Senior Purchasing and Contracts Specialist

South Orange County Community College District - Mission Viejo, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Mission Viejo, CA

Educational Services

About the position

The Senior Purchasing and Contracts Specialist plays a crucial role in overseeing and guiding the purchasing and contracts department within the South Orange County Community College District. This position involves leading staff, managing complex purchasing processes, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. The specialist will also provide technical expertise in the operation of automated purchasing systems and assist in the development and implementation of departmental procedures.

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 preparing bid specifications and packages for goods and services.
• Review and assess contractual scopes to establish indemnification and insurance provisions.
• Ensure all contracts and purchase orders are current and valid, and communicate with contract initiators for renewals.
• Provide technical expertise in utilizing Purchasing and Contracts systems and assist in system rollouts and enhancements.
• Develop and maintain detailed reports and records to ensure compliance with regulations.
• Create end-user documentation 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 the development and implementation of new programs and business processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree 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, procedures, and regulations.
• Experience with automated purchasing systems and software.

Nice-to-haves

• Certified Public Procurement Buyer certification is desirable.
• Experience in a lead role within the purchasing and contracts office of a public agency.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Dental insurance coverage
• Vision insurance coverage
• 401k retirement savings plan
• Paid holidays
• Flexible scheduling options
• Professional development opportunities