Procurement Specialist

Job Summary:
This role is responsible for accurately analyzing, evaluating, and assessing the variables surrounding requests by operating departments within the organization for materials, equipment, supplies, and projects and selecting and implementing the most optimal procurement method available using current technology and best practices. This position is an individual contributor role that reports directly to the Finance Manager. The incumbent is responsible for three legal entities’ procurement.

Responsibilities:
The following essential tasks are intended to provide some context for the position. Any omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
 Procure and assist with major service contracts using the Request for Proposal (RFP) method of sealed competitive bidding in partnership with various department heads. Maintain detailed annual schedule for procurement RFP and bidding.
 Solicits proposals &/or bids and plans procurement activity to secure materials, supplies, and services.
 Organizes and conducts aspects of the procurement process, including choosing the best resource selection method, pre-proposal conferences, and evaluation committees.
 Reviews and drafts all procurement documents, including specification requirements
 Documents vendor performance and reviews specifications for accuracy.
 Enters purchase requisitions and purchase orders accurately and efficiently into Cayenta Financial System
 Prepares bid packages, bid reports, tracking, and conducts opening meetings for bid submittals.
 Review, develop, write, interpret (i.e., MWA Purchasing policy) and implement policies and procedures. Update and advise department heads on business laws, governmental laws (Federal and State) trends, methods, and purchasing practices and procedures.
 Help ensure that operating departments are responsive to changes in any procurement policy by acting as the liaison between purchasing and operations.
 Train and assist department administrative assistants, executive assistants, and staff on purchasing protocols and programs, workflow, and use of computer technology currently in use at the Authority.
 Perform related work as required.
 Performs monthly reconciliations for purchasing cards
 Maintains office supply stockroom inventory and reconciliations

Qualifications:
 Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
o A good understanding of public procurement.
o Ability to prepare RFPs and specification detail and conduct the bid process that adheres to all MWA procurement policies and state law
o Must be able to apply knowledge across various discipline areas within the organization.
o Must be able to handle conflicts and pressures associated with meeting deadlines, handling protests, and preparing bid packages.
o Highly professional with exceptionally high ethical standards.
o The ideal candidate must possess strong written and oral business communication skills.
o They will also possess a solid working knowledge of administrative procedures and proficiency in various computer applications and programs.

 Education And Experience
o High School diploma or equivalent with 2-5 years of procurement experience.
o Associate or bachelor’s degree from an accredited College or University, with a degree in Business, Purchasing or logistics, or a related subject preferred.
o A valid Driver’s license with a clean driving record

Physical Requirements:
 Occasional bending, stooping, crouching, climbing, or balancing
 Ability to lift to waist level, pull, and push up to 40 pounds.
 Use hands to grasp, write, draw, and operate office equipment.