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:

– Advanced Professional

Base Description:

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

Level Summary:

– Demonstrates proficient and comprehensive knowledge of defined skill areas/applications. Applies knowledge of principles, practices, and procedures of a particular field to decision-making and problem–solving. Works under minimum supervision on varied and sometimes difficult work assignments, conferring with supervisor or subject matter experts on unusual matters. May lead others or a team in completion of complex assignments. Interprets and communicates information clearly, accurately, and persuasively. Researches and tries new approaches when solving difficult or novel problems.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

– Indirect supervisor or mentor for other full–time employees
– May serve as direct supervisor for part–time, student, and/or temporary workers, volunteers, or a full–time employee

Fiscal Responsibilities:

– May validate and pay invoices
– May monitor/track budgets and funding

Problem Solving:

– Encounters generally routine problems with progressively more complex and/or varied problems
– Typically follows recommended course of action and procedures to resolve problems
– May apply specialized knowledge and skills to resolve complex and/or varied problems, with supervisor oversight
– Researches and tries new approaches when solving problems

Independence of Action:

– Works with minimal supervision on more difficult work assignments, conferring with supervisor on unusual matters
– Follows precedents and procedures
– May set priorities and organize work within general guidelines established by supervisor

Communication and Collaboration:

– Communicates internally and externally within working unit and the University
– May communicate with external audiences for business purposes
– Promotes open communication in a manner that builds relationships among team members
– Applies appropriate strategies for managing conflict; negotiate reasonable compromises; propose and evaluate possible solutions
– Interprets and communicates information, ideas and instructions clearly, accurately and persuasively both verbally and in written materials intended for distribution

• Comp Grade – 9
• Minimum – $56,200.00
• MidPoint – $68,800.00
• Maximum – $81,500.00