Florida Polytechnic University Hiring for Procurement Agent/Buyer at Florida Polytechnic University South at Polk State College Full Time

Make a difference at one of Florida’s premier institutions for education in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Florida Polytechnic University, ranked the No. 1 public college in the region by U.S. News and World Report, offers a unique working environment that encourages faculty and staff to be part of a culture that prizes collaboration, innovation, and the willingness to go above and beyond to ensure our students and University succeed. Florida Poly offers a small campus academic environment where students form connections with their faculty and peers as they pursue high-value degrees in engineering and applied sciences. The University is equipped with cutting-edge facilities and equipment and two award-winning, architecturally distinct academic buildings. Its evolving curriculum, designed to meet the needs of industry and provide a life-long educational foundation for students, has helped the institution grow in prominence since its opening in 2014. Florida Poly’s deliberately small classes, affordability, and outstanding graduate outcomes have helped it earn recognitions such as being named a top value school, in the top 25 nationally for affordability, and in the top five best universities in the South for tech students. Accredited by ABET and SACSCOC, Florida Poly is educating some of the brightest minds in Florida and attracting standout talent from across the nation. JOB TITLEProcurement Agent/BuyerJOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARYThe Procurement Agent/Buyer at Florida Polytechnic University plays a critical role in managing and overseeing the purchase of goods and services essential for the university’s daily operations and long-term success. This position is responsible for the strategic sourcing of high-quality and cost-effective supplies, negotiating with suppliers, and ensuring the timely delivery of products and services. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in procurement processes, contract management, and supplier relationship management.JOB DESCRIPTION

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement procurement strategies that align with the university’s objectives.

• Conduct market research to identify potential suppliers and evaluate their offerings.

• Negotiate contracts with suppliers to secure advantageous terms.

• Oversee the procurement process from requisition to delivery, ensuring compliance with university policies and regulatory requirements.

• Manage supplier relationships, including performance evaluation and conflict resolution.

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand their procurement needs and specifications.

• Maintain accurate procurement records and prepare reports on procurement activity.

• Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements within the procurement function.

• Ensure ethical procurement practices and adherence to sustainability goals.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs):

• Proficient in procurement principles, practices, and methods.

• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with vendors and internal stakeholders.

• Ability to analyze data and market trends to inform procurement decisions.

• Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations related to procurement and contracts.

• Proficiency in procurement software and systems.

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Commitment to ethical procurement practices and sustainability.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or related field.

• At least one (1) year of experience in procurement or purchasing within a complex organization.

• Experience in higher education procurement is preferred but not required.

• Demonstrated understanding of procurement processes, contract law, and supplier management.

• Must have legal authorization to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship.

• Florida Polytechnic University is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

REQUIRED LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, AND/OR OTHER SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS OF LAW:

• Must possess a valid driver’s license.

• This position requires a criminal background check, which may include a Level II screening as required by Florida Statute §435.04.

• This position is subject to federal and state privacy regulations.

NORMAL WORK SCHEDULE: This position is salary exempt. The normal work schedule is Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., however, occasional overtime (weekends and evenings) may be required. Travel between campuses may be required.

TARGET HIRING SALARY: $50,000 – $55,000

APPLICATION DEADLINE DATE: The position is open until filled.

APPLICATION PROCESS: In addition to completing the online application, all Applicants are required to upload the following as an attachment to the application (preferably in PDF format):

• Cover Letter

• Resume

• List of three (3) professional references (names and contact information)

DIVERSITY STATEMENT:

Florida Polytechnic University is an equal opportunity/equal access institution. It is the policy of the Board of Trustees to provide equal opportunity for employment and educational opportunities to all (including applicants for employment, employees, applicants for admission, students, and others affiliated with the University) without regard to race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status or genetic information.

Employment is contingent upon eligibility to work in the US. An appointment is not final until proof is provided.

FLORIDA POLY BENEFITS INFORMATIONFlorida Poly qualified employees have the opportunity to take advantage of a variety of health benefits (through the State of Florida) to help meet their specific needs, as well as the needs of their family. This comprehensive coverage includes flexible spending accounts, medical and life insurance, and worker’s compensation.Health benefits are administered through People First, on behalf of the State of Florida, as pre-tax insurance plans. People First handles all new hire enrollments, coverage changes, premium administration, and dependent eligibility. Their Service Center is staffed Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m.–6 p.m. EST, at 1-866-663-4735.RETIREMENTFlorida Poly offers great options for retirement. From the required selection of a state plan to additional voluntary retirement plans, our employees have many opportunities to save and prepare for their future. Click here for more information. FLORIDA POLY BENEFITS

• Perks and Discounts
• Annual Leave
  • To help promote work-life balance, Florida Poly provides a generous leave program, which includes paid time off and paid holidays. Qualified employees may accrue 22 days of annual leave. In addition, the University observes the holidays listed in our University Holidays policy FPU-1.008.
• Sick Leave
  • Qualified employees may also accrue 12 days of annual sick leave and participate in our Sick Pool Program.
• Employee Assistant Program (EAP)

EXPLORE LAKELAND FLORIDAConveniently located along I-4 between Tampa and Orlando, Lakeland is home to Florida Polytechnic University and many other businesses and attractions. Click here to explore Lakeland, Florida.SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING ATTACHMENTS: Required attachments are listed on each posting. Please be sure to attach all required documents in the Resume/CV field before continuing through the application. Once your application has been submitted, no changes may be made and additional attachments will not be considered. An unofficial copy of the degree/transcript is acceptable during the application process. For positions requiring a degree, the official transcripts are required upon hire. Foreign Transcript: Transcripts issued outside of the United States require a equivalency statement from a certified transcript evaluation service verifying the degree equivalency to that of an accredited institution within the USA. This report must be attached with the application and submitted by the application deadline. All document(s) must be received on or before the closing date of the job announcements. This position requires a background check, which may include a level II screening as required by the Florida Statute §435.04.