Understands and can explain University purchasing policies and
procedures and applies these to a variety of complex purchasing
scenarios appropriately using sound rationale.
Conducts research on potential vendors, products, and services.
Solicits quotes, analyzes responses, and presents results and
alternatives as requested for purchases under the formal bidding
threshold. Exercises judgement and policy knowledge to advise
Requesters on the purchasing process.
Identifies when legal terms and conditions apply and ensures
contracts are routed to OGC for appropriate review when
necessary.
Identifies, collects, and drafts documentation as required by
University policy to support a wide variety of complex
purchases.
Works with the Purchasing unit in the Controller’s Office to
assist collecting required documentation for purchases.
Identifies transactions, policy, or system challenges that
require escalation to ensure successful resolution and accurate
transaction entry.
Identifies, collects, and drafts required documentation to
request a new supplier or request changes to an existing supplier
and submits the request for approval.
Enters and monitors requisitions to ensure approvals and budget
checks have occurred.
Think critically about need, funding source, and cost. Applies
knowledge of standard processes and University purchasing methods
to ensure the most cost efficient and expeditious outcome of
purchasing activity for the University.
Understands key concepts for purchasing such as price
reasonableness, competitive sourcing and how to apply University
policies.
Uses information and requests received to assess and resolve
moderately complex procurement issues, for the entry of requisition
change orders, and the tracking and resolution of issues related to
PO sourcing and dispatch.
Unit Support (10%)
- Supports the strategy of the Finance Operations Center by
assisting in the production and review of supporting financial
data.
- Prepares ad hoc financial reports as needed to support the
overall purchasing operation for the Finance Operations Center and
for the catalog of RRCs.
Professional Development (10%)
- Contributes to documentation of and participates in training
for procedures for the Finance Operations Center.
- Identifies and participates in opportunities for cross-training
across Finance Operations Center functions to maintain adequate
coverage of all functions.
- Completes professional development, education, and training
activities, consistent with performing the responsibilities of the
position.
Completes continued learning and development appropriate to work
duties and for the pursuit of individual, unit, and institutional
success.
- Participates in staff development based on individual need
including ongoing skills training, DEI development, professional
learning, service & scholarly activity, and engagement &
well-being.
- As an individual contributor, models and contributes to
crafting an inclusive work environment and encouraging a caring
culture.
Other duties as assigned (5%)
This position has a scheduled start date around November
11
Qualifications
Required Qualifications (please document on resume):
- BA/BS degree or a combination of related education and work
experience to equal four years.
- Ability to interact with standard technology platforms (e.g.,
chat, word processing, data entry, email, internet browsing)
- Ability to run reports, understand data, and make
recommendations based on analysis of data.
- Ability to find solutions to modestly technical or operational
problems.
- Ability to work both independently and in a team
environment.
- Ability to detect problems and report information to
appropriate personnel
- Ability to communicate clearly and concisely in both written
and verbal settings
Preferred Qualifications (please document on resume):
- Knowledge of university policies and procedures involving
purchasing.
- Experience in a public procurement setting including supplier
sourcing, market research, RFPs, sole source justification,
etc.
Pay and Benefits
Pay Range: $24.56 - $28.23; depending on
education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment: 100% Appointment
Position Type : Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor
Represented Staff
Please visit the
Office of Human Resources website for more
information regarding benefit eligibility.
The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that
includes:
- Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
- Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit
Program
- Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
- Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
- University HSA contributions
- Disability and employer-paid life insurance
- Employee wellbeing program
- Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
opportunity
- Financial counseling services
- Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling
at no cost
- Employee Transit
Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro
area
While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to
note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This
approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of
each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our
commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to
incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.
How To Apply
Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this
position, please click the Apply button and follow the
instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an
online application for the position and attach a cover letter and
resume.
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing
your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My
Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please
e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.
This application will remain open until filled.
Candidates for this position will have their applications reviewed
in the following order:
1. Employees within PEAK Phase 4 who are eligible for Expression of
Interest (EOI) will receive first consideration.
2. Employees within PEAK Phase 4 who are impacted by work moving
through PEAK and apply by 7/24/26 will receive priority
consideration after EOI.
3. Finally, all other University employees will be reviewed after
the 7/24/26 priority date.
Diversity
The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity
and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its
employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is
committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying
identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and
opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without
regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender,
age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran
status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
To learn more about diversity at the U:
http://diversity.umn.edu
Employment Requirements
Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful
completion of a background check. Our presumption is that
prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal
convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from
employment.
About University of Minnesota
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the
largest public research universities in the country, offering
undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of
opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one
of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities,
students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from
extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers,
international corporations, government agencies, and arts,
nonprofit, and public service organizations.
At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by
Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer
for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026,
we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards
recognition for employee appreciation and work-life
flexibility.