BCP Purchasing Specialist I

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

2d

About The Position

The Blind Children’s Purchasing Specialist I performs routine (journey-level) purchasing and procurement work to facilitate access to Blind Children’s Vocational Discovery and Development Program (BCVDDP) services. In collaboration with the team of the Blind Children's Specialist and the BCP Service Specialist, the Blind Children’s Purchasing Specialist I purchases goods and services for children enrolled in BCP services. The BCP Purchasing Specialist I works with internal (HHSC PCS or Accounts Payable) and external partners, including  parents, medical providers, and contractors/vendors. Provides guidance to others regarding purchasing policy. Works under moderate supervision from the Purchasing Manager, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Requirements

• Knowledge of comparable benefits for medical services
• Knowledge of State of Texas contracting and procurement requirements
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws relating to program responsibilities.
• Knowledge of contract administration, state purchasing, and both fiscal and programmatic monitoring practices.
• Knowledge of assigned commodities and products on the open market and supply sources.
• Skill in problem solving and in the use of a computer and applicable software including Microsoft Office programs (Word, Outlook and Excel).
• Skill in managing multiple and competing priorities
• Skill in identifying problems, evaluating alternatives, and implementing solutions
• Skill in organizing, coordinating, and directing projects and reports
• Skill in communicating effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Skill in understanding and applying policies and procedures.
• Skill in working collaboratively and cooperatively with diverse groups including individuals seeking services, contractors, vendors, internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to perform arithmetical computations
• Ability to obtain quotes and evaluate bids
• Ability to develop methods and procedures for locating supply sources
• Ability to maintain a system of recordkeeping
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with vendors and suppliers
• Ability to understand, interpret and apply rules, regulations, policies and procedures
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to independently plan, organize, prioritize and manage multiple work assignments.
• High School diploma or equivalent
• Two (2) years of experience in purchasing, accounting or contracting for a City, State or Federal government agency or an organization that adheres to strict guidelines and quick turnaround times.
• Two (2) years of experience delivering customer service and technical assistance for purchasing activities.
• Must obtain CTCD certification within six (6) months of employment.

Nice To Haves

• Associates degree or higher
• Experience interpreting and applying Texas statewide procurement requirements to support agency purchasing activities.
• Experience working with individuals with multiple disabilities.
• Experience in quality assurance or contract monitoring activities.

Responsibilities

• Ensures that purchases are appropriate and allowable based on the agency and program rules and policies. Completes and documents all required steps to ensure best value for each purchase including but not limited to obtaining quotes, confirm staff have identified comparable benefits, selecting appropriate procurement method, and issuing service authorizations. Confirm receipt of goods or services from staff or family, validate invoices, and make payment.
• Maintains compliance with HHSC/BCVDDP policies, procedures and best business practices, initiates, tracks and monitors the client purchasing process to ensure goods and services are provided, within program case management data system. Completes research activities to identify appropriate purchases of services to meet child/family’s needs for individual purchases. Ensures payment for services meet agency timelines and payment is recieved by vendors.
• Works to support and meet Quality Assurance (QA) requirements. Prepare and analyze and review reports for QA compliance to include development of actions for case review findings and trends. Assist with identifying case load needs and responding accordingly. Includes all activities ensuring compliance with QA Standards (programmatic and contract oversight and support).
• Participates in program contract management projects and provides input to purchasing management.
• Completes trainings and professional development activities. Assist with preparation of spreadsheets and reports and participates in program development activities, including but not limited to workgroups. Attend and participate in all program meetings. Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED