Procurement Purchaser III - Support Services

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.

Brief Job Description:

The Support Services Purchaser III is a first-level procurement position that provides foundational experience through processing funding requisitions and performing administrative procurement support services.

Performs novice (entry-level) procurement and administrative support work. Work involves reviewing, coordinating, and processing funding requisitions to purchase orders, and assist in maintaining procurement and contract records. Performs vendor verification checks. Works under general supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment following HHSC and PCS policies and procedures, and laws governing state purchasing.

This position is required to come into the office at least three days per work week. Telework availability is subject to agency policy and procedure.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy.

(30%) Reviews funding requisitions for completeness and compliance with applicable requirements prior to processing; processes assigned funding requisitions to purchase orders in HHS’s Centralized Accounting and Payroll/Personnel System (CAPPS) Financials. Reviews, releases, and tracks purchase orders (POs) based on requesters’ needs.

(20%) Reviews and verifies accuracy of procurement documentation against a checklist. Uploads and maintains all required procurement and contract documentation and supporting transactions into the System of Contract Operation and Reporting (SCOR) in a timely manner. Uses automated procurement systems.

(20%) Responds to phone and e-mail inquiries from requesters and other staff regarding funding requisitions, purchase orders, procurement and contract records or vendor verification issues.

(10%) Performs vendor verification checks. Troubleshoots and works with vendors, purchasers, program staff, and accounting to correct any findings.

(10%) Prepares and/or reviews SCOR and CAPPS Reports.

(10%) Performs other duties as assigned, such as processing requisitions, participating in Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) outreach events, training, or providing support for the agency’s disaster response and recovery obligations or Business Continuity Plan activation.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Limited knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations governing state purchasing

Limited knowledge of purchasing and procurement methods and procedures Limited knowledge of state of Texas procurement principles and practices, assigned commodities and products on the open market, and supply sources

Skill in the use of computer and applicable software

Skill in problem solving, including asking appropriate questions and identifying resources to obtain necessary information

Skill in attention to detail

Skill in organizing documentation

Skill in providing excellent customer service

Ability to logically assemble and evaluate information

Ability to maintain a system of required record keeping

Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing

Ability to schedule, prioritize, monitor and complete multiple assignments timely

Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team

Ability to act in a sound, logical, proactive and appropriate manner based on well thought out analysis of situations or problems.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD) - (formerly Certified Texas Procurement Manager) certification must be obtained within 6 months of hire. 

Initial Screening Criteria:

Graduation from high school or equivalent required. 2 years college-level experience preferred.  Minimum 1 year of experience in administrative support, general office, or clerical experience or related work in an internship role required. Six months state procurement experience preferred.

Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:

Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.

HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form

Telework Disclaimer:

This position may be eligible for telework.  Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.