Procurement Manager II

Job Responsibilities

About Our Agency
The South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN) is the state agency that plans, develops, coordinates, and funds services for South Carolinians with the severe, lifelong disabilities of:

• intellectual disability and related disabilities
• autism spectrum disorder
• traumatic brain injury
• spinal cord injury and similar disability

• Coordinates and evaluates solicitations under contract management for compliance with agency policies, state Consolidated Procurement Code and federal regulations. Works closely with agency staff to properly procure items necessary to meet the agency's mission and goals as well as coordinate and with procurement staff at Regional Centers. Participates directly in complex procurements, including consulting with agency personnel concerning procurements for their respective areas, offering assistance in developing scope of work and performance requirements for agency contracts.
• Collaborates with the agency's Engineering Department by serving as the Procurement liaison for construction contracts and related purchases. Supervises and manages solicitations for construction bids up to $500,000, ensuring adherence to guidelines. Determines evaluation methodologies, negotiation strategies, and pricing structures for all solicitations and contracts; leads and oversees the Request for Proposal (RFP) process and conducts pre-proposal conferences with interested vendors.
• Performs fundamental supervisory and leadership functions in accordance with Department policies and procedures, best practices and Federal and State rules and regulations especially with regard to Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) standards. Maintains an effective organizational team and motivates diverse staff to accomplish mission critical operations and objectives. Promotes workforce engagement and staff development. Creates a succession plan for department supervisors. Formulates agency procurement policies and standard operating procedure (SOP's) for the agency. Also identifies critical processes within the Procurement department and develops a strategic plan to complete critical processes by set internal or external deadlines.
• Ensures all agency records related to procurement Solicitation types, Sole Source, and Emergency procurements are complete and comply with State Procurement Code, Regulations, and Audit requirements. Reports any cost savings or avoidance to the Procurement Director monthly. Cultivates strong relationships with vendors to avoid delays in solicitations and contracts. Ensures procurements are supported with proper documentation such as written quotes, justifications, SCBO ads, if relevant; and/or reference to statewide contracts.
• Responsible for maintaining knowledge of legislation, regulations, policies, and procedures governing the procurement of goods and services. Keeps abreast of current funding sources and quality of materials being purchased by analyzing and evaluating factors in awarding contracts and/or creating purchase orders.
• Serves as backup to Procurement Director. Assists with Conduct procurement-related training for Regional Centers to enhance understanding and compliance. Completes at least three (3) courses of continuing SCEIS education.
• Responsible for following all Agency policies and procedures and may be required to perform and/or participates in outcome activities and any other related duties as assigned by supervisor, management or Procurement Director.

• 15 days annual (vacation) leave accrual per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Program

Minimum and Additional Requirements

A Bachelor's degree and experience in procurement and contract management, and a valid drivers license.

Preferred Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree in business management or a related field of study and four (4) years of full-time experience in purchasing and/or inventory control, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Certifications as a Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) or National Institute of Governmental Purchasing Certified Procurement Professional (NIGP-CPP).

Proficient in the Consolidated Procurement Code's rules, regulations, and provisions. Knowledge and familiar with the principles, practices, and terminology of procurement. Strong understanding of project and contract management, inventory control, and supply functions.

Exceptional analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills - both verbal and written. Effective time management and attention to detail in order to complete tasks efficiently.

Additional Comments

About Our Agency: The South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN) is the state agency that plans, develops, coordinates, and funds services for South Carolinians with the severe, lifelong disabilities of intellectual disability and related disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury and similar disability.

EEO Statement: DDSN provides affirmative action and equal opportunity in employment for all qualified persons regardless of race, color, sex -including the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, national origin, age, religion, or disability.

Employment Contingency: Employment is contingent upon our receipt of the following required pre-employment screenings: medical screening – to include a drug screening; State and Federal background criminal record checks (to include FBI fingerprinting), SC Dept. of Social Services’ Child Abuse and Neglect Central Registry screening, and CMS “List of Excluded Individuals/Entities” screening; SC Dept. of Motor Vehicles Driving Record check; and a review of transcripts verifying educational credentials. We reserve the right to rescind this offer in the event minimum requirements are not met to include positions that require certifications and/or licensure, your application is incomplete or inaccurate, or our review of your background uncovers information, including opinions of previous employers and references, which cause us to conclude, at our sole discretion, that you are not suited for the position.

Immunization: If this position requires the applicant to work directly with DDSN consumers, a (2) step PPD testing or QuantiFERON TB Gold testing must be completed prior to beginning employment. All new employees who are healthcare providers are required to provide documentation of immunity or be immunized against measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis, Varicella and Hepatitis B prior to beginning employment.

State Disaster Plan: In accordance with the State's Disaster Plan, which includes hazardous weather, DDSN employees may be required to work in times of an emergency or disaster.

Employee Referral: The South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs supports a Referral Incentive Reward and a Retention Bonus program. You may contact Human Resources for further information.

Supplemental Questions: Supplemental questions are considered part of your official application. Any misrepresentation will result in your disqualification from employment. Please complete the State application to include all current and previous work history and education. A resume may not be accepted nor reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position.