

Salary Grade: F

Summary

Incumbents in the Purchasing Agent series obtain pricing through the bid process for the purchase of commodities and services; research marketplace to identify new vendors, new methods of procurement, and stay updated on pricing trends; and advise on contract terms and conditions and policies and procedures.

Reporting and Supervisory Responsibilities

The Purchasing Agent I reports to the Director or the Associate Director of Purchasing.

Typical Functions

  1. Prepares bid sourcing events, evaluates bid proposals, and issues purchase orders.
  2. Confers with University departments regarding requirements, specifications, and deliveries.
  3. Advises departments on purchasing policies and procedures and provides vendor sources.
  4. Reviews and researches purchasing requests.
  5. May involve direct contact with vendors/suppliers.
  6. May train and guide technical/clerical support staff.
  7. Complies with and maintains knowledge of rules, legislations, regulations, standards, and best practices.
  8. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  1. Ability to review and prepare specifications.
  2. Skilled with computers.
  3. Ability to place orders via phone, internet, fax, and/or mail.
  4. Ability to adapt to and manage change.
  5. Ability to handle situations with tact and diplomacy.
  6. Strong organizational skills.
  7. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
  8. Skilled at negotiation.
  9. Ability to apply critical thinking skills.
  10. Knowledge of University policies and procedures regarding purchasing.
  11. Ability to establish and maintain purchasing and other records.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or an equivalent combination of education plus experience is required.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

Employees work indoors and are protected from weather and/or contaminants, but not, necessarily, occasional temperature changes.  The employee is regularly required to sit and often uses repetitive hand motions.

Disclaimer

This position description indicates the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to the position.