Buyer

This Position is Eligible for the City's Student Loan Repayment Program

This is a specialized position responsible for the procurement of commodities and services for the City of Ocala.  Performs duties with a degree of independence, while working under the guidance of Senior Buyers and the Procurement Manager. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

1. Consults with department personnel on procurement needs and advises of the best methods for purchasing required goods and services.

2. Seeks continuous improvement in productivity and reduction of procurement costs through use of procurement analysis, techniques and practices.

3. Manages assigned solicitations from project inception through bid award.

4. Analyzes bid clarifications and exceptions to determine materiality and communicates determination to vendors and user departments, as appropriate.

5. Develops addendum and bid tabulations.

6. Receives and evaluates assigned bids, and formal quotes.

7. Reviews, approves, and processes requisitions that are compliant with Purchasing policies and procedures.

8. Maintains and analyzes for best value the use of State of Florida contracts.

9. Sources both new consortium contracts and vendors to obtain best value for the City.

10. Makes recommendations for alternative buying methods.

11. Approves emergency purchase orders as required.

12. Attends Trade Shows and Purchasing-Related Seminars/Training Courses.

NONESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

1. Assists in the preparation of various manuals, such as purchasing policies and procedures, and vendors guide.

2. At times, must drive to other departments and to seminars.

3. Performs other duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Must have an Associate's Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics or related area; and two (2) years of professional purchasing experience, preferably in a public environment, where awards are made through a competitive bid process. Equivalent combination of training, education and experience may be acceptable.

Licenses/Certificates:

Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Operators Driver's License with an acceptable driving record.

Certification as a CPPB (Certified Public Purchasing Buyer) is desirable.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

1. Working knowledge of public procurement laws, practices, and techniques.

2. Knowledge of principle and practices of contract administration.

3. Ability to review and write simple contracts.

4. Knowledge of computer software applications.

5. Ability to maintain detailed records and perform a variety of procurement-related administrative and clerical tasks.

6. Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships and communicate clearly and effectively with subordinates, representatives of other departments, vendors and the public.

7. Ability to remain calm in stressful situations.