Procurement Agent

Procurement AgentThe Penn State Office of Central Procurement team is searching for a Procurement Agent. Central Procurement has a vision to develop and execute sound business and cost-effective Purchasing solutions to enable the teaching, research, and service mission of the University.The Pennsylvania State University seeks a Procurement Agent for the Housing and Food Service (HFS) Procurement Office. This position will procure products and services for University Housing and Food Service operations and other supported food service operations in accordance with operational needs and University Policies.The successful candidate will work collaboratively to analyze spending patterns and review historical usage to forecast and anticipate customer needs and leverage buying power, reduce costs, and ensure the needs of all operations are met. The position actively negotiates with suppliers and establishes vendor partnerships and agreements. This position also maintains and manages inventory levels within the HFS warehouse for assigned commodities.The Procurement Agent:Prepares procurement documentation, including quotes and agreements, required to support and approve purchase orders within designated authority limitsReviews and processes annual contracts for food related supplies and servicesEnsures the proper flow of goods and services to maintain and support Housing and Food Service and other supported facilitiesResearches, identifies, evaluates, and monitors vendor relationships and performance in the best interest of the UniversityMonitors order status to ensure timely deliveriesResolves discrepancies related to orders, invoices, or shipmentsConducts new product and specification research, including maintenance of current specificationsForecasts needs and maintains inventory of assigned commoditiesEnsures procurement activities comply with University policies and regulations, maintain accurate records including contracts and supplier documentation, and support audit and reporting requirementsExperience and skills required to be successful in this role:Appropriate negotiating skills to achieve optimum price, delivery terms, payment terms, and purchase order terms and deliver best value solutions to the UniversityForecasting and Inventory ManagementA high degree of organization and problem-solving skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environmentExperience in the Food Service industry preferredSound principles of customer satisfactionThis position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required CertificationsBachelor's Degree; 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: NoneSalary & BenefitsThe salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $59,580.00 - $86,400.00. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.