Buyer (Regular)

Performs skilled purchasing work of a relatively complex nature under limited supervision of the Manager, Procurement Services:

Procures equipment, materials and services for operating maintenance purchasing and inventory MRO stock as required to ensure maintenance service requirements are met and inventory levels are controlled.

Procurement services includes the following:

Reviews and evaluates incoming requests to ensure requests comply with existing policies and procedures and have adequate technical specification or scope of work.

Prepares competitive bid documents for stock, operations, capital work projects and special-order items.

Performs vendor pre-qualification, research availability, quality & price. Evaluates bids, provides spreadsheet with commercial recommendation and resolves technical concerns with the originator or appropriate bidder. Awards to the successful bidder and issues regrets to remainder.

Selects vendors & negotiates all commercial terms of purchase order. Negotiates with supply sources to initiate orders or resolve disputes and claims.

Expedites all orders including tracking shipments in transit to ensure materials are received by deadline.

Evaluates vendor capabilities by meeting with vendors & suppliers to investigate & determine alternative supply sources for new product opportunities or seeking efficiency gains with respect to future transactions. Monitors vendor activities & market conditions in general.

Works with Manager, Procurement Services & Operations staff with identifying Asset Investment Recovery opportunities & spearheads disposal projects.

Reconciles invoices with inventory receiving to ensure charges are accurate in terms of receipt, coding, back orders.

Purchases a diversified range of supplies and services for City divisions. Investigates and documents product standardization opportunities. Reviews packing slips, records back orders or short shipments, contacts suppliers to expedite orders and make necessary adjustments regarding replacements, incomplete orders, damaged supplies or unsatisfactory services.

Compiles purchasing, inventory and financial information, including general ledger & purchase order reports.

Maintains library and other purchasing material to support City personnel in seeking current information and pricing on products.

Answers telephone/website inquiries, provides information, and interacts effectively with City staff, suppliers and the general public.

Monitors alarm system reports for the Central Stores Warehouse and investigates any discrepancies.

This position is required to provide Storeskeeper relief during vacation or absence.

Performs related duties as required.

All persons employed by the City of Vernon will be required to assist the City in providing emergency services. Duties assigned during an emergency may differ from regular duties.

Completion of any of the following: The Procurement School, Public Sector Procurement Program (PSPP), National Institute of Supply Chain Leaders (NISCL) Certified Supply Chain Leader (CSCL) or programs, Supply Chain Canada (SCC) Supply Management Training (SMT) or Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP), or ASCM (formerly APICS) Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP).

Two years experience as a Buyer.

Experience in competitive bidding and contract administration.

Solid understanding of purchasing protocol and legal responsibilities and liabilities.

Valid BC Driver’s Licence – Class 5.

A combination of related education and experience may be considered.

The Procurement School, Public Sector Procurement Program Level 100, 200 or 300.

Thorough knowledge and experience with municipal purchasing and contracts.

Practicing Junior to intermediate Buyer responsibilities, preferably in a public setting.

Previous experience in operational and capital procurement.

Forklift Operator Ticket.

Transportation of Dangerous Goods Certification.

Please submit your resume, quoting the appropriate competition online at vernon.ca/careers by selecting “apply” and creating a candidate profile.

Internal applicants are asked to apply using their worker profile.

The City of Vernon wishes to thank all applicants; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Please note that we are unable to accept phone calls regarding application status.