Senior Purchasing Agent

Public School of North Carolina•Charlotte, NC

62d

About The Position

The senior purchasing agent, under intermittent supervision, performs highly complex work with limited decision-making discretion planning and implementing procurement programs and activities. Position is responsible for ensuring the purchase of supplies, materials, and equipment is in accordance with North Carolina Statutes and CMS Board Policies. Employee performs advanced work to carry out Board of Education policies and procedures as a subject matter expert in governmental purchasing.

Requirements

Comprehensive in-depth knowledge and understanding of the principles, practices, and procedures of public school system policies and purchasing programs
Comprehensive knowledge of federal, state, and local regulatory requirements applicable to procurement
Thorough knowledge of county and school board policies, procedures, and standards regarding procurement
Thorough knowledge of NC Purchasing and Contract Division rules and regulations
Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles and procedures as applied to accounting procedures, transactions and audits
Knowledge of formal and informal contract bidding processes
Ability to reflect appropriate response to situations, while maintaining a professional and personal demeanor
Ability to learn and use specialized tools, equipment or software related to business needs
Ability to implement local, state, and federal rules, guidelines, and procedures into daily business operations
Ability to reason, make judgments, and maintain effective working relationships
Ability to employ positive communication skills in all settings/mediums
Ability to problem-solve utilizing sound judgment
Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding school system business
Ability to take initiative and work independently
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a deadline-driven, rapidly changing team environment
Bachelor's degree in public administration, business, finance, or related field required
Minimum of three (3) years of increasingly responsible purchasing experience required
Equivalent combination of education or experience

Responsibilities

Adhere to all state, federal, and local laws, policies, and procedures
Implement policies and procedures in compliance with North Carolina General Statutes, Federal Uniform Guidance, CMS Board policies and regulations
Investigate, analyze, and formulate methods for handling special projects/reports
Establish work schedules and assist with prioritizing department work
Evaluate the supplies, equipment, and services requested throughout the district and advise on the most appropriate procurement method and sourcing options
Review requisitions submitted by schools and departments, ensuring compliance and best value
Review specifications for item(s) requiring quotes/bidding
Prepare Invitations for Bid (IFBs), Requests for Quotes (RFQs), and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for the district
Coordinate bids and the purchase of items not on state contract, as required by law, and recommend contract awards as appropriate
Perform comprehensive evaluation of vendors, cost, availability, quality of products, etc. to recommend contract awards
Create and submit electronic purchase orders, invoices, and contracts to vendorsPrepare for year-end-close to ensure transition into the next fiscal year
Develop and deliver cross-functional training of purchasing staff and treasurers/admin support staff
Collaborate with department and school staff regarding specifications, availability of items, purchasing strategies, etc.
Maintain organized records of vendor communication, requisitions, purchase orders and bid folders per retention policies
Maintain historical data to track purchasing trends for budgeting purposes and to recommend opportunities for strategic procurement practices
Complete local, state, or federal surveys and reports accurately and promptly
Resolve problems and issues associated with vendors from the initial purchase order phase to final payment of invoice
Facilitate staff meetings and attend other related meetings as needed/required
Participate in professional development workshops and training
Create an inclusive environment with positive communication/public relations
Perform related work as assigned or required