Strategic Sourcing Purchasing Agent – Hybrid

Job Description

Embry-Riddle: Celebrating 100 Years of Leadership in Aviation and Aerospace

As Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University marks its Centennial, we proudly celebrate 100 years of advancing the future of flight and aerospace education. With vibrant residential campuses in Daytona Beach, FL, and Prescott, AZ — and a Worldwide network spanning nearly 120 global locations — Embry-Riddle stands as the world’s largest aviation and aerospace university.

For a century, we have led innovation in STEM education, serving more than 30,000 students around the globe. Our cutting-edge programs in Applied Science, Aviation, Business, Technology, Engineering, Safety, Security, and Space empower the next generation of leaders to shape the future of flight, exploration, and discovery.

As we launch our next century, we remain committed to excellence, innovation, and preparing graduates who will transform industries and redefine what is possible.

The Opportunity

The Strategic Sourcing Purchasing Agent, Grant and Research Focused, reports directly to the Director of Procurement Services and works in close collaboration with the University’s Research Administration and Finance teams. This position serves as the primary procurement liaison for grant- and research-funded purchases, ensuring compliance with university policies, Uniform Guidance (2 CFR Part 200), Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), and sponsor-specific requirements.

The Purchasing Agent partners closely with faculty, principal investigators (PIs), research administrators, and internal stakeholders to provide procurement guidance, source specialized goods and services, and deliver a high level of customer service. The role also contributes to strategic sourcing initiatives by analyzing spend, negotiating contracts, and developing sourcing strategies to optimize value, mitigate risk, and support the unique needs of grant-funded research.

The successful candidate will be able to work independently on complex projects requiring sound judgment and regulatory knowledge, while also collaborating with Procurement leadership to identify opportunities for spend consolidation, supplier leverage, and process improvements that benefit both research and University-wide procurement.

Perks Await You at Embry-Riddle!

• Health Benefits: Experience comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with wellness programs that include preventive care and fitness memberships. Our flexible spending and health savings accounts simplify managing healthcare costs. Join a workplace that prioritizes your health—because your journey to wellness should be rewarding! Buckle up for a healthier, happier you!
• Tuition Coverage: Get 100% tuition coverage for yourself for one undergraduate and one graduate degree, and discounted rates for your spouse and dependent children up to age 26.
• Retirement Contributions: ERAU contributes an annual 6% gift of your base salary to your retirement plan and offers a 4% matching contribution, with no vesting period.
• Generous Time Off: Generous Time Off: Relax with 18 days of personal leave in your first year. Enjoy 9+ paid holidays, including the day after Thanksgiving and the week between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day.

Qualifications

Required Education and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Procurement, Supply Chain Management, or a related field required.

Experience

• Minimum of 1–3 years of relevant work experience in accounting or finance.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong negotiation, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• In-depth knowledge of supply chain and procurement functions and procedures.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven ability to deliver high levels of customer service to both internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to work proactively and drive process improvements.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
• Experience using procurement tracking systems and tools.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Strong budgeting and financial process awareness.
• Comfortable working collaboratively with both the Budget Office and Controller’s Office on payment and process-related issues.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and in stressful situations.
• High level of accountability and willingness to take ownership of tasks, decisions, and outcomes.