Buyer IV

Job Function Summary

Involves acquisition of goods and services including equipment acquisition, contracting for professional services, design and / or construction services, business contracts, maintenance services, consulting and personal services.

Generic Scope

Technical leader with a high degree of knowledge in the overall field and recognized expertise in specific areas; problem-solving frequently requires analysis of unique issues / problems without precedent and / or structure. May manage programs that include formulating strategies and administering policies, processes, and resources; functions with a high degree of autonomy.

Custom Scope

Uses skills as an experienced procurement professional. Works on assignments that are diverse and complex in nature, and requires strong analytical skills necessary to compare and contrast purchasing options. Demonstrates good judgment in selection methods and techniques. Makes independent purchasing decisions. Receives assignments in the form of objectives and determines how to use resources to meet schedules and goals. Identifies risks and responds accordingly. Regularly works on highly complex issues where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of variable factors. Exercises judgment in selecting methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results.

Key Responsibilities

• Drafts and executes complex purchase orders and contracts, utilizing both custom and standard terms and conditions for materials, supplies, equipment, and services (25% of time)
• Drafts complex RFQs (request for quotation) and RFPs (request for proposal), including detailed specifications, terms and conditions, and evaluation criteria (5% of time)
• Negotiates with suppliers for lower prices and better terms, unique terms and conditions as required (10% of time)
• Develops new supply sources to address supply base inadequacies, as needed, and resolves supplier performance issues (5% of time)
• Regularly communicates and leads meetings with organization's customers, reduces risk to the University by ensuring departmental compliance with procurement policy, works in conjunction with end-users to develop specifications for RFQs and RFPs (25% of time)
• Determines quality and cost effectiveness to select goods and services (1% of time)
• Responsible for providing analysis for highly complex purchasing projects dealing directly with major department managers (2% of time)
• Performs complex analysis to determine appropriate source selection (2% of time)
• Participates in professional development and training (2% of time)
• Interprets and applies University policies and procedures for complex situations (10% of time)
• Assists departments in the determination of product requirements (2% of time)
• Analyzes terms and conditions for appropriateness (10% of time)
• Develops spreadsheets and other documentation to support analysis (1% of time)
• May supervise purchasing assistants, lower level buyers, or other administrative staff, including management of staff performance and development, team building and communications, resolution of issues and conflicts, review and approval of work, and hiring

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training
• 5+ years of relevant progressive experience
• Advanced knowledge of the purchasing function
• Advanced ability to communicate complex information to others verbally and in writing
• Advanced ability to read, interpret, develop, and negotiate terms and conditions of contracts
• Advanced level of proficiency in the use of standard spreadsheet and word processing software
• Strong negotiating skills
• Advanced ability to perform cost analysis and planning for major commodities

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced skills in the use of ERP / financial systems (such as Oracle, PeopleSoft, SAP, etc.)
• Knowledge of UC procurement policies, the organization's departments and operations and Federal Acquisition Regulations