Procurement Professional IV

San Diego State University • San Diego, CA

10h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Procurement Professional IV serves as a senior-level expert and strategic leader for the university’s most complex, high-risk, and high-value procurements. Working independently with a high degree of autonomy, this position oversees campus-wide and multi-departmental sourcing initiatives, develops long-term and system-impacting contracts, and provides expert guidance on procurement strategy and best practices. The role partners closely with senior leadership, campus stakeholders, and external suppliers to shape procurement solutions that align with institutional priorities, regulatory requirements, and financial stewardship. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced procurement professional to influence policy, lead transformative projects, and drive value across the university and CSU system.

Requirements

• Equivalent to a bachelor's degree in a related field and five years of relevant experience.
• Additional experience which demonstrates acquired and successfully applied knowledge and abilities shown above may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis.
• An advanced degree in a related field may be substituted for the required experience on a year-for-year basis.
• Professional certifications in procurement may be required for some positions.
• Expert knowledge of University policies, State Statutes and Codes, and procedures for the procurement of commodities and services.
• Knowledge of information technology and software requirements; application of any governmental requirements or regulations; working knowledge of Oracle.
• Deep understanding of public procurement frameworks, including statutes, regulations, policies, contract law, supply-chain management, and a range of contract delivery and administration methods.
• Experience with financial and analytical techniques such as cost and price analysis, total cost of ownership, benchmarking, forecasting, and spend analysis to evaluate value, reduce costs, and assess vendor financial stability.
• Leads end-to-end procurement activities by shaping solicitations and scopes of work, evaluating bids and proposals, negotiating complex contract terms, and exercising impartial judgment in award decisions.
• Manages multiple high-complexity initiatives simultaneously, leveraging strong project management, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills to deliver results on time, within budget, and in alignment with university objectives.

Nice To Haves

• Procurement program certification such as NIGP-CPP, CPPM, CPM, etc., is desired.
• Completion of some professional procurement certification is preferred.
• Completion of a university level Extended Studies Certificate in procurement, contract management, supply management or equivalent course of study is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the university’s most complex procurements, including large-scale, long-term, and high-risk contracts impacting multiple departments or campuses.
• Strategically source and negotiate contracts, integrating market research, supplier performance analysis, and total cost of ownership considerations.
• Provide expert guidance on procurement policies, legislative mandates, and systemwide initiatives, ensuring full compliance and risk mitigation.
• Develop and implement procurement strategies, process improvements, and training programs for campus and external stakeholders.
• Provide lead work direction, mentorship, and technical expertise to procurement professionals while supporting audits and continuous improvement efforts.

Benefits

• Generous Time Off : 15 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Retirement : CalPERS pension plan with retiree healthcare, and reciprocal agreements with other California public retirement systems, including the UC.
• Health Coverage : Medical, dental, and vision options at low or no cost.
• Education Support : CSU tuition fee waiver for employees and eligible dependents.
• Optional Offerings : FlexCash, life and disability insurance, legal and pet plans.
• Campus & Community : Access to the library, campus events, employee groups, and volunteer and social activities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level