Buyer

City of Ventura•Ventura, CA

11d

About The Position

The City of Ventura is seeking a customer service-oriented, detail-focused purchasing professional for the Finance Department. The flexibly staffed position may be filled at the Buyer or Senior Buyer level, depending on the candidate’s qualifications and experience, applicable minimum qualifications, and the City’s needs. The role procures supplies, equipment, and services within assigned commodities, with an emphasis on contract development, negotiation, review, and administration. The position supports purchasing and contract administration in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local requirements, including federal procurement standards under 2 CFR Part 200 where applicable. It also supports contract monitoring, expenditure tracking, renewals, and vendor performance to help ensure contractual obligations are met and public resources are managed responsibly. The Finance Department provides financial resources, information, and services that support City operations and public services. Its 33 staff members work across Administration, Accounting, Financial Services, and Treasury, overseeing municipal functions including purchasing and contracts.

Requirements

Buyer: Education, training, and experience equivalent to completion of two years of college coursework in business administration or a related field, and two years of experience in volume purchasing of specified commodities.
Senior Buyer: Education, training, and experience equivalent to a bachelor's degree in business or public administration, or a related field, and either two years of experience equivalent to that of a Buyer with the City of Ventura or three years of volume purchasing experience including one year with a public agency and some experience with contract agreements.
Depending on assignment, possession of a valid California Class C driver's license may be required.

Responsibilities

Provide City departments with purchasing guidance and information about market trends, product availability, industry developments, and supply conditions.
Evaluate departmental needs and coordinate product samples and demonstrations.
Review purchase requisitions for accuracy and completeness.
Assist departments in developing bid specifications and ensure requirements are appropriate and clearly defined.
Prepare federally compliant solicitations, bids, and proposals, including terms and conditions.
Solicit formal and informal bids, conduct pre-bid meetings and formal bid openings, and evaluate vendor proposals based on cost, quality, and suitability.
Negotiate product and service contracts within assigned commodities and in accordance with applicable federal guidance under 2 CFR Part 200.
Support contract administration to ensure local, state, and federal purchasing requirements are met.
Monitor contract spending, renewals, and legal compliance as part of citywide contract administration.
Resolve purchase order issues and vendor disputes by coordinating with City departments and vendors; expedite orders and process change orders as needed.
Evaluate vendor performance, interview prospective vendors, and assess vendor qualifications and suitability.
May supervise clerical staff and perform other related duties as assigned.