Logo
City of Binghamton

Purchasing Agent

City of Binghamton, Binghamton, New York, United States

Save Job

Purchasing Agent (Tested Position) General employment applications may be obtained at the office of the Municipal Civil Service Commission, 4th floor, City Hall, Governmental Plaza, Binghamton, New York, 13901 or from the City WebSite at cityofbinghamton-ny.gov. Application deadline: 4:45 P.M. on the last file date.

Distinguishing Features Of The Class This is an important administrative position involved in purchasing activities of the City under the supervision of the Comptroller. The Purchasing Agent works with all departments in the procurement of goods and services in conformance with city policy and state and federal laws and regulations. The role includes recommending purchasing strategies to achieve the best value for the City, assisting departments and accounts payables staff with vendor contract management, invoice payment, solicitation of quotes, and facilitating requests for proposals/quotations.

Typical Work Activities • Oversees all purchasing activities in the City or a major operating agency.

• Obtains clear specifications for contracting materials, supplies, and equipment.

• Analyzes and seeks alternative buying methods to secure best prices.

• Supervises purchase, receipt, storage, and distribution activities.

• Manages formal advertising of bid invitations, attends bid openings, and analyzes bids.

• Awards contracts according to state statutes and city ordinances.

• Collaborates with corporation counsel to determine bid deposits, performance bonds, and liability insurance.

• Responds to bid inquiries via correspondence or telephone.

Full Performance Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Personal Characteristics • Thorough knowledge of markets, trade conditions, business methods, and purchasing practices.

• Familiarity with modern governmental purchasing principles and practices.

• Good knowledge of current specifications preparation practices.

• Ability to plan and supervise work of others.

• Ability to understand technical oral and written directions.

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college with a Bachelors degree in Business Management or related field and 1 year of large‑scale purchasing experience.

Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered 2‑year college with an Associate’s degree in Business Management or related field and 3 years of large‑scale purchasing experience.

High School diploma or equivalency diploma and 5 years of large‑scale purchasing experience.

NOTE: Experience with MUNIS and certification as a Certified Public Purchasing Official are a plus.

The City of Binghamton is an equal opportunity employer committed to workforce diversification. All new hires are required to pass a pre‑employment drug test. Broome County residency is required at the time of appointment.

Seniority level

Entry level

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Purchasing and Supply Chain

Industries

Government Administration

#J-18808-Ljbffr