Purchasing Agent

The primary purpose of the Purchasing Agent is to support county operations by managing the full procurement lifecycle, including needs assessment, solicitation, bid evaluation, contract negotiation, and vendor performance monitoring. The role ensures the county obtains the best value while maintaining transparency, accountability, and compliance with county, state, and federal procurement laws and policies. This position collaborates closely with internal departments and external vendors to promote operational efficiency, fiscal responsibility, and ethical purchasing throughout the procurement process.

• Prepare and manage the full processes of RFP/RFQ/RFB, including advertising, responding to vendor questions, bid openings, and vendor onsite tours if applicable.
• Administer and oversee the full centralized procurement lifecycle, including sourcing, bidding, purchasing, pricing negotiations, procurement integrity, and adherence to local, state, and federal rules and conflict-of-interest.
• Ensure fair and ethical treatment of vendors and promote competitive procurement practices.
• Maintain the vendor database, identify qualified vendors, and conduct market research, pricing, and sourcing options.
• Monitor vendor contracts for compliance, certifications, insurance, and performance; address non-compliance or performance issues as needed.
• Develop, implement, and monitor procurement policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Provide guidance and training to County departments on procurement practices, contract compliance, and policy adherence.
• Maintain detailed procurement logs, documentation, performance reporting, and audit support, ensuring procurement integrity and transparency.
• Collaborate with department heads to conduct needs assessments, annual planning, and project scoping, including checking fund availability, budget alignment, and pricing negotiations.
• Prepare and present procurement reports, metrics, and analysis to leadership and stakeholders.
• Coordinate and process all County purchasing activities to ensure consistency, cost savings, and best value.
• Review and process purchase requisitions, ensuring proper authorization and budget compliance.
• Prepare and issue purchase orders, bid solicitations (RFQs/RFPs/IFBs), and related procurement documents.
• Assist departments in developing product specifications and evaluating vendor proposals and bids.
• Research market trends and identify opportunities for cost savings or cooperative purchasing.
• Collaborate with Accounts Payable to resolve discrepancies in invoices, pricing, or deliveries.
• Assist with internal audits and updates to procurement policies to ensure continued compliance with statutory and County requirements.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Associate’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Supply Chain Management, or related field required.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in purchasing, procurement, or contract administration, preferably in a public sector environment.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

• Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB), Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP), or equivalent credential preferred, or ability to obtain within two years of hire.
• Valid driver’s license or the ability to travel between work locations.
• Prior to hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the position.

• Knowledge of public procurement laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to interpret and apply purchasing policies and procedures.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and…