Purchasing Agent

Responsibilities Develop programs and schedules for standards, specifications, contracts, procurement procedures, inspections, and quality control. Plan central purchasing operations to meet supplies, equipment and material needs of Town departments within approved budget limits. Organize procedures to receive and process department purchase requests. Receive and approve purchasing requisitions. Review specifications for suitability, completeness and consistency. Maintain database of bids and bid waivers reflecting the status of each. Oversee the preparation of bid proposals and approve recommended awards in conformance with established standards. Coordinate with department heads for short and long‑range purchasing needs. Advise department heads on market trends and new technology. Analyze and advise on availability and quality of goods, equipment and services. Negotiate contracts with vendors for purchase of commodities and services. Coordinate receipt and acceptance of purchases. Review change orders and update systems to reflect approved change orders. Maintain inventory of materials and supplies. Develop department budget. Provide training to departments on the procurement process and Town requirements. Prepare narrative and statistical information for the First Selectman, Finance Director and various Town boards upon request. Receive written and verbal instruction from the Director of Finance. Prioritize workload in accordance with standard office procedures. Coordinate purchasing activities with other agencies to effect economies of group buying. Monitor compliance with CHRO and Davis/Bacon Act requirements for covered construction projects. Analyze sales information, conduct surveys and examine equipment and materials. Organize, maintain and upgrade automated and manual files systems for purchasing information. Qualifications Knowledge of centralized purchasing practice and procedures. General knowledge of governmental and municipal procurement policies. Ability to deal effectively and positively with staff members and vendors. Ability to prepare and negotiate detailed specification of materials, supplies and equipment. Ability to perform related mathematical calculations. Ability to supervise. Proficiency in the use of database management programs, spreadsheets and word processing programs. Experience and Training Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Accounting or a closely related field; four to six years of increasingly responsible purchasing experience; and three years in a supervisory capacity. Equal Opportunity Employer EOE #J-18808-Ljbffr