Purchaser IV

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Brief Job Description:

The Purchaser IV is an intermediate procurement position that provides experience through processing requisitions through a competitive process.   
Purchaser IV purchases services using the most applicable and cost-effective purchasing methods based on laws, rules, policies and established guidelines. Performs mid-level purchasing work involving planning, organizing, coordinating, and preparing specifications for purchasing services; processes transactional purchase orders and payments utilizing state issued Procard, preparing procurement documents, contract purchase orders, renewals, and amendments; maintains records of items purchased, received, prepared, and issued. Works under limited supervision with considerable 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):

 (25%) Reviews assigned requisitions for completeness and compliance with applicable requirements prior to processing; works with program customers to clarify and understand requirements and statements of work (SOW) relating to procurements. May assist program customers with researching vendors to perform needed services and aids requesters in drafting competitive specifications for services. Follows a decision process to determine the most appropriate procurement method.

 (20%) Prepares or oversees the preparation and distribution of competitive solicitations to vendors. Reviews and tabulates bids and orders to determine lowest and most qualified bids or bids that provide best value. Recommends and makes contract awards and suggests additional content for contracts when appropriate.

(20%) Processes assigned requisitions to purchase orders (POs) in HHS’s Centralized Accounting and Payroll/Personnel System (CAPPS) Financials or via state issued Procard in accordance with established timelines. Reviews, releases to vendor, and tracks purchase orders (POs) based on requesters’ needs.

 (15%) Prepares, reviews, and verifies accuracy of procurement documentation against a checklist. Maintains all required procurement documentation and prepares files for upload into System of Contract Operation and Reporting (SCOR) in a timely manner. Uses automated procurement systems.

 (10%) Works with management, requesters, subject matter experts, stakeholders, agency staff, and other purchasing staff to identify and manage purchasing related issues. Responds to phone and e-mail inquiries from requesters and other staff regarding the status of requisitions, POs and the delivery of services.

(5%) Prepares and/or reviews CAPPS Reports; monitors and documents vendor performance as required; and provides required reporting (e.g., WorkQuest exception reporting).

 (5%) Performs other duties as assigned, such as participating in Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) and procurement related events, training, or providing support for the agency’s disaster response and recovery obligations or Business Continuity Plan activation.

 Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

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

Practical knowledge of purchasing and procurement methods and procedures

Practical 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) must be obtained within 6 months of hire. 

 Initial Screening Criteria:

Graduation from high school or equivalent required. 2 years college-level experience preferred.  A minimum of 2 years of purchasing, procurement, or contract management experience. State procurement experience preferred. Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD) certification 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.