Public Sector Procurement Specialist – Construction & Contracts

Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA); Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) in Richmond/Alexandria seeks a Buyer to support day‑to‑day procurement for construction, engineering, and services. The role requires knowledge of public procurement laws and strong sourcing across VPRA projects, with eligibility for a 15% geography pay differential for Northern Virginia.

Ideal candidates have 4+ years of procurement experience, excellent negotiation and analytical skills, and proficiency with MS Office, Adobe, Dynamics 365, and Kahua.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Bachelor's degree or higher preferred in business/public admin/engineering/construction management or related field; or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 4 years of procurement experience in public/government setting.
• Knowledge of VPPA, FAR, and public procurement processes; ability to negotiate for best value.
• Proficiency with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook; familiarity with ERP/PMIS systems.

Responsibilities

• Ensure purchases comply with VPRA policies, applicable law and procedures.
• Manage requisitions and coordinate with departments on requirements and terms.
• Identify diverse and reliable suppliers; promote SBSD/SWaM participation.
• Develop, negotiate, and manage vendor agreements for cost savings and risk mitigation.
• Oversee procurement lifecycle including sourcing, bids, contracts, and change orders.
• Assist with vendor management and bid processes; support closeout and reporting.

Skills

Procurement knowledge

Negotiation

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Independent work

MS Office proficiency

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree in business or public administration, engineering, construction management, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Adobe

Dynamics 365

Kahua

Job description

Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) in Richmond/Alexandria seeks a Buyer to support day‑to‑day procurement for construction, engineering, and services. The role requires knowledge of public procurement laws and strong sourcing across VPRA projects, with eligibility for a 15% geography pay differential for Northern Virginia.

Ideal candidates have 4+ years of procurement experience, excellent negotiation and analytical skills, and proficiency with MS Office, Adobe, Dynamics 365, and Kahua.