"Procurement Professional III"

Procurement Professional III

Job No: 555029
Work Type: Staff
Locations: Southern California: San Diego
Categories: Bargaining Unit: Unit 9 - CSUEU - Technical Support Services, Job Search Category/Discipline: Finance/Accounting, Appointment Type: Probationary, Time Basis: Full Time, Workplace Type (Exclude Inst Fac): Telecommute eligible (work onsite as scheduled and/or as requested and telecommute as scheduled)

Position Summary

The Procurement Professional III plays a strategic role in supporting the university's purchasing and contracting operations by leading complex, high-impact procurements for supplies and professional services. Working independently under general direction, this position applies advanced procurement expertise, analytical judgment, and negotiation skills to develop sourcing strategies, manage risk, and establish annual and multi-year contracts. The role partners closely with campus departments and suppliers to ensure compliance with federal, state, and CSU regulations while delivering best value outcomes. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced procurement professional who enjoys solving complex problems, influencing policy, and contributing to institution-wide efficiency and effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex procurements, including formal bids and requests for proposals, from planning through award and contract implementation.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, conditions, and contract provisions while conducting risk and total cost of ownership analyses.
• Develop, administer, amend, and close out annual and multi-year contracts in compliance with CSU policy and Public Contracts Code.
• Advise campus clients on procurement strategies, market conditions, cost savings opportunities, and policy interpretation.
• Identify and implement process improvements, provide training, and offer lead work direction or mentorship to procurement staff as needed.

Why Join Us?

• Play a strategic role in high-value procurements that support the university's mission and operations.
• Apply advanced procurement, negotiation, and analytical skills in a complex public higher education environment.
• Collaborate with diverse campus partners and external suppliers on impactful projects.
• Contribute to policy development, process improvement, and systemwide best practices.
• Join a professional procurement team committed to integrity, efficiency, and continuous improvement.

Position Information

• This is a full-time (1.0 time-base), benefits eligible, permanent/probationary position.
• This position is designated as exempt under FLSA and is not eligible for overtime compensation.
• Standard SDSU work hours are Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but may vary based on operational needs.
• This position is eligible for telecommuting up to 2 days per week, following a training period during which on-site presence is required.

Department Summary

Financial Operations is responsible for the financial and budgetary controls and procedures of San Diego State University (the University) and is directly responsible to the Vice President for Business and Financial Affairs. The Associate Vice President for Financial Operations has responsibility for Budget and Finance, Procure-to-Pay, Audit and Continuous Improvement, Shared Services, and the University Controller's Office, which includes Accounting Services, Financial Reporting, Financial Systems Management and Analysis, the SDSUcard Office, and Student Account Services.

The Procure-to-Pay department is responsible for delivering end to end procure to pay services and solutions, including leading continuous improvement initiatives in collaboration with the department of Shared Services. Responsibilities include a wide range of contract and procurement management and accounts payable functions.

The Contract and Procurement Management office is responsible for contract administration and procurement processes for San Diego State University, including the Imperial Valley campus. Under the direct supervision of the Associate Director, Contract and Procurement Management, our mission is to respond to the needs of multiple faculty and staff clients and comply with State legislated purchasing mandates and campus policy. The Contract and Procurement Management office is a fully automated, large-scale unit and encompasses a wide variety of functions from contract and lease negotiations, basic purchasing services of equipment, supplies, materials, and professional services to contracting capital and minor construction projects. Contract and Procurement Management consists of 8-10 buyers, a Contracts Administration Manager, a Contracts Management Manager, and an Associate Director.

For more information regarding Procure-to-Pay department, click here.

Education and Experience

Equivalent to a bachelor's degree in a related field and four years of relevant experience. Additional experience which demonstrates acquired and successfully applied knowledge and abilities shown above may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis. An advanced degree in a related field may be substituted for the required experience on a year-for-year basis.

Key Qualifications

• Experience in use of a computer and an integrated complex financial accounting and procurement system.
• Knowledge of Planet Bids, Fiscal
• Knowledge of the Public Contracts Code
• Knowledge of CSU Procurement Policy.
• High Level knowledge of University policies, State Statutes and Codes, and procedures for the procurement of commodities and services is preferred.
• Knowledge of information technology and software requirements; application of any governmental requirements or regulations; working knowledge of Oracle is preferred.
• Procurement program certification such as NIGP-CPP, CPPM, CPM, etc., is preferred.

Compensation and Benefits

San Diego State University offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth.

Compensation:

• Step placement will be determined based on relevant qualifications and professional experience, in alignment with the department's budget and equity guidelines.
• Initial step placement is not expected to exceed Step 9 ($6,885) for highly qualified candidates.
• Salary step placement for internal applicants will follow the CSUEU Collective Bargaining Agreement.
• CSU Classification Salary Range: $5,877 - $8,561 per month (Step 1 - Step 20).
• Future increases, including step advancements, are subject to contract negotiations.

Full Benefits Package Includes:

• Generous Time Off: 15 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Retirement: CalPERS pension plan with retiree healthcare, and reciprocal agreements with other California public retirement systems, including the UC.
• Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision options at low or no cost.
• Education Support: CSU tuition fee waiver for employees and eligible dependents.
• Optional Offerings: FlexCash, life and disability insurance, legal and pet plans.
• Campus & Community: Access to the library, campus events, employee groups, and volunteer and social activities.

Our benefits are a significant part of total compensation. Learn more at the SDSU Benefits Overview.