Buyer I ( 226 Days)

• Serve as the District's procurement specialist for the procurement of products, equipment, and services for the Bond/Construction Services division.

• Review and write requests for proposals/bids for products and services as they relate to the Bond/Construction Services division, ensuring compliance with district and federal/special purpose requirements. Furnish technical advice for the preparation and/or revision of specifications.

• Identify and develop sources of supply and services and maintain continuous contact with these sources. Schedule and conduct bid/proposal conferences.

• Receive proposals/bids, conduct, and oversee evaluation committee, prepare analysis using MS Excel tabulation spreadsheets, discuss and determine recommendations including vendors' past performance and qualifications.

• Assist with the negotiation of purchase agreements with vendors, ensuring acceptable quality with adequate deliveries at the best price.

• Edit requisitions and work with departments to coordinate requirements as to the quality, quantity, specifications, and delivery of materials.

• Obtain and analyze quotations on non-standard items and continually audit prices of standard materials and supplies. Make substitution recommendations where savings in cost or better delivery can be realized.

Prepare recommendations and documents presented to the Board of Trustees for approval.

• Works closely with departments for proper documentation and procurement for all related procurements.

As necessary, perform administrative tasks including resolving procurement problems and filing, retrieving, researching, and distributing documents.

• Review and approve purchase orders/transactions. Place and expedite purchase orders for materials and supplies, ensuring compliance with district purchasing requirements. Approve and authorize the issuance of emergency pick-up purchase orders within established practices, regulations, and policies.

• Assist in advising departments concerning deliveries, materials availability, terms, specifications, quotations, and costs.

• Provide support for the district's M/WBE participation goals.

• Provide guidance to schools/departments in securing special items required for special uses.

• Purchase goods and services with proper consideration given to quality, price, and delivery within proper procedures, policies, and requirements.

• Keep abreast of legal requirements and regulations of purchasing for school districts including such federal, state, county, and city laws as may apply.

• Perform all other tasks and duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited university in a related field preferred.

• Three years of related experience (preferred), including an institutional/government or school district purchasing environment or other buying experience.

• Knowledge of the principles, procedures and legal requirements of school district purchasing and contracts is a plus.

• Knowledge of the principles, procedures, and requirements of public and private sector purchasing is a plus.

• Awareness of Texas purchasing and bidding laws.

• Ability to assist in planning and situational analysis.

• Competency to plan and schedule buying for the greatest efficiency of service.

• Effective people skills to interact with all levels of employees, staff members, and the general public.

• Planning and problem-solving/investigative skills as required to research inquiries related to job duties.

• Ability to coordinate multiple projects and assignments; high degree of flexibility required.

• Skills in both verbal and written communication.

• Ability to provide information to staff in a way that maximizes productivity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

• Computer skills, specifically, familiarity with Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office, and Oracle a plus.