Purchasing Specialist I

Purchasing Specialist performs a variety of purchasing, sourcing, contracting and other duties for the University including the purchase of general consumables as required by University departments to maintain a constant flow of materials and supplies to assigned areas on and off campus.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The Purchasing Specialist will routinely receive, review, and process purchase requisitions for goods and services related to their assigned commodities; in doing so, the individual in this role will be responsible for determining the appropriate and necessary actions required for the acquisition of such goods and services. From time to time, this may involve the management of bidding events, to include: preparation of solicitation documents ( IFB, RFP, RFQ, RFI), issuance or posting of the solicitation, review and tabulation of responses received, and posting of bid awards.
The Purchasing Specialist will be responsible for accurately issuing purchase orders up to $250,000 in value for required goods and services. In an effort to ensure that the University is obtaining the maximum value on each procurement dollar, the Purchasing Specialist will be responsible for promoting the University's values related to purchasing. This work involves managing all procedural aspects of procurement activities within State and Federal laws, North Carolina Division of Purchase & Contract rules and regulations, as well as University policies and procedures.
Regular communication with internal and external customers and stakeholders will be required, as needed. This may involve negotiation between parties, verification of the availability of funds, advising management on proper procedures, and providing input into sourcing opportunities.
Additionally, the Purchasing Specialist may be tasked in assisting with auxiliary functions, such as Purchasing Card activities and eProcurement System Support testing and development.

Desired Minimum Qualifications Education and Experience:

1604-B Lowery Street, Room 114

Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm (or as needed in order to get the work accomplished)

Bachelor's degree or Associate's degree with an emphasis in Business or Accounting preferred, or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.
Two years of experience in procurement is preferred, preferably in the public sector, with specific experience in the preparation of solicitations for the purchase of commodities and services, and in using automated procurement procedures.
Experience in working with Facilities Operations or Information Technology Services commodities is desired.
Professional Certification by a recognized organization preferred, including: Certified Professional in Supply Management ( CPSM), Certified Purchasing Management ( CPM), Certified Public Purchasing Officer ( CPPO), or Certified Professional Public Buyer ( CPPB).
Strong verbal and written communication skills as well as excellent interpersonal skills are required.
Computer literacy is required.

12 months

Please Note: A criminal background check will be conducted on candidate finalist prior to the offer of employment.

If no applicants apply who meet the required competency and T&E requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing an electronic application. The application must be competed in full detail (including work history) for your qualifications to be considered.

Failure to complete the application completely may result in you not being considered for the vacant position.

Your application for the position will not be complete until you receive an online confirmation number at the end of the process of applying for a position.

Winston Salem State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran and National Guard.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at OHR@wssu.edu. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodation in the application and interview process, please call 336-750-2834