Senior Purchasing Agent

Senior Purchasing Agent (260000CS) This position supports Towson University’s procurement mission by sourcing specialized and complex goods and services. The Senior Purchasing Agent independently plans, solicits, evaluates, awards, and administers contracts across a range of categories while ensuring vendor compliance with University System of Maryland (USM) and State of Maryland requirements. The role may collaborate with other USM campuses, approve routine transactions in the absence of senior leadership, and present procurement matters to campus leadership and external audiences. Telework may be available for this position up to two days per week following the completion of 90 days of service in good standing. Responsibilities Independently solicit, evaluate, award, and exercise contract renewals for low to high-dollar-value procurement across categories such as information technology, services contracts, facilities maintenance, construction, commodities, and other goods and services as assigned by the Procurement Director and Associate Procurement Director. Identify and screen new contract vehicles, validate customer sole‑source and emergency justifications, and provide end users with new contract vehicles, pricing, and data. Lead RFP evaluation teams, conduct IFB processes, and process purchase orders, change orders, and contract modifications or amendments. Prepare and review bids and award contracts to the most responsive and responsible bidder. Provide proactive procedural and policy guidance to Procurement customers, ensuring fulfillment of the University’s mission, goals, and schedules while adhering to regulations, BPW advisories, USM Procurement Policies, and best purchasing practices. Advise end users on new technology and contract vehicles as appropriate; consult on tactical issues such as project planning, contracting method selection, optimal source, term, and contract language. Remain current with USM, State of Maryland, and other available contracts to optimize resources for TU clients. Interpret contract/acquisition law and requirements; represent the University in vendor negotiations to resolve issues and ensure best value. Resolve procurement issues between customers and suppliers, including complex contract modifications, disputes, claims, and terminations. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications and Skills Bachelor's Degree with at least two years of procurement‑related experience. Knowledge of Maryland procurement statutes and regulations, Uniform Commercial Code, Towson University and USM Procurement Policies, and public‑sector/higher education purchasing practices. Skill in handling a variety of stakeholders—including campus customers, suppliers, elected/appointed officials, and the public—managing conflict and achieving consensus. Skill in technical writing and public presentations, including persuasive writing and speaking. Ability to organize large amounts of data and quickly assess markets and industries; attention to detail under pressure; capacity to manage competing priorities. Ability to represent the University effectively in public settings and to subordinate personal preferences to group goals. Preferences Two years’ experience procuring information technology, IT consulting, and services related procurement preferred. Experience in higher‑education or public‑sector procurement strongly preferred. Salary and Benefits Targeted salary range at $88,000 – $103,000 annually and full University benefits that include 22 days of annual leave, up to 15 holidays, personal and sick days, excellent health, life, and retirement plans, and tuition remission. This position will be open for a minimum of 14 days. For consideration, please submit a cover letter and resume with your online application. Employment Conditions Organization: Administration & Finance Division. Primary Location: Main Campus. Towson University is a smoke‑free campus. Equal Opportunity Employment Towson University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an email to: View email address on click.appcast.io . #J-18808-Ljbffr TQSolutions