POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

POSITION TITLE: Purchasing Agent

DEPARTMENT: Business Operations

APPOINTMENT TYPE: 12 Month, Probationary, Pay Grade III

PRIMARY FUNCTION : Develops specifications for competitive bidding by preparing requests for quotations and requests for proposal (RFP); assists with evaluation and consultation of campus purchasing needs in conjunction with Purchasing/Payables Manager and other purchasing staff; reviews requisitions and prepares purchase orders as necessary using Oracle purchasing application; and assists with regular accounts payable functions as necessary.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Develops specifications in accordance with departmental needs; advises of purchasing procedures; investigates and researches vendors for appropriate distribution of bid materials; prepares document packages and coordinates distribution to vendors; and participates in award process including bid receipt, opening and award.

2.Meets with departments on current and future purchasing needs and advises of University and regulatory guidelines; provides opportunities for customer (University and outside) involvement in improving purchasing process including policy and procedural matters, commodities, vendor selection, analysis and award of bids; and assists in the evaluation of benefits from purchasing contracts.

3. Coordinates application process and maintenance of the procurement card program for the University; serves as a resource for questions regarding procurement card use and allowability of charges; and assists with maintenance and monitoring of procurement card manual and Office of Business Operations website in relation to the procurement card.

4. Reviews requisitions for accuracy and creates purchase orders as appropriate or returns to preparer for correction; determines subsequent action (PO, quote, RFP, etc); and approves purchase orders based on approval authority as granted.

NECESSARY QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree in Business or related field and entry-level purchasing experience required.  Student experience will be considered.  Strong oral and written communication skills, familiarity with computer software applications including Microsoft Office; the ability to work independently, problem solve and implement solutions also required. 

APPLICATION PROCESS: :  Application materials received by April 28, 2008 will be given first consideration. Additional information provided upon request (319) 273-3424.  Send cover letter, resume, and names, addresses, and telephone numbers of three references to: Purchasing Agent Search Chair, Human Resources, 121 Commons, UNI, Cedar Falls, Iowa 50614-0034.  Fax (319) 273-2927.  Email: HRS-Applications@uni.edu URL: www.uni.edu

THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER WITH A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR AFFIRMATIVE ACTION.