Purchasing Agent

City of Arlington; Texas; On-site; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Procurement Specialist who will play a vital role in ensuring the city acquires supplies and materials efficiently. This position involves effective communication with vendors and city employees, preparing bid documents, and administering contracts. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of local purchasing regulations and have experience in competitive bidding. Join a dedicated team where your contributions will directly impact the city's operations and service delivery.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of local government codes and purchasing policies.
• Skill in identifying vendors and estimating prices.

Responsibilities

• Communicate with vendors and city employees regarding procurement.
• Review specifications and prepare bid documents.
• Administer contracts and resolve disputes.

Skills

Knowledge of state statutes

Knowledge of price quotation systems

Effective oral and written communication skills

Skill in writing specifications

Ability to analyze and investigate data

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

Two years of experience in purchasing

Tools

PC and office equipment

Job description

Under general supervision, responsible for the procurement of supplies, materials, and equipment of the desired grade and quality at prices favorable to the city.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS :

1. Communicate effectively with the public (vendors) and other city employees to answer questions and gather information regarding service, pricing, delivery, invoicing, etc.
2. Review specifications, conduct research, and prepare bid documents in accordance with State statutes; conduct bid openings, evaluate responses, and prepare written recommendations for award by the City Council.
3. Access, input, and retrieve information from the financial system.
4. Fairly administer contracts and resolve disputes related to specifications, product requirements, delivery, invoicing, etc., with departments and vendors.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS :

1. Conduct training sessions in a concise and logical manner for personnel at all levels within the city.
2. Prepare requests for quotations, issue purchase orders, and investigate sources of supply.
3. Prepare special reports and perform other related duties as needed or directed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS :

1. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required :

• Knowledge of state statutes, local government codes, municipal ordinances, policies, and procedures related to purchasing and contracting.
• Knowledge of price quotation systems and discounting procedures.
• Knowledge of local vendors, products, services, and market trends.
• Skill in writing specifications for equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Skill in identifying potential vendors and estimating reasonable prices.
• Effective oral and written communication skills for negotiations and problem resolution.
• Ability to interpret detailed information through oral communication.
• Ability to analyze, research, and investigate data and information.
• Proficiency in operating office equipment, including PC, keyboard, CRT, calculator, and telephone.
• Physical ability to perform data entry, sorting, and writing tasks.

Qualifying Education and Experience :

• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
• Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration or a related field.
• At least two years of experience in purchasing, preparing specifications, and conducting competitive bidding, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.