Principal Buyer

This position is responsible for performing the most complex procurement and contractual work, primarily construction procurement. Work involves responsibility for the economical and timely purchase of goods and services utilized by the City. The work involves ensuring that the proper quality and quantity, and in many cases best value for the City are achieved through developing technical specifications for formal bids and proposals, bid evaluations, and enforcing competitive procedures in accordance with the City Code, and underlying policies and procedures. This position requires resourcefulness and initiative in problem resolution. Some of the complexity of this position requires understanding, interpreting, reconciling, and implementing procurement and contracting requirements, including construction procurements, from Federal, State or regional bodies; responding in a timely manner to competing priorities and deadlines; analyzing and reporting on a variety of contracting and related matters, and having to anticipate and track fiscal impacts on varying contract language and requirements that may have legal implications in obligation of funds. The successful candidate may be responsible for materials handling and appropriate practices in managing a stockroom. This position works under minimal supervision with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. The successful candidate may also be responsible for management and oversight of one (1) or more of four (4) current programs within the department (I.e. Warehouse, Minority Female, Disabled, or Veteran-Owned program, training, or any other program identified by the Director of Procurement.) The successful candidate will report directly to the Director of Procurement. Analyzes the organization's procurement needs and develops solutions to meet the organization's needs. Develops contracts and/or master agreements to govern procurements. Prepares necessary award and contract documentation and assists in administration of contracts to assure compliance until contract is concluded. Works with departments to resolve contract disputes. Works with departments on best use of particular contract types. Makes recommendations on complex procurements by providing guidance to departments. Keeps informed of all new developments relative to available resources and contract opportunities for Citywide use. Makes recommendations to achieve procurement efficiencies city wide as well as to reduce costs of specific procurements. Utilizes all available resources to assist user departments with development of specifications and to research best practices in contract management. Utilizes State, County and National municipal cooperative procurement agreements where appropriate. Oversees the development, review, revision, and implementation of legislation. Develops short-long term strategies and goals for the administration of assigned contracts. Oversees the coordination and facilitation of procurement related meetings such as kick-off and pre-proposal meetings, post-award conferences, team briefings, and evaluation scoring. Oversees, initiates, and approves emergency purchases. Oversees and/or reviews and conducts the needs assessment process to ensure requirements are completed and justified. Meets with vendors to discuss contract agreements and to reconcile any order or contractual discrepancies. Reviews major procurement contracts, coordinates contract compliance, and monitors change orders for the duration of the contract. Resolves discrepancies and disputes in accordance with contract laws, consulting with legal counsel as required. Compiles statistics for reports and studies and produces procurement reports on an annual basis to analyze City spending. Handles all contracting issues, negotiates favorable contractual terms, administers contracts and follows up to ensure contract compliance. Supervises all activities associated with managing the City stockroom including personnel, and inventory management system. Supervises the disposition of surplus property. Provides Citywide training on issues of procurement. Supervisors and administers the City's Purchase Card Program. Manages the City's Minority, Female, and Disabled (MFD) business owned program. Supervisors, trains, and mentors less senior buyers as needed. Recommends and develops purchasing policies and procedures. Oversees decentralized purchasing functions to ensure citywide compliance with guidelines, policies and procedures. Stays current with national trends and best practices in procurement. Responsible for maintaining certification, and where feasible accreditation of the purchasing function. May act on behalf the Director of Procurement as assigned. Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree with major coursework in business, procurement or closely related field from an accredited university or college; and five (5) years of progressively responsible work in governmental procurement experience including some supervisory experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. Special Qualifications: Must have passed or be able to pass the Professional Public Buyer Certification (CPPB). Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO), Certified Purchasing Manager (C.P.M.), Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM) preferred. Experience with an automated procurement system preferred. Considerable knowledge of procurement methods and procedures. Considerable knowledge of the types, nomenclature and sources of supply for a wide variety of goods and services. Considerable knowledge of markets and market prices for a wide range of goods and services. Considerable knowledge of warehouse inventory practices and procedures. Demonstrates proficient oral and written communication Ability to develop contract specific language suitable for public bidding. Ability to use automated systems technology and software tools for effective accomplishment of work. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with vendors, and city staff at all levels. Ability to plan, prioritize and supervise the work of subordinate employees. Ability to manage procurement programs such as the Warehouse, Purchase Cards, Minority, Female, and Disabled (MFD) owned Businesses and training. Ability to step in during gaps, be flexible in assignments, and promote teamwork.