Purchasing Agent II

This position manages all aspects of procurement solicitations including terms and conditions for the University. Provides expertise for complex or unique procurement and contracting in accordance with procurement procedures and regulations. Makes...

  • 520810
  • Manhattan, Kansas, United States
  • Division of Financial Services
  • Staff Full Time (Unclassified - Regular)
  • Closing on: Jan 15 2026
  • Hybrid eligible

About This Role

The purpose of the position is to support the day-to-day operations and tactical functions of the central purchasing office to support University departments in contract negotiations for enterprise commodities and services such as Information Technology, Capital Construction, Supply Chain, or Higher Education University Research related products. Based on professional experience, knowledge, and using the highest ethical conduct, this position makes procurement contracting decisions for the university community by clarifying requirements, while interpreting and analyzing data and circumstances. The Purchasing Contract Administrator is the primary liaison to university departments and vendors guiding them through the contracting process to obtain the best contract terms for the university. Judgment is used in the adaptation and skilled application of guidelines to solve the full range of problems related to each procurement.

Worksite Description

This position is Hybrid eligible. This position is hybrid eligible; however, we require the first 90 days to be 100% on-site. After that period, hybrid eligibility will be evaluated based on individual performance.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

  •  Requires a bachelor's degree and three to four years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in business or supply chain management.
  • Three to four years of contracting concepts and procurement.
  • Ability to gather and prepare detailed specifications for procurement of goods/services.
  • Ability to read and comprehend legal contracting language; University, Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR) policies, and procedures and state statutes, technical jargon in specifications and contracts.
  • Ability to communicate verbally and in writing detailed reports of findings and recommendations.
  • Experience in using technology tools and software (i.e. Adobe, digital signature tools)
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office and data analytic products.
  • Background in state and university purchasing policies and procedures.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
  • Contact Information for three (3) professional references 

Application Window

Applications close on: January 15, 2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$ 53,581.00 - $69,633.00

 

 

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well-being and work-life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visit our benefits overview page.

Work Authorization: 

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

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Remote and Hybrid work options:

Some positions are eligible for remote or hybrid working arrangements.  An employee who is working in a remote or hybrid capacity for K-State must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements. Remote and hybrid work arrangements are not available for anyone who resides in the state of Idaho.

Background Screening Statement:

Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.

Interview Preferences:

Kansas State University honors interview preferences for qualified applicants who are veterans or individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, submit all required application materials, and submit required preference documentation by the closing date on the job advertisement will be granted a first-level interview.

The disability and veteran interview preferences do not apply to student employment positions, temporary positions, athletics positions, academic and administrative department heads*, positions that require licensure as a physician, and positions that require that the employee be admitted to practice law in Kansas.

*Heads of Departments refers to any individual holding a primary leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction, management and operational oversight of a recognized academic or administrative unit within the university.

To learn more about interview preferences at K-State, please visit our interview preferences page.