Procurement Specialist

Idaho Department of Education; Boise (ID); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Idaho Department of Education seeks a Procurement Specialist in Boise to manage end-to-end purchasing, from PO preparation to market research and vendor evaluation.

You will ensure compliance with state regulations, support budgeting, and collaborate with program leaders and finance staff to forecast needs and maintain transparent use of public funds.

Qualifications

• Experience with core procurement activities and PO preparation.
• Ability to conduct supplier evaluation and assess performance.
• Skill in contract negotiation to support fair and cost-effective terms.
• Strong analytical skills for bid comparison and data interpretation.
• Knowledge of public sector procurement regulations and best practices.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration.
• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Proficiency with office productivity and procurement software.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end procurement activities for the department.
• Prepare and process purchase orders and coordinate with internal teams.
• Evaluate suppliers, monitor vendor performance, and maintain records.
• Support contract drafting, negotiation, and pricing analysis.
• Collaborate with program leaders and finance staff to forecast needs and budgets.

Skills

Procurement process

Supplier evaluation

Contract negotiation

Analytical skills

Public procurement regs

Communication skills

Time management

Cross-functional collaboration

Attention to detail

Education

Degree in business / public administration

Tools

ERP software

Spreadsheets

Databases

Job description

Company Description

The Idaho Department of Education is a state agency dedicated to advancing K–12 academic achievement across Idaho. The department supports families, educators, and schools by aligning educational policy with funding to improve student outcomes. As a public service organization, it collaborates with local districts and stakeholders to strengthen teaching and learning statewide. The department is led by the elected Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction, reflecting a strong commitment to community representation and educational excellence. Team members contribute directly to policies and programs that impact students in every corner of the state.

Role Description

The Procurement Specialist is a full-time, on-site role based in Boise, ID. This role is responsible for managing end-to-end procurement activities, including preparing and processing purchase orders, coordinating with internal departments, and ensuring compliance with state procurement regulations and policies. Day-to-day tasks include evaluating suppliers, assisting with contract drafting and negotiation, monitoring vendor performance, and maintaining accurate procurement records and documentation. The Procurement Specialist will analyze pricing, terms, and market trends to support cost-effective purchasing decisions and contribute to budget planning. The role also involves collaborating with program leaders and finance staff to forecast needs, resolve purchasing issues, and support transparent, equitable use of public funds.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience with core procurement activities, including Procurement processes and preparation of Purchase Orders.
• Ability to conduct Supplier Evaluation and assessment, including reviewing vendor qualifications, performance, and compliance.
• Skill in Contract Negotiation, including analyzing terms, conditions, and pricing to support fair and cost-effective agreements.
• Strong Analytical Skills for comparing bids, interpreting data, and supporting evidence-based purchasing decisions.
• Knowledge of public sector or government procurement regulations and best practices.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and external vendors.
• High attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Proficiency with office productivity and procurement-related software (e.g., ERP or financial systems, spreadsheets, databases).
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain, public administration, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Experience in an education or public sector environment is beneficial.