Procurement Specialist I

About the role

This is a specialist-level position within the Office of Procurement that performs purchasing assignments by procuring and expediting a variety of materials, supplies and equipment for use by all County agencies.

Responsibilities

• Develops sources of supply and formal Requests for Quotation for items for use by all County agencies
• Performs vendor contact as well as contact with most County Departments
• Instructs users as to processes and policies within the Office of Procurement
• Prepares detailed specifications for formal bidding, processes purchasing activities, reconciles purchase orders and invoices, and manages inventory control accurately
• Resolves purchasing discrepancies, clarifies bid or requisition issues, and follows up with departments or vendors to ensure timely and compliant outcomes
• Processes purchasing transactions, invoices, tax exemption certificates, and related financial documentation with strong judgment, attention to detail, and accuracy
• Assumes additional responsibilities as assigned and adapts to changing operational needs
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with County departments, coworkers, and suppliers using principles of sound customer service and professionalism
• Maintains purchasing records, uses office equipment and technology, and processes documentation efficiently within established systems
• Communicates effectively, including answering phones, greeting visitors, and maintaining a professional, business-like manner in written and verbal interactions

Qualifications

The minimum experience and training requirements for this position are: Four years of experience in purchasing/contract experience; or Two years of experience as described above and an Associate’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Purchasing, or related field; or An equivalent combination of experience and training.

Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) or equivalent certifications, or the ability to obtain within three years of hire, is also required.

Skills

• Knowledgeable in the use of enterprise resource planning (ERP) software systems
• Working knowledge of Pennsylvania Department of General Services contracts and other cooperative purchasing agreements
• Ability to effectively multitask and manage competing priorities
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and Teams; and the ability to adapt to new software, systems and technology tools as needed
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Physical Demands

Regularly required to stand; walk; sit; see; talk and hear. Significant and repeated use of a keyboard. Must possess and maintain a valid Driver’s License and reliable transportation. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.