Course Materials Buyer

Course Materials Buyer

Under the direction of the Director of Course Materials, the Course Materials Buyer supports a wide range of professional, technical and administrative duties that support the procurement, inventory management, and distribution of physical and digital course materials for California Baptist University (CBU). This position collaborates with faculty, vendors, and internal stakeholders to ensure timely and accurate course material adoption, purchasing, and availability across on campus, online, and satellite learning environments.

The role also assists with the training and oversight of student employees and requires strong organizational, analytical, communication, and customer service skills. The incumbent is expected to uphold university policies and support CBU's Christ-centered mission and values. Extended hours, including overtime, will be required during peak operational periods.

To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to effectively carry out all essential duties. The following requirements outline the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for the role:

• Demonstrated commitment to living out and upholding the University's Christ-centered mission and values.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including advanced working knowledge of Excel and other business software.
• Ability to effectively utilize enterprise systems and technology platforms, including ERP systems, course materials management software, eCommerce platforms, and automated data import/export tools.
• Working knowledge of business English, basic mathematics, and standard office practices, procedures, and equipment.
• Ability to develop and maintain databases, manage data integrity, and generate reports for operational and strategic decision-making.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple assignments, meet deadlines, and maintain a high level of accuracy.
• Effective and persuasive written and verbal communication skills, including professional correspondence, report preparation, presentations, and customer interactions.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Strong analytical skills, including the ability to gather, interpret, and present data in a meaningful and actionable format.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students, vendors, and external partners.
• Ability to train, mentor, and provide functional oversight to student employees, including organizing, assigning, and monitoring work.
• Ability to interpret, apply, and adapt policies, procedures, and operational guidelines.
• Strong problem-solving and customer service skills, including the ability to effectively resolve concerns and provide timely support.

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, and use hands and fingers to operate computers and other office equipment. The employee must have sufficient visual acuity to read printed and electronic materials and communicate effectively in person, virtually, and by telephone.

The employee may occasionally lift, move, or carry materials weighing up to 45 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Work is typically performed in a professional office and retail environment with moderate noise levels. The position may require occasional work in stockroom or warehouse areas and periodic physical inventory activities. Exposure to health or safety hazards is minimal.

Education and/or Experience - Associate degree from an accredited two-year college or technical school and one (1) year of related experience preferred; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Experience in purchasing, inventory management, retail operations, course materials management, or a higher education environment is preferred.