Purchasing Agent/Accountant

About the position

The Purchasing Agent/Accountant at Johnston County plays a vital role in managing the County's procurement and Purchasing Card (P-Card) programs. This position ensures compliance with financial policies and regulations while supporting purchasing processes across all departments. The individual will monitor procurement activities, reconcile P-Card transactions, provide technical support, and assist with vendor management and purchase order processing, serving as a backup for the Purchasing Supervisor.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Purchasing Supervisor with coordinating central purchasing including the procurement of materials, equipment, and supplies.
• Maintain working knowledge of laws, ordinances, and regulations governing county financial matters.
• Manage the Purchasing Card (P-Card) program under the general direction of the Purchasing Supervisor.
• Analyze P-Card purchases to ensure accuracy and provide final approval upon completion.
• Reconcile monthly P-Card statements and monitor monthly spending analysis.
• Ensure all P-Card purchases have prior approval and align with PO allowances.
• Process P-Card password resets and document lost cards or potential fraud.
• Assist in P-Card training for County employees.
• Setup and maintain vendor files and vendor registry, including processing W-9 forms.
• Create, approve, and post Purchase Orders (POs) and communicate with departments.
• Process year-end Purchase Orders and ensure compliance with purchasing policies.
• Maintain and process accounts payable for the County Library.
• Coordinate shredding purges for County departments.
• Assist in reviewing requisitions, purchase orders, and invoices.
• Stock supplies and maintain the supply room with basic office supplies.
• Enter and post County cash receipts and process related reports.
• Serve as backup for the Purchasing Supervisor and Accounting Supervisor when required.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, Business Administration, or a related field with 1-3 years of purchasing experience, OR
• Associate's degree in accounting, Business, or a related field with 3-5 years of purchasing experience, OR
• Equivalent combination of education and experience.
• In-depth understanding of procurement principles, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with County staff, vendors, and external stakeholders.
• Strong commitment to maintaining confidentiality and data integrity.
• Proficient in computer applications relevant to procurement, including Microsoft Office Suite and financial management software.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Exceptional time management and organizational skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Active membership in the North Carolina Association of Governmental Purchasing (NCAGP) or ability to obtain.
• Certified Local Government Purchasing Officer (CLGPO) certification or willingness to obtain within 2 years.