Purchasing Agent

Procurement SpecialistCompetitive Compensation & Benefits Package!Position eligible for –Annual incentive bonus planMedical, dental, and vision insurance with low deductible/low cost health planGenerous vacation and sick time accrual12 paid holidaysState Retirement (pension plan)401(k) Plan with employer matchCompany paid life and disability insuranceWellness ProgramsPublic Service Loan Forgiveness Qualifying EmployerSee attachment for additional details.Office Location: Available for Gastonia, NC locationProjected Hiring Range: Depending on ExperienceClosing Date: Open Until FilledPrimary Purpose of Position: This position is responsible for the procurement of supplies, fixed assets, facility improvement, and professional services, which must be completed in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws, ordinances, rules and regulations as defined by N.C. G.S. 143.129 – 143.131. High level working knowledge of state and federal procurement laws, purchasing practices, and quality of goods/commodities and/or services being purchased. High level working knowledge of accounting principles and methods in relation to purchasing needs. Knowledge sufficient to implement established rules and regulations; reviews work for compliance to standards, and may propose procedural changes and/or policy revisions. Performs professional work of advanced difficulty in the technical and administrative functions for the purchasing activities of Local Government, including purchasing and contract administration.Role and Responsibilities:60%: Procurement:Responsible for all purchasing of LME/MCO compliant with statutory requirements controlling purchasing for local governments in NC and LME/MCO policy and procedures.Responsible for equipment leases and maintenance (ex. copiers, cell phones, etc.) as well as contract initiation.Process and track all purchase orders and work with Senior Accountant to assure that budget is available for purchases.Maintain central supply database for all agency locations.Assist staff with online purchases.Provide training guidance and assistance to staff for Financial internal procedures and forms required as needed.Responsible for control and purchases of main agency credit card and various local vendor charge cards.Work with outside vendors and state purchasing to compare pricing and negotiate contracts.Generate and initiate request for proposal or bid processes when appropriate or required per purchasing provisions.Control Fleet fuel account for all vehicles and pin staff assignment.Maintain the integrity of the public procurement process.Analyze current procurement activities and recommend improvements through more efficient procurement methods, e-procurement, privatization, quantity discounts, standardization, value analysis or cooperative purchasing.Prepare and maintain accurate records and documentation on all solicitations, responses, purchases, contracts, correspondence and related follow-up.Confer with consultants, contractors and suppliers to acquaint them with procurement policies and procedures and to obtain information on required products and services.Review and execute purchase orders, contracts, change orders and other documents within delegated authority. Edit requisitions and confer with departments regarding requirements, specifications, quantity, quality and delivery. Recommend alternatives that would result in greater value.20%: Management of Fixed AssetsWork with the Facility Director to schedule and facilitate annual inventory of all agency locationsProvide updated inventory to the Financial Services Specialist for fixed asset maintenance15%: Accounting/General LedgerAssure proper expense account coding of all purchase orders for accounts payable technicianMaintain all purchase order filesRequest W-9s from vendors as required5% OtherAssist auditors during annual fiscal audit as neededPrimary backup to the Account Tech Accounts Payable as neededKnowledge, Skills and Abilities:Strong working knowledge of North Carolina governmental purchasing rules and regulationsGeneral knowledge of accounting and auditing principles and practicesKnowledge of and ability to explain and apply the provisions of the standardized accounting practices adopted by State GovernmentWorking knowledge of accounting softwareAbility to interpret and analyze accounting data and apply that analysis to the departmental or institutional needs and determine compliance with pertinent guidelines, rules, regulations, and lawsAbility to establish and maintain effective working relationships with representatives of related contact agencies, departmental staff, and the general publicExcellent communication skills, both orally and in writingHigh level of accounting skillExcellent computer skills and proficiency in Word, Excel, and OutlookEducation and Experience Required: Associate's Degree in Accounting or Business; AND/OR three (3) years of experience in business or governmental agency.Education and Experience Preferred: Local Government Purchasing CertificationLicensure/Certification Requirements: NA