Buyer - Purchasing - Full Time

Senior Purchasing AgentRancho California Water District is seeking an experienced and collaborative procurement professional to join our Finance Department as a Senior Purchasing Agent. This position reflects the District's continued growth and commitment to strengthening procurement practices, contract administration, regulatory compliance, customer service, and responsible stewardship of public resources.Working under the general direction of the Procurement & Contracts Administrator, the Senior Purchasing Agent will prepare and administer formal solicitations, coordinate proposal evaluations, prepare contracts and amendments, negotiate terms and conditions, conduct market research, and provide procurement support to District departments. The position plays an important role in ensuring the timely, efficient, and compliant acquisition of goods and services that support the District and the Santa Rosa Regional Resources Authority (SRRRA), while helping maximize value from public expenditures through effective competition, contract management, and procurement best practices.Rancho California Water District proudly serves more than 160,000 residents throughout Temecula, Murrieta, and surrounding communities. The District provides reliable water, wastewater, and recycled water services while maintaining a strong commitment to operational excellence, fiscal responsibility, and customer service.The Purchasing Department currently consists of a Procurement & Contracts Administrator, Purchasing Agent II, Senior Warehouse Technician, and Student Intern. Purchasing and warehouse functions operate as an integrated team under the direction of the Procurement & Contracts Administrator, with staff working collaboratively to support procurement, contracting, warehouse operations, and other District business needs.Over the past several years, the Department has implemented significant improvements, including updates to the District's Purchasing Policy and Procedures, implementation of a contract management module, expanded contract administration processes, and enhanced regulatory compliance practices. These efforts have strengthened procurement controls, improved contract oversight, and enhanced the District's ability to obtain competitive pricing and best value for the goods and services it acquires. The addition of the Senior Purchasing Agent position reflects the District's commitment to continuously improving procurement services and support provided to departments throughout the organization.The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented and customer-focused procurement professional who enjoys working collaboratively with staff, vendors, contractors, and consultants. They will have experience preparing and administering formal solicitations, coordinating proposal evaluations, drafting and administering contracts, and managing vendor relationships within a structured procurement environment.The successful candidate will be organized, proactive, and capable of managing multiple priorities while maintaining a high degree of accuracy and professionalism. Strong communication skills, sound judgment, attention to detail, and a commitment to ethical procurement practices and exceptional customer service are essential. This is an excellent opportunity for a procurement professional seeking to expand their experience and contribute to a growing and progressive public agency procurement program.Approach to work...We ensure a strategic and unified workforce committed to being a leader in the industry. Through professional development, collaboration, and communication we consistently work through any challenges that we encounter. Work Schedule...All full-time employees work a 9/80 schedule. Benefits...All full-time employees receive are enrolled in CalPERS Pension (2.7% at 55 + EPMC for Classic Members and 2.0% at 62 for PEPRA Members). Medical, dental, vision, basic life and AD&D, and long-term disability are fully covered for employees.Qualification Guidelines...The appropriate knowledge, skills and abilities can be achieved through a variety of combinations of experience and training. A typical example is:5 or more years of purchasing experience, or 2 years as a Purchasing Agent IIAssociates of Degree, or equivalent, in Purchasing, Business, or AccountingCertificate in forklift operationCompensation - $44.39 - $53.27, hourlySchedule of Events (subject to change)First look of applications - Monday, July 6, 2026Panel Interview - Week of July 20, 2026How to Apply...Interested individuals must complete an application at to be considered for this position. Interested applicants should apply ASAP as this recruitment can close at any time.