<p>GENERAL DEFINITION:</p> <p>This is the entry level in the professional purchasing class series, effecting purchases of commodities and services in a centralized operating agency. A position in this class initiates and / or receives requisitions or purchase orders, processes those orders and carries out assigned purchasing functions. A position in this class reports directly to the administrative office head position.</p> <p>TYPICAL EXAMPLES OF WORK: (Illustrative Only)</p> <p>Implements and enforces regulations and procedures governing purchasing and procurement; obtains verbal and written price quotations on various supplies, equipment and services for users; identifies new sources for standard items; enters purchase orders; processes invoices, contacts suppliers for clarification when necessary; answers questions and inquiries from suppliers and / or users about purchasing in general or the status of specific procurement actions; works with suppliers, users and others concerning the purchasing of supplies and equipment; maintains records of all activities and reports on same.</p> <p>Procures required goods and services in a cost-effective manner and within the parameters of established regulations and procedures, determining whether to seek alternate supplier sources and / or competitive price quotes.</p> <p>Expedites orders as required; troubleshoots and resolves issues arising with Purchase Orders; assures vendor compliance with specifications, schedules and other terms and conditions; maintains file records; checks on outstanding orders.</p> <p>Performs related work as required.</p> <p>REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:</p> <p>Basic knowledge, techniques and legal requirements commonly employed in purchasing commodities and services used by government at the local level.</p> <p>Basic knowledge of functions, organization and operations commonly found in government at the local level.</p> <p>Basic knowledge of commodities, services and suppliers applicable to assigned agency.</p> <p>Ability to process purchasing activities, maintain inventory control and use a variety of office equipment.</p> <p>Knowledge in using personal computers including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook) and internet applications.</p> <p>Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, individuals in all County agencies and suppliers using principles of good customer service.</p> <p>Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.</p> <p>ACCEPTABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:</p> <p>High School diploma or equivalent, Associates degree in Business Administration or related field preferred.</p> <p>Two (2) to two (2) years purchasing experience.</p> <p>Possession of Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) issued by the Universal Public Purchasing Certification Council (UPPC) for NIGP: The Institute for Public Procurement or eligibility for and attainment of certification within one (1) year (subject to available budget funding) of hire.</p> <p>Or any equivalent combination of acceptable training and experience which has provided the knowledge, skills and abilities cited above.</p>