About This Role:

The IT Purchasing Agent (Purchasing Agent II) is a full-time Unclassified position in the Division of Financial Services. The position supports the day-to-day operations and tactical functions of the central Purchasing and Contract Services Office related to the procurement of Information Technology goods and services. Responsibilities for this position include:

• Perform strategic sourcing management for information technology products and services, optimizing value of spend and IT support efficiencies.
• Examples include hardware, software, networking services, implementation, maintenance, and data management.
• Uses professional judgment to determine when competition is required.
• Procures information technology goods and services on a competitive basis by compiling and refining solicitation specifications, researching and identifying potential sources, and preparing formal solicitation documents in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Information Officer (CIO).
• Collaborates with campus departments and key IT experts on defining required performance measures and award criteria.
• Develop RF(x) templates for information technology solicitations that clearly address minimum required security, accessibility, and PCI requirements.
• Perform procurement reporting and analysis of information technology acquisitions to identify potential opportunities for improvement and innovate procurement solutions.
• Facilitate engagement between campus departments and IT Project Governance Group prior to procurement of information technology products or services.
• Perform ongoing vendor outreach and develops and professionally manages effective relationships with vendors.
• Procures information technology goods and services for moderate to complex and highly technical purchases through the enhanced solicitation or waiver of solicitation processes.
• Guides departments through procurement lifecycle process, from requisition to execution of contract.
• Work with campus purchasing liaisons to identify key needs and requirements and ensure they are clearly identified in specifications and addressed in final award.
• Collaborates with campus departments on defining performance measures and award criteria.
• Facilitate required campus reviews including the IT Technical and Risk & Compliance reviews. Gather key information and provide to IT and Risk experts, serving as the key liaison between the vendor and KSU, includes gathering of information related to security, ADA accommodation and PCI compliance requirements.
• Interprets and analyzes responses, communicates the results, and collaborates with the department on selecting awarded supplier(s).
• Works with Purchasing Contract Administrator and Office of General Counsel to negotiate and award the contract.
• Utilizes professional judgment in the adaptation and skilled application of guidelines to solve the full range of problems related to the assignment. Anticipates and analyzes the impact and consequences of decisions.
• Daily contact with campus departments, leadership and suppliers
• Facilitate negotiation and renewal of established information technology contracts.
• Represents the purchasing organization in meetings and/or committees with vendors, government agencies, professional associations and other organizations.
• Operates an outreach program with the campus community by providing training in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Information Officer (CIO) regarding information technology procurement, policies and processes.
• Disseminates professional purchasing advice to departments and suppliers by interpreting state, KBOR and university rules, policies, procedures, and processes.
• Independently develops, implements and administers state and university contracts, agreements and awards.
• Other duties as assigned.

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays.   To see what benefits are available, please visit:  https://www.k-state.edu/hcs/benefits

We Support Diversity and Inclusion:

Kansas State University embraces diversity and inclusion.  The university actively seeks individuals who foster a collegial environment and cooperative interactions with coworkers, students, and others.  The University is dedicated to promoting the Principles of Community.

This position is required to be performed on-site. Work is performed on employer premises or designated assignment location.

Visit this link for K-State’s guidance and policies on remote work and flexible work arrangements. Remote work agreements are required for all flexible work arrangements and are subject to review.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Three years of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Management Information Systems, Supply Chain Management, Accounting, Political Science, Public Administration, Business Administration, or closely related field.
• Prior experience in a higher education institution.
• Ability to read and comprehend legal contracting language; University, KBOR policies and procedures and State statues, Uniform Guidance policies, and technical jargon in specifications and contracts
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing detailed reports of findings and recommendations
• Experience analyzing and reporting data
• Experience leading teams, demonstrating ability to accomplish goals
• Strong IT background, including understanding of technology solutions and services, understanding Data Privacy Laws, understanding Electronic and Information Accessibility Standards, contracting risk associated with software purchases, and strategic sourcing
• Creative Problem Solver
• Self-Directed Team Player

Other Requirements:

• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment

How to Apply:

Please submit the following documents:

1. Cover Letter
2. Resume
3. Three professional references with current contact information

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled.

Anticipated Hiring Salary Range:

$53,000 to $68,000 Annually   

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans and actively seeks diversity among its employees.

Background Screening Statement:

In connection with your application for employment, Kansas State University will procure a Background Screen on you as part of the process of considering your candidacy as an employee.