Purchaser III

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.

Job Description:

Performs entry level IT goods and services purchasing and procurement work. Work involves researching, evaluating, purchasing and procuring IT goods and services using guidelines, rules, policies, and laws. May provide guidance to others. Works under general supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

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:

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

(50%) Assists with IT goods and services procurements using the most applicable and cost-effective purchasing methods based on laws, rules, policies and established guidelines. May assist with processing requisitions in an automated environment, including reviewing requisitions for completeness and compliance with applicable requirements. May assist with researching vendors for products and services. Assists with monitoring legal and regulatory requirements pertaining to purchasing. Maintains all required documentation supporting transactions. Uses automated procurement systems.

(20%) May prepare and distribute procurement documents to vendors. Reviews and tabulates bids and orders to determine lowest and best bids or bids that provide best value. Works with management,

requesters, subject matter experts, stakeholders, agency staff, and other purchasing staff to resolve purchasing related issues. May assist with preparing, reviewing, releasing and tracking purchase orders

(POs) based on requesters’ needs. Responds to phone and e-mail inquiries from requesters and other staff regarding the status of requisitions, POs and the delivery of services.

(20%) Assists with preparing, reviewing, processing and tracking solicitations and purchase orders. May assist with preparing, reviewing and maintaining purchasing and procurement reports. Maintains and reviews various purchasing and procurement reports and records and maintains files.

(10%) May assist with supporting Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) outreach and participate in procurement related events. Performs other duties as assigned, such as participating in or providing support for the agency’s disaster response and recovery obligations or Business Continuity Plan activation.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

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

Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Minimal knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations governing state purchasing.

Minimal knowledge of purchasing and procurement methods and procedures.

Minimal 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 strong attention to detail.

Skill in providing good 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.

Initial Screening Criteria:

Graduation from high school or equivalent. Minimum six months of experience in purchasing and/or contract administration. One-year full-time administrative support, general office, or clerical experience is preferred.

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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.