PROCUREMENT SPECIALIST

Job Summary

Performs advanced professional and managerial work assisting in the leadership, administration, and oversight of the County's procurement program. This position supports strategic direction, ensures compliance with the Virginia Public Procurement Act (VPPA), and manages daily procurement operations, staff, and high-level procurements.

Job Functions

Procurement Management

• Oversees complex, high-value, and sensitive procurements (e.g., construction, professional services, IT systems)
• Reviews and approves solicitations (IFBs, RFPs, RFQs), contracts, amendments, and award recommendations
• Provides guidance on procurement strategy, risk mitigation, and contract negotiation

Policy & Compliance

• Ensures compliance with procurement laws, policies, and internal controls
• Assists in developing, updating, and implementing procurement policies and procedures
• Provides interpretation of procurement regulations and resolves complex or escalated issues

Department & Stakeholder Support

• Partners with departments to plan procurements and align purchasing strategies with operational needs
• Advises leadership on procurement risks, timelines, and compliance considerations
• Ensures transparency, fairness, and integrity in all procurement activities

Training & Program Development

• Develops and delivers procurement training for County staff
• Leads initiatives to improve procurement processes, systems, and service delivery
• Promotes best practices and continuous improvement across the organization

Financial & Operational Oversight

• Monitors procurement activity, contract utilization, and vendor performance
• Supports budget development and provides insight into procurement-related expenditures
• Identifies cost savings opportunities and operational efficiencies

Reporting & Special Projects

• Prepares reports, metrics, and analysis related to procurement performance and compliance
• Leads or supports audits, system implementations, and strategic initiatives
• Assists with Board agenda items and procurement approvals as needed

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Comprehensive knowledge of the Virginia Public Procurement Act and public procurement practices
• Strong understanding of contract law, negotiations, and public sector purchasing
• Ability to manage complex procurements and competing priorities
• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with diverse stakeholders

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, finance, public administration, or related field preferred
• Minimum of 3 years of procurement experience, preferably in local government

Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Must possess satisfactory results of a criminal history background check. Must possess a valid Virginia driver's license. Test and obtain CPPB (Certified Professional Public Buyer) certification and Virginia Contracting Officer (VCO) certification within a specified range from date of hire.

Working Conditions & Disclaimer

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position classifies the physical exertion requirements as moderate. Must be able to lift 10-20 pounds. Must be able to operate office and computer equipment; may involve moderate physical effort in light work involving stooping, kneeling, crouching, lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of object and materials of moderate weight.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Essential functions are regularly performed in an office setting without exposure to adverse environmental conditions.

Disclaimer

The above information in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performance by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications as required of employees assigned to this job. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Culpeper County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

General Sign-off: The employee is expected to adhere to all County policies and to act as a role model in the adherence to the policies.