Buyer/210

The Buyer is responsible for processing the procurement of supplies, materials, services and equipment. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency/institution policy.

Under the direction of the Procurement Director and/or Assistant Procurement Director, this position is responsible for procuring equipment, goods, and services in accordance with the Arkansas State Procurement Code and University Procurement Policies. The procurement process involves formal and informal solicitations, building and maintaining vendor connections, pinpointing cost efficiencies and benefits for the University, and collaborating with applicable departments to ensure their procurement needs are met. Additionally, this role supports internal procurement training and provides information to all University departments on procurement policies and procedures.
Works closely with all University departments regarding their procurement needs.
Effectively communicates and trains University faculty and staff on procurement policies and procedures.
Review purchase requests for compliance with state procurement regulation; processes purchase orders in an automated procurement system. Manages placement of purchase order with vendor including quote and/or contract documentation.
Creates, evaluates, and awards formal and informal procurement solicitations; Prepares specifications for Competitive Bids and Competitive Sealed Bids. Ability to write detailed product and service specifications. Manage bid openings, evaluation criteria, vendor lists. Receives and evaluates bids to determine lowest bid and delivery requirements within cost limits, and awards bid.
Examines, selects, orders, and purchases merchandise at most favorable price consistent with quality, quantity, specification requirements, and other factors.
Expedite and review purchase order invoice(s), return of merchandise, and shipment.
Interviews and works closely with vendors.
Evaluate supplier performance and address any issues or concerns that may arise.
Ensure that all purchasing activities comply with State and University policies and regulations.
Collect and analyze purchasing data to identify trends that lead to a more efficient process and added value.
Maintain precise records of purchases, prices, and supplier details for future reference and analysis.
Understands the role of procurement as it relates to other University business functions, such as Accounts Payable, Finance, Budget, Legal, Information Technology, and Internal Audit.
Remains competent and current through self-directed professional reading, developing professional contacts with colleagues, attending professional development courses, and attending training and/or courses as directed by the Procurement Director.
Contributes to the overall success of the Procurement Office by performing all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Knowledge of purchasing principles, procedures and methods.

Knowledge of state and university purchasing laws and regulations.

Ability to research and draft clear, concise, and competitive purchasing specifications and evaluate product acceptability and/or quality.

Ability to perform basic mathematical computations.

Ability to maintain accurate and systematic procurement records.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with purchasing agents/officials, vendors, and manufacturers.

Knowledge of Automated Procurement System & Image System (Banner Preferred)

Knowledge of Microsoft Office Software

Knowledge of the organization and administration of higher education.

Knowledge of state, federal, and university rules, regulations and procedures.

Ability to work in a diverse and dynamic environment.

Ability to work collaboratively and independently with common goals as a part of a team.

Ability to make sound judgments.

Effective interpersonal communication, writing, and organizational abilities.

Civility in all interactions.

Demonstrate effective follow-up.

The formal education equivalent of a high school diploma; plus two years of experience in merchandising or a related field, including one year in purchasing. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management.

OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.