Senior Purchasing and Contracts Specialist

$11,070 - $93,936/Yr

South Orange County Community College District - Orange, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Orange, CA

Educational Services

About the position

The Senior Purchasing and Contracts Specialist plays a crucial role in overseeing and guiding the procurement process within the District Services department. This position is responsible for leading the preparation, review, analysis, and processing of purchase orders, bids, and contracts, while also providing technical expertise and training to staff. The specialist ensures compliance with relevant laws and regulations, manages the automated Purchasing and Contracts systems, and acts as a liaison for resolving procurement-related issues.

Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the Purchasing and Contracts Department.
• Provide functional and technical work direction to staff responsible for purchase orders and contracts.
• Assist in the development and implementation of departmental policies and procedures.
• Review and assess contractual scopes and ensure compliance with insurance requirements.
• Ensure all contracts and purchase orders are current and valid, proactively communicating with contract initiators.
• Provide technical expertise in utilizing Purchasing and Contracts systems and assist in system enhancements.
• Develop and maintain detailed reports and records to ensure compliance with policies and regulations.
• Create training materials and provide training on systems processes and procedures.
• Act as a liaison to troubleshoot and resolve issues related to bids, purchase orders, RFPs, and contracts.
• Participate in meetings, trainings, and workshops to maintain compliance and knowledge of changes in laws and regulations.

Requirements

• Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in purchasing, business, or a related field.
• Five years of increasingly responsible purchasing and contract experience, preferably in a lead role within a public agency.
• Advanced knowledge of purchasing and contract law, policies, and procedures.
• Experience with automated systems and software related to purchasing and contracts.

Nice-to-haves

• Certified Public Procurement Buyer certification is desirable.
• Extensive involvement in the operation and development of automated systems and software.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Dental insurance coverage
• Vision insurance coverage
• 401k retirement savings plan
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Flexible scheduling options