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POSITION SPECIFICS
The Penn State Office of Central Procurement team is searching for a Procurement Agent. Central Procurement has a vision to develop and execute sound business and cost-effective Purchasing solutions to enable the teaching, research, and service mission of the University.
The Pennsylvania State University seeks a Procurement Agent for the Housing and Food Service (HFS) Procurement Office. This position will procure products and services for University Housing and Food Service operations and other supported food service operations in accordance with operational needs and University Policies.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively to analyze spending patterns and review historical usage to forecast and anticipate customer needs and leverage buying power, reduce costs, and ensure the needs of all operations are met. The position actively negotiates with suppliers and establishes vendor partnerships and agreements. This position also maintains and manages inventory levels within the HFS warehouse for assigned commodities.
The Procurement Agent:
Prepares procurement documentation, including quotes and agreements, required to support and approve purchase orders within designated authority limits
Reviews and processes annual contracts for food related supplies and services
Ensures the proper flow of goods and services to maintain and support Housing and Food Service and other supported facilities
Researches, identifies, evaluates, and monitors vendor relationships and performance in the best interest of the University
Monitors order status to ensure timely deliveries
Resolves discrepancies related to orders, invoices, or shipments
Conducts new product and specification research, including maintenance of current specifications
Forecasts needs and maintains inventory of assigned commodities
Ensures procurement activities comply with University policies and regulations, maintain accurate records including contracts and supplier documentation, and support audit and reporting requirements
Experience and skills required to be successful in this role:
Appropriate negotiating skills to achieve optimum price, delivery terms, payment terms, and purchase order terms and deliver best value solutions to the University
Forecasting and Inventory Management
A high degree of organization and problem-solving skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
Experience in the Food Service industry preferred
Sound principles of customer satisfaction
This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree
3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY &…