Penn State Job Catalog

Additional levels that exist for this job profile can be seen below.

The defined natural career progression within or between job profiles.

Procurement 

The Procurement Agent purchases commodities within the assigned category in accordance with University policies and government regulations with purchase approval limits; conducts competitive Request for Proposal or Request for Quotation processes; negotiates with vendors and evaluates vendor performance and compliance; serves as a liaison with University departments and outside organizations; monitors customer satisfaction and solves problems; uses electronic systems to conduct business transactions and compile information; and reviews, evaluates and/or manages contracts.

• Negotiate with vendors as it relates to price, delivery, payment, contracts and agreements, specifications, and purchase order terms to increase buying power
• Evaluate, review, and approve purchases within the assigned category
• Monitor vendor performance and compliance, resolve discrepancies, and inspect for quality
• Evaluate suppliers based on the price, quality, and speed of delivery of their products and services
• Analyze price proposals, financial reports, and other information to determine reasonable prices
• Monitor contracts to be sure that vendors and suppliers comply with the terms and conditions of the contract and University policy
• Monitor, document and facilitate product recalls
• Coordinate with the Accounting department as required to resolve questions on suppliers' invoices
• Monitor customer satisfaction through exchanging information and solving problems
• May utilize a variety of electronic systems to manage requisitions, conduct auctions, and manage vendors and/or inventories
• May supervise staff and direct the work of others

Level:

– Intermediate Professional

Base Description:

– Completes activities, tasks, and/or projects of a functional nature.

Level Summary:

– Demonstrates ability to perform intermediate tasks in defined skill areas. Demonstrates intermediate knowledge of internal procedures. Works under general supervision, performing assignments that may be varied and sometimes difficult. Supports team decisions and follows through with team responsibilities. Interprets and communicates information clearly and accurately. Demonstrates intermediate problem–solving skills.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

– May serve as direct supervisor for part–time, student, and/or temporary workers or volunteers

Fiscal Responsibilities:

– May validate and pay invoices

Problem Solving:

– Encounters generally routine problems; occasionally faces more complex and/or varied problems
– Typically follows recommended course of action and procedures to resolve problems
– Applies knowledge of larger unit goals, priorities, and related procedures in determining course of action

Independence of Action:

– Work is generally monitored by supervisor
– Detailed instructions and procedures are generally provided
– Uses available guidelines to make appropriate adaptations to routine situations and refers other situations to supervisor

Communication and Collaboration:

– Communicates internally within working unit and/or the University
– May communicate with external audiences
– Collaborates closely with team members
– Interprets and communicates information, ideas and instructions clearly and accurately both verbally and in written materials intended for distribution

• Comp Grade – 8
• Minimum – $51,000.00
• MidPoint – $62,500.00
• Maximum – $74,000.00