BUYER
PRIMARY FUNCTION
Under the direction of the Purchasing Supervisor to purchase materials, supplies, equipment and services as required by various departments of the District; maintain purchasing records and files.
This is a non-exempt position and is part of the Administrative, Technical and Clerical Bargaining Unit.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Process purchase requisitions and purchase orders; review requisitions and prepare specifications for bidding; evaluate and award bids; obtain oral and written price quotes; create bid recap summaries using a spread sheet application; recommend bid awards; compare cost, negotiate for best price and terms, and evaluate quality of materials; remedy discrepancies between purchase orders and invoices; follow up on orders of material and equipment; provide technical assistance to using departments to assess needs; maintain selected stores materials at required inventory levels; contact and interview sales personnel in order to stay informed on new products; maintain purchasing records and files; prepare reports and correspondence; enter purchase orders into computer program; locate sources of supply; resolve problems with discrepancies or damaged shipments; prepare return material authorizations; assist in annual physical inventories.
OTHER RELATED DUTIES
Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATION STANDARDS
Any combination of education, experience, knowledge and abilities may satisfy the necessary minimum qualifications. A typical way to obtain the education, experience, knowledge and abilities would be:
Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
Experience: At least three (3) years of clerical experience to include minimum two (2) years of buying experience (utility or public buying experience preferred).
Knowledge and Abilities: Knowledge of purchasing database systems; purchasing procedures and laws affecting purchasing, current practices of a central purchasing operation; inventory control and warehouse methods; sources of supply and methods of securing competitive bids in a utility industry preferred. Ability to maintain records and files; operate word processing and spreadsheet software; work with minimal supervision; exercise sound judgment; operate a variety of office equipment, including a 10-key calculator, typewriter and word processor, work cooperatively with management staff, employees and the public; communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
Special Requirement: Must have a valid California Class C driver license.
rev. 09/17/08