Purchasing and Contract Specialist

University City Housing Company; Bryn Mawr (PA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking property management company as a Purchasing and Contract Specialist, where you will lead contract negotiations and optimize purchasing strategies for a diverse portfolio. This role offers the chance to influence vendor relationships and make data-driven decisions that impact the bottom line. With a focus on complex deal-making and strategic analysis, you will manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment. Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for professional growth while contributing to the success of vibrant communities.

Benefits

Comprehensive Health Insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off

Employer-paid Short-term Disability

Voluntary Long-term Disability

Employee Assistance Program

Company Paid Certifications

Apartment Discount

Qualifications

• Experience in contract negotiation and supplier relationship management.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in cost modeling.

Responsibilities

• Lead contract negotiations and develop purchasing strategies.
• Analyze bids and vendor performance to drive purchasing decisions.

Skills

Contract negotiation

Procurement

Vendor management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Project management

Cost modeling

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Excel

Job description

University City Housing Company


Join a fast paced and growing industry! We are a Philadelphia-based Property Management Company with significant real estate holdings in and around the Philadelphia metropolitan area. Our current portfolio consists of 4,000 residential units and 250,000 square feet of commercial space.

We’re seeking a highly skilled Purchasing and Contract Specialist to lead our contract negotiations and purchasing strategies with a focus on delivering a measurable impact to our bottom line. In this role, you’ll drive vendor negotiations, purchasing decisions, and cost analysis to support operations, renovations, and capital projects across our multifamily housing portfolio. You’ll have the opportunity to influence purchasing strategy, build strong vendor relationships, and contribute directly to the success of our communities.

This role is perfect for someone who thrives on complex deal-making, data-driven decision-making, and building vendor relationships that create long-term value.


Purchasing and Contract Specialist Responsibilities:

• Lead contract negotiations with vendors, contractors, and service providers
• Develop purchasing strategies that optimize cost, quality, and delivery timelines
• Manage purchasing for maintenance supplies
• Analyze bids, vendor performance, and cost data to drive smarter purchasing decisions
• Conduct deep analysis of pricing models, supplier performance, and market trends
• Collaborate with property and regional managers to align spending with operational needs
• Maintain contract compliance, insurance documentation, and renewal schedules
• Manage CAPEX projects from inception through completion, including proposal, scheduling, procurement, approval, execution, and final delivery, ensuring the project is aligned with organizational goals

Purchasing and Contract Specialist Qualifications:

• Experience in contract negotiation, procurement, or purchasing (multifamily or construction background preferred) and managing supplier relationships
• Experience in purchasing, sourcing, or supply chain management
• Knowledge of vendor management and service contract structures
• Detail-oriented with strong communication and follow-through skills
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities
• Strategic mindset with attention to detail and a drive for results
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university
• Ability to present and synthesize information concisely
• Strong analytical and organizational skills, proficiency in Excel and cost modeling

Our Comprehensive Benefits Package for Full-Time Employees Includes:

• Opportunities for professional and personal development and career growth
• Competitive Salary
• Comprehensive Health Insurance - Medical, Dental, Vision
• Medical & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Retirement plan – 401(k) with up to 4% employer match
• Paid Time Off (vacation, sick, 9 holidays, 2 floating holidays)
• Employer-paid Short-term Disability
• Voluntary Long-term Disability
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Voluntary Hospital Indemnity Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Annual Awards & Recognition
• Company Paid Certifications & Licensing
• Employee Referral Program
• Apartment Discount Available

Link to our real estate portfolio: www.uchcareers.com/our-properties