SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION:
Under the direction of the division director, performs purchasing duties in direct connection with planning, coordinating, and obtaining instructional materials, supplies, equipment and professional services at competitive prices for the operation of schools and offices. Work of this class involves executing purchase orders in accordance with MCPS procurement policies, formal bid and request for proposal (RFP) procedures, and applicable federal/state laws governing the procurement of goods and services. Adheres to the Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement (ICPA) procurement practices. Evaluates purchase requests and determine appropriate bid procedures, prepare in conjunction with the requestor, bid specifications, change orders, identification of sources of supply, initiate the preparation of bid documents and notices, administer the evaluation of bids and offers, and recommend awards for board approval. Conducts market research and confers with contractors, vendors, and their representatives discussing materials, equipment, supplies, services, prices; and evaluates and determines under guidance of senior buyers which combination will best suit the school system's needs. Physical Demands:None.Special Requirements:Occasional overtime, some night work and weekend work may be required. May be required to travel to local sites. Must possess transportation to attend meetings throughout Montgomery County, Washington D.C. and Baltimore Metropolitan area.
SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION:
Under the direction of the division director, performs purchasing duties in direct connection with planning, coordinating, and obtaining instructional materials, supplies, equipment and professional services at competitive prices for the operation of schools and offices. Work of this class involves executing purchase orders in accordance with MCPS procurement policies, formal bid and request for proposal (RFP) procedures, and applicable federal/state laws governing the procurement of goods and services. Adheres to the Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement (ICPA) procurement practices. Evaluates purchase requests and determine appropriate bid procedures, prepare in conjunction with the requestor, bid specifications, change orders, identification of sources of supply, initiate the preparation of bid documents and notices, administer the evaluation of bids and offers, and recommend awards for board approval. Conducts market research and confers with contractors, vendors, and their representatives discussing materials, equipment, supplies, services, prices; and evaluates and determines under guidance of senior buyers which combination will best suit the school system's needs. Physical Demands:None.Special Requirements:Occasional overtime, some night work and weekend work may be required. May be required to travel to local sites. Must possess transportation to attend meetings throughout Montgomery County, Washington D.C. and Baltimore Metropolitan area.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Must be proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite, software programs; database expertise in Oracle Cloud software programs is preferred. Ability to manage a large volume in an active environment; ability to review and interpret complex evaluation procedures, requiring analysis of life-cycle costs and quantitative analysis skills. Considerable knowledge of and ability to apply the intergovernmental cooperative purchasing agreement/contract (ICPA) best practices. Ability to conduct market research and to analyze cost proposals in sufficient detail, and draft complex written assessments to determine best value for MCPS. Integral team member that helps the Department of Procurement ensure a smooth functioning team to meet MCPS internal and external customer needs. Must be innovative and receptive to change with skills and the ability to organize, plan, and execute work with minimal supervision. Essential to have the skill and ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing, with individuals at many levels within and outside the school system Ability to supervise, train and counsel staff in the accomplishment of their duties and responsibilities. Knowledge of or the ability to quickly learn and meet the seven core competencies of the Supporting Services Professional Growth System (SSPGS).
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor's degree required. College course work in business administration, marketing, or a related field. Considerable increasingly responsible experience in the field of procurement and supply chain management. Other combinations of applicable education, training, and experience which provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position may be considered.CERTIFICATE AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS: Must possess or obtain certification as a Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) within 6 months of eligibility. Requirements to obtain such certification can be reviewed on the UPPCC website. http://www.uppcc.org/certified/newcertelig.aspx