What are the responsibilities and job description for the Buyer/Purchasing Agent position at School District of Manatee County?
About Us
The School District of Manatee County is proud to be the largest employer in Manatee County, with more than 6,000 dedicated team members serving our students, families, and community. Located along Florida’s Gulf Coast, our district offers the unique opportunity to work in a vibrant area featuring 27 miles of stunning beaches and an average annual temperature of 72.7 degrees.
With a tradition of excellence, we are committed to preparing students for success by developing lifelong learners—and we are seeking professionals who share our passion for service and impact.
Position Overview
The Buyer (State Title: Purchasing Agent) plays a critical role in ensuring the District procures goods and services that meet quality standards and provide the best overall value. This position supports the success of the Purchasing Department through strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, vendor collaboration, and mentorship of team members.
Key Responsibilities
- Utilize appropriate strategies and problem-solving tools to make decisions regarding planning, utilization of funds, delivering services and evaluation of services provided.
- In areas of responsibility, negotiate and write contracts for approval of Director.
- Manage the bid process, consisting of: developing and distributing bid offerings, conducting bid, quote and proposal openings, coordinating and leading the tabulation and evaluation of bids, quotes and proposals.
- Develop or assist in developing specifications to assure customer quality and satisfaction, and maintain files of approved standards and specifications in areas of responsibility.
- Develop and maintain catalogs of equipment and supplies and assist in the determination of countywide needs for specific categories of materials and services.
- Maintain a library for use in rating purchase orders and bids and in preparing specifications.
- Assist district personnel in effectively accomplishing on-line ordering.
- Assure proper communication with district personnel and suppliers regarding placement of orders and resolving discrepancies with existing orders.
- Respond to inquiries and concerns in a timely manner.
- Attend training sessions, conferences and workshops to keep abreast of current practices, programs and legal issues.
- Stay informed and disseminate information about current research, trends and best practices in areas of responsibility.
- Keep supervisor informed of potential problems or unusual events.
- Provide assistance in the development of annual goals and objectives for the department.
- Mentor Purchasing personnel as assigned, as well as, supervise assigned personnel, conduct annual performance appraisals, and make recommendations for appropriate employment actions.
- Prepare or oversee the preparation of all required reports and maintain all appropriate records.
- Demonstrate initiative in identifying potential problems or opportunities for improvement and take appropriate actions.
- Review and approve the preparation of purchase orders and store room requisitions related to categories of materials and services.
- Assure the satisfactory receipt of materials or services through supervision of expediting, follow-up and delivery of materials and services.
- Supervise the documentation of evidence needed for accounting purposes.
- Provide on-line purchase order approvals.
- Meet with suppliers to obtain updated information, discuss current problems and future releases, and visit sites as required.
- Assist with the ongoing implementation and improvement of purchasing software systems.
- Evaluate products for use within the District.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum of five (5) years of successful experience at the buyer level
- Certified Professional Public Buyer (C.P.P.B.) certification or equivalent preferred
- Equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong knowledge of modern purchasing practices, state statutes, and School Board policies
- Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work in a fast-paced environment
- Proven analytical and decision-making skills with the ability to use data effectively
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Strong relationship-building skills with internal teams and external vendors
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and purchasing software systems
- Ability to manage multiple projects with minimal supervision
- High level of professionalism in handling sensitive information
- Flexibility and ability to work effectively under pressure
Reporting Structure
- Reports to: Purchasing Director
- Supervises: Associate Buyer
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Light work: occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds and/or frequent lifting of up to 10 pounds
Compensation & Benefits
Salary and benefits are competitive and aligned with the District’s approved compensation plan. Work schedules and contract terms are established by the School District of Manatee County.
Why Join Us?
- Make a meaningful impact on public education in a growing community
- Work alongside a committed and collaborative team
- Enjoy a premium quality of life in beautiful Manatee County