Procurement Specialist

Procurement Specialist IThe Procurement Specialist I's job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, performing entry-level procurement duties as assigned. Work will involve researching and procuring commodities, equipment, and services in accordance with state and federal guidelines, policies, and laws. This position provides proficient purchasing knowledge and skills in performing various standard procurement-related duties within the department. Other responsibilities include, but are not limited to, developing sources, processing requisitions, assisting departments, performing entry-level contract reviews, soliciting and analyzing bids, vendor maintenance, contract file management, record retention, purchasing card administration, reporting, and issuing purchase orders (POs). Other duties as assigned. This is a full-time, exempt position that reports directly to the Director of Procurement Services. This a full-time position supporting Lamar State College Orange. While LSCO serves as the designated employer of record, Procurement staff are physically housed at Lamar University in Beaumont. To foster strong campus relationships, attend institutional events, and participate in training opportunities, staff are expected to work periodically from their home campus on a rotating basis.Duties/ResponsibilitiesMaintains knowledge of State of Texas purchasing methods and procedures, purchasing sources, contract management methods and proceduresReceives and evaluates departmental requisitions, identify potential suppliers (when necessary), analyze and select appropriate procurement method based on established requirements and best value criterionPrepare and execute department POs to ensure compliance with applicable rules and regulations, guidelines, policies, and lawsProvides guidance to departmental personnel on routine issues and concerns related to procurement, referring to a supervisor or more senior procurement specialist on all non-routine procurement issues; monitors and investigates issues and assists with problem resolutionsWorks with departments to prepare and develop specifications for an unlimited range of goods and services; provide assistance to departments in drafting scopes of work for review by senior-level staffPrepares and distributes bid invitations to vendorsReviews and tabulates completed bid evaluations to determine best value and works with Director or senior-level staff to make recommendations for awardActively promotes and champions participation in the states Veteran Heroes United in Business ( Vet HUB ) program initiativesMaintains proper procurement reports, records, and filesAssist with vendor set-up and maintenance in Banner and USASServe as Procurement Card (P-card) Administrator answering department questions, providing training, processing new card requests, reviewing monthly procurement logs to ensure charges align with receipts provided reporting any non-compliance findings to cardholders, budget managers and supervisorsComplies with campus policies and proceduresAbility to maintain high ethical standards, attention to detail, and confidentialityAbility to communicate effectively orally, by phone, in person and in writingAbility to establish and maintain effective work relationships with faculty, staff, and the publicExhibit flexibility and adaptability toward changes in assignments while still meeting deadlinesMinimum/Preferred QualificationsMinimum Qualifications:Associate degree from a regionally accredited college or university is required.At least three (3) years of recent experience in State purchasing and contracting, or related duties.Must possess demonstrated experience in analyzing complex issues and working with multiple deadlines on time-sensitive projects.Must be computer literate and proficient in the use of office computer software, in particular Microsoft Word and Excel, in addition to other standard office equipment, email, internet, and have ability to learn specialty procurement and contract software.Regular and reliable attendance during regular scheduled days and work hours is an essential function of this position.Preferred Qualifications:Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year university with an emphasis in business, public administration or a related field.Knowledge of federal and state purchasing procedures and regulations.Experience working with purchase requisitions and contracts in higher education.Certifications Required:Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD), within eighteen (18) months of hire, must secure and maintain the state-required procurement certificationCertified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM), within twenty-four (24) months of hire, must secure and maintain the state-required contract certificationSupplemental InformationPhysical Requirements: This position requires the ability to remain in a stationary position for most of the time; occasionally visiting other campuses for meetings as-needed; constantly operating a computer or other office equipment.BenefitsWe offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.Part-time employees who work an average of __ hours per week over the course of a year, receive benefits on a pro-rated basis.To learn more details, visit our benefits page.