Senior Buyer

Senior Buyer

Under general supervision, the Senior Buyer is responsible for administering complex procurement activities in support of the University's academic, research, and administrative operations. The incumbent manages the acquisition of goods and services by developing solicitation documents, conducting competitive procurements, evaluating vendor proposals, negotiating pricing and contract terms, and administering purchasing transactions in compliance with applicable federal, state, local, and University policies, procedures, and regulations. The Senior Buyer performs advanced purchasing functions involving the procurement of commodities, equipment, professional services, and other contractual services through competitive and non-competitive procurement methods. Responsibilities include reviewing departmental purchase requests for accuracy and compliance, determining the appropriate procurement method, issuing purchase orders, conducting formal and informal solicitations, negotiating with vendors, and ensuring economical and timely procurement while achieving best value for the University.

Analyzes requirements for difficult and complex procurements and recommends the appropriate procurement method (sealed bid, competitive proposal, or other authorized procurement methods). Reviews and edits specifications received from university departments; prepares Invitations to Bid (ITB), Requests for Proposals (RFP), Requests for Qualifications (RFQ), and other solicitation documents. Serves as the primary point of contact for procurement and contract inquiries and issues solicitation amendments as needed. Research and evaluates vendors to determine their ability to provide quality goods and services that meet university specifications and standards. Conducts price analyses using historical pricing, independent estimates, market research, and other evaluation criteria; prepares award recommendations and supporting justifications. The position is responsible for reviewing and administering contracts, monitoring vendor performance, maintaining official contract files, and ensuring all procurement documentation is complete to facilitate timely payment processing and audit compliance. The Senior Buyer also serves as a procurement advisor to university departments by providing guidance on procurement regulations, contract requirements, purchasing procedures, and strategic sourcing initiatives. Negotiates contract terms and conditions consistent with applicable procurement laws and university policies. Provides liaison and coordination between university departments and vendors to ensure compliance with contract specifications and timely resolution of procurement and payment issues. The Senior Buyer performs complex administrative and programmatic responsibilities in support of the University's Veteran Heroes United in Business (VETHUB) Program, including coordinating outreach efforts, maintaining program documentation, assisting veteran-owned businesses with procurement opportunities, monitoring participation, and supporting initiatives that promote supplier diversity and veteran business engagement. Research industry trends, supplier capabilities, and market conditions to identify procurement opportunities and best practices. Monitors Interlocal Agreements and Cooperative Purchasing Agreements to maximize procurement efficiency and cost savings. Assists in developing and delivering procurement training for university departments and serves in the absence of the Purchasing Manager or Purchasing Supervisor as needed. The Senior Buyer exercises sound judgment maintains the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct and contributes to the continuous improvement of procurement processes while ensuring transparency, accountability, and compliance with all applicable purchasing regulations. Conducts public pre-bid/proposal/quote conferences and serves as facilitator for evaluation meetings; performs detailed analysis of bids/proposals to determine responsiveness to the solicitation; evaluates bidder responsibility based on financial stability and previous contract performance. Conducts pre-award survey and price analysis by comparing bids with historical pricing information, independent estimates, and other factors; recommends award of contract to the responsive and responsible bidder, including any necessary justification for not recommending the lowest bid in some cases; and performs post-award evaluations. Provides independent liaison and coordination between departments and vendors to ensure compliance with contract specifications and resolution of problems and payment issues, arbitrate claims or complaints occurring in performance of contracts. Researches and stays current on industry standards, types, features and quality of products, suppliers and other information by reviewing catalogs, technical and industrial publications and other resources. Monitors Inter-local Agreements and Cooperative Purchasing Agreements with other public entities for goods and services. Conducts public bid opening and teaches purchasing policies and procedures classes in the absence of the Purchasing Manager and Purchasing Supervisor. Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

% FTE - 1.0

Hiring Range - $80,870.19-$103,109.49

Education - Preferred Bachelor's degree in business administration, Supply Chain Management, Public Administration, Finance, or a closely related field or an equivalent combination of education and directly related experience may be considered.

Required Licensing/Certification - Required: Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) certification and/or Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD) certification, or ability to obtain an applicable certification within a timeframe established by the University. Preferred: Either, CPPB, CPPO, CPM, CPSM, or other recognized procurement certification.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities - Knowledge of: Federal, State, Local, and County laws. Policies, procedures, and practices. Requires full/complete knowledge in multiple disciplines and serves as an ultimate subject matter expert in at least one discipline or function. Demonstrates full command of technical and functional principles, procedures, and subject matter in multiple disciplines to handle any situation and lead or train others. Banner and other job-related software systems. Microsoft Office Professional or similar applications. Skill In: Detail oriented. Effective customer service. Problem-solving and decision-making. Multitasking and time management. Strong analytical. Interpersonal and organizational. Both verbal and written communication. Ability to: Analyze and interpret data. Use other job-related software and systems. Ability to maintain the security or integrity of critical infrastructure, which may include communications systems, computer networks and systems, cybersecurity systems, electrical grid, hazardous waste treatment or water treatment system.

Work Experience - None Required

Working/Environmental Conditions - Routine office environment. Sitting or standing in one location much of the time. Some stooping, lifting or carrying objects lightweight may be required. Use of video display terminal.