Assistant University Purchasing Agent (Construction)

Job Summary

Assist the University Purchasing Manager (Construction) in managing daily procurement functions for the University’s campuses, focusing on construction and facilities operations. The role ensures timely sourcing, purchasing, and documentation of materials and services required for construction and public works projects while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Administer procurement operations across all campuses to ensure compliance with state rules, regulations, and general laws.
• Participate in developing, managing, and implementing programs and standards related to the University’s purchasing policies and procedures.
• Develop and implement contracts and agreements for procurement activities, emphasizing construction and facilities operations.
• Assist in the development and implementation of ERP modules or related procurement software.
• Develop and conduct public bid solicitations (RFIs, RFPs, RFBs, etc.) for construction and public‑works goods and services that exceed defined thresholds, in conjunction with the Purchasing Manager (Construction).
• Prepare purchase order documentation.
• Serve as a liaison between the Purchasing Department and the university community to ensure customer satisfaction.
• Provide guidance on processes and the financial system to maximize departmental benefit.
• Prepare and present management reports on purchasing activities, fund sources, and document utilization.
• Coordinate with project managers and the facilities group on purchase requests and requirements.
• Liaise with external state agencies focused on construction and public works and assist in developing related policies and procedures.
• Conduct training sessions on purchasing policies and procedures, with a focus on construction activities.
• Perform advanced technical work and supervision in the procurement of complex goods or services, including negotiations.
• Evaluate existing procedures and forms, recommending revisions to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
• Provide user‑level information on the automated procurement system and recommend changes to promote efficiency.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Minimum two years of purchasing‑related experience in public or private employment.
• Experience with construction, construction management, operations, and/or public‑works activities (e.g., public‑works bidding, negotiations).
• Strong organizational skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in written communication.
• Experience with Microsoft Office programs, including Word and Excel.
• Problem‑solving abilities.
• Experience with virtual collaboration platforms and enterprise communication software (Google, Microsoft Teams, Webex, Zoom, SharePoint, etc.).
• Ability to work effectively with diverse groups and populations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with PeopleSoft, Workday, or other similar e‑procurement financial systems.

Compensation

Salary range: $65,000 – $74,000 per year. Pay Grade Level 10. Position is exempt (FLSA) and full‑time, permanent, calendar‑year employee.

Work Schedule

Full‑time position with the possibility of a hybrid work schedule after six months of employment.

Department and Location

Purchasing Department, University of Rhode Island, Kingston campus. The role is grant‑funded and does not require an extension.

Application Instructions

Submit an online application at jobs.uri.edu and attach the following PDF documents:

• Cover letter
• Resume

References will be requested by the search committee as needed.