Purchasing Specialist

Benefits of Working at UNCW

At the University of North Carolina Wilmington, we are driven by a clear purpose: to empower student success, advance innovation, and strengthen the communities we serve. Guided by our strategic vision and commitment to excellence, UNCW offers a dynamic and collaborative environment where employees can make meaningful contributions while growing their careers.

Located in coastal North Carolina, UNCW combines the energy of a thriving academic community with the natural beauty of nearby beaches and outdoor spaces. Here, professional opportunity is balanced with an exceptional quality of life—creating a workplace where you can thrive both personally and professionally.

As a member of the Seahawk community, you’ll benefit from a culture that values well‑being, lifelong learning, and connection. UNCW offers a competitive and flexible benefits package designed to support your health, financial well‑being, and professional growth. From comprehensive health coverage and retirement options to generous paid leave, tuition opportunities within the UNC System, learning and development opportunities, and wellness programs, UNCW is committed to helping you thrive both at work and in your personal life.

This position is designated as Exempt from the Human Resources Act ( EHRA ).

The Purchasing Specialist position is responsible for managing the procurement of a diverse portfolio of commodities and services, ensuring the best value, quality, and compliance for the University. The ideal candidate will possess strong research and analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

This position works independently with clients across campus to identify procurement needs, develop sourcing strategies, and facilitate the acquisition of a wide range of goods and services. The Purchasing Specialist provides guidance on contractual terms and conditions, evaluates supplier proposals, and makes recommendations regarding contract awards and vendor agreements.

The position is responsible for developing and administering Requests for Quotes (RFQs), Requests for Proposals (RFPs), and Invitations for Bids (IFBs), as well as processing requisitions, purchase orders, and related procurement transactions. The role requires collaboration with campus stakeholders to ensure timely, effective, and compliant procurement outcomes.

• Conduct thorough research on assigned commodities, including gathering descriptive literature and pricing information.
• Maintain and update contracts in the Contract Tracker system, and develop electronic catalogs to support the university’s mission.
• Collaborate with departments to understand product applications, make plant visits, and assist in preparing specifications.
• Refer to the state contract directory to ensure compliance with state contracts, and seek competitive quotes for items not covered.
• Engage in high‑volume daily interactions with colleagues, internal and external stakeholders, educational institutions, state agencies, and vendors.

Bachelor’s degree; or Associate’s degree and two years of related experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

• Three or more years of procurement experience
• The ability to comprehend and interpret NC general statutes as it relates to purchases and contracts
• Experience using e‑procurement systems such as Jaggaer, SAP Ariba, Oracle Procurement Cloud, etc.
• Ability to develop scopes of work for Request for Proposals and/or Invitations for Bid
• Nationally recognized procurement certification is…