PURCHASING SPECIALIST

SUMMARY:

The Purchasing Specialist is responsible for conducting the competitive bid process. This position is governed by state and federal law and institution policy.

TYPICAL FUNCTIONS:

Conducts competitive bids by writing bid specifications, preparing bid requisition documents, receiving and analyzing submitted bids, conducting public bid openings, preparing bid summaries, and posting intent to award bid.

Processes requisitions and invoices, contacts vendors, and assigns or secures purchase order numbers.

Maintains vendor files and updates data as needed.

Communicates with accounts payable, to ensure proper payment of invoices, and performs assigned accounting duties.

Provides technical customer service support to other departments and employees regarding purchasing and the purchasing system software.

Enters data into complex databases and systems and develops queries to gather information and prepare reports.

Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS:

Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations. Knowledge of computers and software application programs. Knowledge of database management and basic accounting principles. Knowledge of filing and recordkeeping procedures. Ability to perform accurate data entry and manipulate data to generate reports and documents. Ability to compose, proofread, and edit correspondence, reports, and other documents requiring attention to detail. Ability to conduct research and perform basic quantitative quality assurance reviews.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

The formal education equivalent of a high school diploma; plus five years of experience in purchasing or a related field.

Additional requirements determined by the institution for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.

OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.