Senior Procurement Specialist

WHO ARE WE: At Natural Systems Utilities, we are dedicated to providing sustainable, innovative solutions in the water and wastewater services industry. Specializing in the design, operation, and maintenance of utility systems, we prioritize environmental responsibility, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Join our team and be part of an organization that values teamwork, integrity, and a commitment to a sustainable future.

SUMMARY:  The Senior Procurement Specialist is responsible for managing procurement activities in support of NSU’s construction projects, site services operations, and ongoing facility needs. This role operates with a high degree of independence and judgment in sourcing materials, equipment, and services critical to operational continuity. The position partners closely with Operations and Finance leadership to ensure cost-effective purchasing decisions, reliable vendor performance, and timely delivery of resources necessary to meet project and operational objectives.

 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage the sourcing of materials, equipment, services, and alternative supply solutions to support construction projects, site services operations, and ongoing facility needs. 
• Issue and administer purchase orders, ensuring alignment with project timelines, operational priorities, and budget considerations.
• Obtain and evaluate quotes and bids from suppliers and subcontractors, recommending cost-effective and operationally sound purchasing decisions. 
• Negotiate and administer vendor agreements that support competitive pricing, service reliability, and operational efficiency.
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with vendors, subcontractors, and national account representatives.
• Evaluate vendor performance and recommend improvements, alternative sourcing strategies, or consolidation opportunities.
• Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives and recommend procurement strategies that support operational and financial objectives.
• Monitor purchasing activity against project budgets and escalate significant variances as appropriate.
• Serve as a key procurement resource to Project Managers, Site Supervisors, and Operations leadership across multiple active projects.
• Provide guidance to project teams on procurement best practices, vendor utilization, and purchasing procedures.
• Exercise independent judgment in sourcing materials and services during supply disruptions, urgent operational needs, or shifting project priorities.
• Support the development and standardization of procurement processes to improve efficiency and operational consistency across regions.
• Monitor market conditions, pricing trends, and supply risks to support informed purchasing decisions.
• Track deliveries and coordinate logistics to minimize operational downtime at construction and O&M sites.
• Independently coordinate emergency and expedited purchases to maintain continuity of critical systems and services.
• Ensure vendors comply with applicable safety, environmental, insurance, and contractual requirements.
• Maintain accurate procurement documentation, including quotes, purchase orders, contracts, and vendor records to support audit readiness.
• Partner with Finance on invoice reconciliation, budget tracking, and resolution of purchasing discrepancies.

 QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Construction Management, or related field preferred; equivalent progressive field experience will be considered.
• 5–7 years of progressive procurement or sourcing experience in construction, utilities, industrial services, or field-based operational environments.
• Demonstrated ability to operate independently and make sound purchasing decisions aligned with operational priorities and financial guidelines.
• Experience negotiating pricing, delivery schedules, service agreements, and vendor performance expectations.
• Experience supporting multiple active projects with competing timelines and urgent procurement needs.
• Familiarity with construction materials, site services equipment, subcontracted services, and regional vendor networks.
• Experience utilizing ERP or procurement systems to support purchasing workflows, reporting, and vendor management.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and vendor relationship management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including strong Excel capabilities.
• This position is expected to exercise independent judgment in procurement decisions within established company guidelines.
• Experience supporting procurement in a growth-oriented or multi-regional operational environment is strongly preferred.

COMPETENCIES: 

• Customer Service – Demonstrates a strong service orientation while balancing operational priorities, cost considerations, and vendor performance expectations. 
• Interpersonal Skills – Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; maintains confidentiality; listens to others without interrupting; keeps emotions under control; remains open to others' ideas and tries new things.
• Oral Communication – Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; listens and gets clarification; responds well to questions; demonstrates group presentation skills; participates in meetings.
• Written Communication – Writes clearly and informatively; edits work for spelling and grammar; varies writing style to meet needs; presents numerical data effectively; able to read and interpret written information.
• Teamwork – Balances team and individual responsibilities; exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; gives and welcomes feedback; contributes to building a positive team spirit; puts success of team above own interests; able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives; supports everyone's efforts to succeed.
• Professionalism – Approaches others in a tactful manner; reacts well under pressure; treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; accepts responsibility for own actions; follows through on commitments.
• Attendance/Punctuality – Is consistently at work and on time; ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent; arrives at meetings and appointments on time.
• Diversity – Demonstrates knowledge of EEO policy; shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; educates others on the value of diversity; promotes a harassment-free environment; builds a diverse workforce.
• Ethics – Treats people with respect; keeps commitments; inspires the trust of others; works with integrity and ethically; upholds organizational values.

 PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Occasionally required to stand
• Occasionally required to walk
• Frequently required to sit
• Frequently required to utilize hand and finger dexterity
• Frequently required to talk or hear
• Frequently utilize visual acuity to operate equipment, read technical information, and/or use a keyboard

 EQUIPMENT:

Computer and/or tablet and other office productivity machinery, such as a copy machine, scanner, and computer printer.

WHAT WE OFFER:

• Top-Tier Benefits: We offer comprehensive medical, vision, and dental insurance to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employer-Paid Basic Life Insurance: Your peace of mind matters, and we provide employer-paid life insurance to protect you and your loved ones.
• Disability Coverage: With both short-term and long-term disability coverage, you can feel secure knowing you're supported during difficult times.
• Tuition Reimbursement: We are committed to helping you enhance your career. NSU offers tuition reimbursement to support your ongoing education and professional development.
• Mentorship: At NSU, you're not alone. Our team includes experienced mentors who have been in the business for years, offering guidance and support every step of the way.
• Motivated Team: Join a team of passionate, driven individuals who are dedicated to making a real impact on the environment and the communities we serve.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Natural Systems Utilities provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, NSU complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training