Buyer

George Mason University • Fairfax, VA

23h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Buyer provides prompt, accurate, and responsive procurement support to the Facilities department by applying the principles of competition to maintain the intent of the public procurement function. This position conducts a variety of procurement activities to include purchasing of goods and services, obtaining bids, developing reliable sources of supply, including fostering relationships with small, woman-owned, and minority firms, and expediting orders. The Buyer provides accurate assistance, advice, and guidance to requesters on procurement issues.
This position is open to current employees only. External applicants will not be considered.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent;
• Certified University Purchasing Officer (CUPO) or equivalent within two years of hire date;
• Demonstrated experience (generally 2+ years) in purchasing; experience in procuring goods and services;
• Demonstrated experience with interpreting/applying policies, procedures, and regulations;
• Experience using spreadsheets and office software applications;
• Knowledge and ability to proficiently use automated purchasing systems (eVA) and issue appropriate purchase orders;
• Knowledge and practical application of procurement law and principles;
• Considerable knowledge of governmental procurement concepts, initiatives, and practices;
• Demonstrated skill in strategic thinking with the ability to exercise sound judgment to make procurement decisions;
• Demonstrated skill in spreadsheets and word processing, preferably Microsoft Office;
• Demonstrated skill in researching and analyzing information;
• Skill in providing effective customer service, including analysis of issues through independent judgment and decision-making;
• Skill in effective and respectful verbal, written, and interpersonal communication; ability to demonstrate tact and diplomacy when communicating with individuals at all levels of the organization;
• Ability to analyze purchase requests, interpret specifications, and determine appropriate procurement methods;
• Ability to multitask and prioritize daily activities; ability to remain organized while working on multiple, simultaneous projects;
• Ability to demonstrate significant attention to detail and perform work with a high degree of accuracy in a fast-paced, customer service-oriented environment;
• Ability to understand and apply procurement policy and standard operating procedures;
• Ability to work effectively with others, both in the department and with external colleagues; ability to work independently, as well as part of a collaborative team environment;
• Ability to execute simple to moderately complex purchase of supplies, equipment, and services;
• Ability to analyze and evaluate quotes/bids and make appropriate purchasing decisions;
• Ability to follow up with end users and vendors to resolve issues;
• Ability to deliver excellent customer service and build strong working relationships.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

Responsibilities

• Issues purchase orders in accordance with university policies and the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia;
• Ensures fair competition when soliciting and evaluating bids and proposals;
• Purchases a wide variety of goods and services, obtains bids and proposals, determines the best procurement methods, and applies knowledge of procurement principles and practices;
• Reviews purchase requisitions submitted by requesters for accuracy and completeness; determines the most suitable procurement method;
• Obtains bids/quotes and/or prepares and develops appropriate solicitation documents (IFB/RFQ/Quick Quote), evaluates and analyzes bids/quotes, and awards contracts;
• Prepares purchase orders promptly and accurately;
• Executes contracts and purchase orders within delegated authority;
• Reviews and approves/disapproves PO pricing changes;
• Performs point-of-sale purchasing with local vendors as needed;
• Maintains working relationships with vendors;
• Keeps up with changes in vendor terms and sets up accounts with new vendors as needed;
• Keeps the department updated on the latest state contract awards and changes, and advises users accordingly;
• Updates and maintains departmental files, including vendor files and state contract master files.
• Serves as a backup for the Facilities Billing Coordinator to enter, review, and complete monthly work order billing.
• Supports the Director in completing other related duties and reports as needed.

Benefits

• Lots of leave, including paid annual leave, paid holidays, paid sick leave, paid two-week winter break (please note – the break employees often receive during the holiday season is not regularly guaranteed and is subject to annual approval);
• Free tuition, up to 12 credit hours during the academic year, and professional development. Yes, you can earn a college education while earning a salary;
• Commuter Choice Transit Benefit;
• Virginia Retirement System Hybrid Plan;
• Patriot Perks discounts to restaurants, events, and more!
• Health/dental/vision benefits;
• Tuition-dependent benefit (restrictions apply).

What This Job Offers

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