Senior Buyer

Reviews and edits specifications received from university departments; prepares
Invitations to Bid ( ITB ), Requests for Proposals ( RFP ), Requests for Qualifications ( RFQ ),
and other solicitation documents.

Serves as the primary point of contact for procurement and contract inquiries and issues
solicitation amendments as needed.

Research and evaluates vendors to determine their ability to provide quality goods and
services that meet university specifications and standards.

Conducts pre-bid conferences, proposal openings, and evaluation meetings; analyzes bids
and proposals for responsiveness and vendor responsibility.

Conducts price analyses using historical pricing, independent estimates, market research,
and other evaluation criteria; prepares award recommendations and supporting
justifications.

The position is responsible for reviewing and administering contracts, monitoring vendor
performance, maintaining official contract files, and ensuring all procurement
documentation is complete to facilitate timely payment processing and audit compliance.

The Senior Buyer also serves as a procurement advisor to university departments by
providing guidance on procurement regulations, contract requirements, purchasing
procedures, and strategic sourcing initiatives.

Negotiates contract terms and conditions consistent with applicable procurement laws
and university policies.

Provides liaison and coordination between university departments and vendors to ensure
compliance with contract specifications and timely resolution of procurement and
payment issues.

The Senior Buyer performs complex administrative and programmatic responsibilities in
support of the University’s Veteran Heroes United in Business ( VETHUB ) Program,
including coordinating outreach efforts, maintaining program documentation, assisting
veteran-owned businesses with procurement opportunities, monitoring participation,
and supporting initiatives that promote supplier diversity and veteran business
engagement.

Research industry trends, supplier capabilities, and market conditions to identify
procurement opportunities and best practices.

Monitors Interlocal Agreements and Cooperative Purchasing Agreements to maximize
procurement efficiency and cost savings.

Assists in developing and delivering procurement training for university departments and
serves in the absence of the Purchasing Manager or Purchasing Supervisor as needed.

The Senior Buyer exercises sound judgment maintains the highest standards of ethical
and professional conduct and contributes to the continuous improvement of
procurement processes while ensuring transparency, accountability, and compliance with
all applicable purchasing regulations.

Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

% FTE

1.0

Hiring Range
$80,870.19-$103,109.49

Education

Required:
Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Supply Chain Management, Public
Administration, Finance, or a closely related field or an equivalent combination of education and directly related experience may be considered.

Required Licensing/Certification

Required:
Certified Texas Contract Developer ( CTCD )

Preferred:

• Either, CPPB, CPPO, CPM, CPSM, or other
  recognized procurement certification.
• Valid Texas Driver’s License (if travel is required).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Requires full/complete knowledge in multiple disciplines and serves as an ultimate
  subject matter expert in at least one discipline or function. Demonstrates full command
  of technical and functional principles, procedures, and subject matter in multiple
  disciplines to handle any situation and lead or train others. Requires the ability to lead
  the development or modification of work procedures across multiple disciplines.
• Federal, State, Local, and County laws.
• Policies, procedures, and practices.
• Banner and other job-related software systems.
• Microsoft Office Professional or similar applications.
• Knowledge of contract methods and procedures
• Knowledge of current VETHUB requirements for procurements for the State of Texas
• Skill in use of computers and other office equipment
• Skill in establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships
• Accuracy and attention to details and deadlines

Skill In:

• Detail oriented.
• Skill in use of computers and other office equipment
• Skill in establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships
• Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing
• Effective customer service.
• Problem-solving and decision-making.
• Multitasking and time management.
• Strong analytical.
• Interpersonal and organizational.
• Both verbal and written communication.
  
  

Ability to:

• Analyze and interpret data.
• Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to develop methods and procedures for obtaining commodities for agency
  operations; and to maintain a system for record keeping
• Ability to evaluate bids, to develop methods & procedures for locating supply source
• Ability to work under stressful situations and in a fast-paced environment
  & prioritize accordingly
• Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work to meet deadlines
• Ability to consistently display a professional demeanor
• Ability to interpret rules, regulations, policies and procedures
• Ability to demonstrate flexibility and adaptability toward changes in assignments
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to adhere to the agency’s internal management policies and procedures
• Use other job-related software and systems.
• Ability to maintain the security or integrity of critical infrastructure, which may include
  communications systems, computer networks and systems, cybersecurity systems,
  electrical grid, hazardous waste treatment or water treatment system.

Work Experience

Required:
Four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in purchasing, procurement,
contract administration, or strategic sourcing, preferably in a public sector or higher
education environment.

Working/Environmental Conditions

Routine office environment.
Sitting or standing in one location much of the time.
Some stooping, lifting or carrying objects lightweight may be required.
Use of video display terminal.

Desired start date

Position End Date (if temporary)

Posting Detail Information

UA EEO Statement

It is the policy of Texas Southern University to provide a work environment that is free from discrimination for all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, individuals with disability, sexual orientation, or protected veteran status in its programs, activities, admissions or employment policies. This policy of equal opportunity is strictly observed in all University employment-related activities such as advertising, recruiting, interviewing, testing, employment training, compensation, promotion, termination, and employment benefits. This policy expressly prohibits harassment and discrimination in employment based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, genetic history, national origin, individuals with disability, age, citizenship status, or protected veteran status. This policy shall be adhered to in accordance with the provisions of all applicable federal, state and local laws, including, but not limited to, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.

Manual of Administrative Policies and Procedures

Close Date

Open Until Filled (overrides close field)
Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants
Open to all applicants.
Posting Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. * Do you have a Bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field?
   • Yes
   • No
2. * Do you have Four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in purchasing, procurement, contract administration, or strategic sourcing, preferably in a public sector or higher education environment?
   • Yes
   • No
3. * Do you have one of the following certification: CPPB, CPPO, CTPM, CTCM or CPM?
   • Yes
   • No
4. * Are you a Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD)?
   • Yes
   • No

Applicant Documents
Required Documents

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter/Letter of Application
3. Official Transcripts

Optional Documents

1. Other Document
2. Reference Letter 1
3. Reference Letter 2
4. Reference Letter 3