IT Purchasing Analyst

DataStaff Inc. is seeking an IT Purchasing Analyst for a long-term contract opportunity with one of our direct clients located in Richmond, VA.

*This position is hybrid

Job Description:

The IT Procurement Analyst supports the Procurement and Finance teams by managing statewide technology procurements in compliance with client, and Commonwealth policies. This role requires strong analytical skills, deep knowledge of procurement methods—including IFBs and RFPs—and the ability to operate effectively in a fast‑paced environment. The ideal candidate is a self‑starter who can guide internal stakeholders, negotiate with vendors, and ensure that all procurements deliver best value to the Commonwealth.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement & Contract Management

• Analyze requisitions for goods and services—including hardware, software, and IT services—and procure them in accordance with state policies and procedures.
• Manage formal procurement processes, including Invitations for Bid (IFBs) and Requests for Proposal (RFPs), ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
• Develop procurement strategies, recommend contract vehicles, and identify alternative sourcing options.
• Develop, manage, and maintain a variety of contractual agreements, including term contracts for professional and non‑professional services.
• Negotiate contract terms, conditions, and language changes in coordination with legal Analyst and legal Counsel.
• Ensure compliance with the Governor’s initiative for DSBSD‑certified Micro/Small Business participation.

Stakeholder & Vendor Engagement

• Serve as liaison between vendors, VITA, and internal business users.
• Provide guidance on procurement methods—including IFBs, RFPs, RFIs, SOWs, cooperative procurements, and sole‑source justifications.
• Offer updates on procurement status and advise stakeholders on product availability, vendor performance, pricing, cooperative contracts, and sourcing alternatives.
• Support end users by answering process‑related questions and assisting with proper procurement procedures.

Technical & Analytical Support

• Evaluate highly technical IT procurements and collaborate with subject matter experts, legal counsel, and external partners.
• Apply state and local procurement laws, regulations, and best practices to all purchasing activities.
• Demonstrate stewardship of Commonwealth resources and adherence to all applicable laws and policies.

Required Qualifications

• Experience managing procurement activities within a state or local government environment.
• Strong understanding of VITA policies, IT procurement processes, and technology‑related contracts (licenses, maintenance agreements, etc.).
• Experience with procurement methods such as IFBs, RFPs, RFIs, SOWs, joint cooperative and sole‑source procurements.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to analyze complex information and present clear recommendations.
• Strong customer service orientation and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Certification as Virginia Contracting Associate (VCA) or Virginia Contracting Officer (VCO).
• Highly motivated and proactive
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Skilled in managing formal competitive procurements (IFBs/RFPs)
• Comfortable navigating fast‑paced, high‑volume procurement environments
• Strong negotiation skills with a focus on achieving best value
• Commonwealth Cardinal and eVA procurement systems (preferred).
• Highly motivated and proactive
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Skilled in managing formal competitive procurements (IFBs/RFPs)
• Comfortable navigating fast‑paced, high‑volume procurement environments
• Strong negotiation skills with a focus on achieving best value

Required Skills

• Ability to learn and apply Commonwealth of Virginia, VITA, and client’s procurement rules and tools.
• Experience with IT procurement processes: Obtaining supplier quotes, tracking approvals, processing contract amendments, and enforcing vendor terms.
• Familiarity with Commonwealth contracting laws and state regulations
• Word, Excel, PowerPoint required for documentation, reporting, and analysis.
• Multitasking and task management: Ability to plan, organize, and manage multiple procurement tasks simultaneously.
• Supplier and contract management: Managing vendor relationships, monitoring contract performance, and supporting negotiations.

Desired Skills:

• VCA – Virginia Contracting Associate
• VCO – Virginia Contracting Officer

This opportunity is available as a W2 position with a competitive benefits package. DataStaff, Inc. offers medical, dental, and vision coverage options as well as paid vacation, sick, and holiday leave. As many of our opportunities are long-term, we also have a 401k program available for employees after 6 months.