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Penn State Job Catalog

Procurement Agent – Professional (PSU0302)

Additional Levels
Job Strings

Job Summary

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.

Representative Duties

  • 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 Matrix

Level:
Professional
Base Description:
– Completes activities, tasks, and/or projects of a functional nature.
Level Summary:
– Demonstrates baseline working knowledge of routine work tasks. Follows the standard principles and practices. Acts under direct and frequent supervision using established procedures with detailed instructions. Participates as a team member and actively contributes to completion of team goals. Clearly communicates information.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
– None
Fiscal Responsibilities:
– Typically none
Problem Solving:
– Encounters routine problems
– Follows recommended course of action and procedures to resolve problems
Independence of Action:
– Work is closely monitored by supervisor
– Detailed instructions and procedures are provided
– Applies standard operating procedures with limited guidelines for deviation
Communication and Collaboration:
– Typically communicates internally within working unit
– Collaborates closely with team members
– Clearly communicates information, ideas, or instructions verbally and in writing
Salary Structure
  • Comp Grade – 7
  • Minimum – $46,400.00
  • MidPoint – $56,800.00
  • Maximum – $67,300.00
FLSA Exemption Status
Non-Exempt
Minimum Education
Bachelor's Degree
Minimum Experience
No prior relevant work experience required
Equivalency
Or an equivalent combination of education and experience
Additional Job Requirements