"Procurement Professional IV"

Position Summary

The Procurement Professional IV serves as a senior-level expert and strategic leader for the university's most complex, high-risk, and high-value procurements. Working independently with a high degree of autonomy, this position oversees campus-wide and multi-departmental sourcing initiatives, develops long-term and system-impacting contracts, and provides expert guidance on procurement strategy and best practices. The role partners closely with senior leadership, campus stakeholders, and external suppliers to shape procurement solutions that align with institutional priorities, regulatory requirements, and financial stewardship. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced procurement professional to influence policy, lead transformative projects, and drive value across the university and CSU system.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the university's most complex procurements, including large-scale, long-term, and high-risk contracts impacting multiple departments or campuses.
• Strategically source and negotiate contracts, integrating market research, supplier performance analysis, and total cost of ownership considerations.
• Provide expert guidance on procurement policies, legislative mandates, and systemwide initiatives, ensuring full compliance and risk mitigation.
• Develop and implement procurement strategies, process improvements, and training programs for campus and external stakeholders.
• Provide lead work direction, mentorship, and technical expertise to procurement professionals while supporting audits and continuous improvement efforts.

Why Join Us?

• Serve as a trusted procurement expert influencing campus-wide and system-level initiatives.
• Lead high-impact projects that shape the university's long-term procurement strategy and financial sustainability.
• Collaborate with senior leadership, systemwide partners, and external suppliers on complex, strategic engagements.
• Apply advanced analytical, negotiation, and leadership skills in a dynamic public higher education environment.

Join a professional procurement organization committed to integrity, innovation, 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 five 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. Professional certifications in procurement may be required for some positions.

Key Qualifications

• Expert knowledge of University policies, State Statutes and Codes, and procedures for the procurement of commodities and services.
• Knowledge of information technology and software requirements; application of any governmental requirements or regulations; working knowledge of Oracle.
• Procurement program certification such as NIGP-CPP, CPPM, CPM, etc., is desired.
• Deep understanding of public procurement frameworks, including statutes, regulations, policies, contract law, supply-chain management, and a range of contract delivery and administration methods.
• Experience with financial and analytical techniques such as cost and price analysis, total cost of ownership, benchmarking, forecasting, and spend analysis to evaluate value, reduce costs, and assess vendor financial stability.
• Leads end-to-end procurement activities by shaping solicitations and scopes of work, evaluating bids and proposals, negotiating complex contract terms, and exercising impartial judgment in award decisions.
• Manages multiple high-complexity initiatives simultaneously, leveraging strong project management, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills to deliver results on time, within budget, and in alignment with university objectives.
• Completion of some professional procurement certification is preferred. Completion of a university level Extended Studies Certificate in procurement, contract management, supply management or equivalent course of study 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 12 ($8,291) for highly qualified candidates.
• Salary step placement for internal applicants will follow the CSUEU Collective Bargaining Agreement.
• CSU Classification Salary Range: $6,668 - $9,714 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.