Buyer - I

Placer County; Auburn (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Placer County Department of General Services is seeking a Buyer I to support the Procurement Services Division. The role involves purchasing materials, supplies, equipment, and services for County departments through formal and informal solicits, bid evaluations, and contract negotiations.

The ideal candidate will have strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills, with knowledge of purchasing principles and practices, plus experience in public-sector procurement and contract

Qualifications

• Experience in public-sector procurement and competitive bidding.
• Ability to develop specifications and evaluate bids.
• Strong customer service and vendor relationship skills.

Responsibilities

• Purchase materials, supplies, equipment, and services for County departments through formal and informal competitive solicitations and contract administration.
• Manage bid evaluations, contract negotiations, and administration.
• Conduct market research and assess purchasing needs to identify cost-effective solutions.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Negotiation

Communication

Organizational skills

Public procurement

Job description

Placer County Department of General Services is seeking a qualified candidate for the position of Buyer I in the Procurement Services Division. Under general direction, Buyers are responsible for purchasing materials, supplies, equipment, and services for County departments through formal and informal competitive solicitations, bid evaluations, contract negotiations, and administration. Responsibilities include developing specifications, analyzing bids and proposals, recommending contract awards, conducting market research, evaluating vendors, and working with County departments to assess purchasing needs and identify cost-effective solutions.

The ideal candidate possesses strong analytical, communication, negotiation, and organizational skills, along with knowledge of purchasing principles and practices. Experience in public-sector procurement, competitive bidding, and contract administration is highly desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to customer service and the ability to build positive working relationships with County departments, vendors, and the public.

Filing deadline: 12/2/2026 at 5:00PM

Placer County is an equal opportunity employer committed to a workplace free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. All applicants and employees receive fair and equal consideration in every stage of employment. Employment decisions are based on job‑related qualifications and are not influenced by any protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. Refer to our Equal Employment Opportunity Program and Policy Statement (PDF) for detailed information.