Procurement Specialist

Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Two (2) years of experience in a purchasing department or related area

Preferred Experience:

• PeopleSoft experience in a healthcare or research/lab environment highly preferred

Job Summary:

The Procurement Specialist assists the Purchasing Team with the purchase of commodities, equipment, services, and contracts for assigned commodity groups. Responsibilities include processing purchase requisitions, providing telephone assistance and information, and following up with suppliers on prices and deliveries. This role also assists with the development and evaluation of new purchasing contracts and renewals. Works under the direction of the Contract Administrator / Purchasing Supervisor (CA/PS) on a team basis to accomplish the prudent purchase of assigned commodities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Reviews purchase requisitions for approval, completeness, clarity, detail, and correctness.
• Edits requisitions for the purchase of routine items including equipment and services, after review, approval, or advice from CA/PS.
• Prepares purchase orders indicating vendor, items purchased, quantities, pricing, and terms and conditions.
• Places orders with vendors by phone, fax, EDI, or other means.
• Ensures vendors quote current accurate contract pricing.
• Negotiates with vendors for price and terms and conditions in conjunction with CA/PS.
• Responsible for data entry of purchase orders, as assigned.
• Contacts appropriate service personnel regarding repairs for equipment and processes necessary paperwork.
• Develops a relationship with the customer/department manager.
• Develops an understanding of the customer/department served, including the customer’s goals and services provided.
• Develops product knowledge about the commodities purchased and keeps abreast of advances in technology.
• Searches for and investigates alternative sources of supply.
• Acts as a specialist for assigned commodities for client departments by supplying information and literature and performing other liaison duties.
• Performs bidding, except for formal Request for Proposals (RFPs), for goods, services, and equipment per policy and procedure.
• Recommends cost-effective alternative products to the CA/PS for review.
• Refers opportunities to purchase more cost-effective goods and services to CA/PS.
• Coordinates with departments, receiving personnel, vendors, and accounts payable to resolve problems encountered with invoices or order delivery.