Buyer

The City of Richmond is committed to be the most appealing, livable, well-managed community in Canada, a goal that is only made possible by developing our most valuable asset – our people. This is a great opportunity to join our team and shape our community. The City of Richmond offers competitive pay programs, comprehensive benefits and attractive incentives. If you are looking to make a difference, and to share our vision “to be the most appealing, livable, and well-managed community in Canada”, then please apply.

Overview

This Buyer position is responsible for purchasing a variety of equipment, parts, supplies and services utilizing computerized systems and applying the principles of public sector procurement and knowledge of purchasing practices primarily for the City's Engineering and Public Works department, however, will also be required to support other departments at the City as needed.

Examples of key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Collaborate with internal clients to identify organizational needs and purchasing requirements, assist in the development of specifications, prepare and issue bid documents (e.g. Request for Quotation, Request for Proposals, etc.) and facilitate the procurement process in accordance with the City’s Procurement Policy and approved procedures.
• Review the client’s scope of work, specifications and requirements to ensure that prerequisites have been provided (e.g. budget approval, estimate, schedule, technical details etc.)
• Conduct supply market research to support sourcing recommendations to clients.
• Record and analyze bid results, and make recommendations to clients on the selection of suppliers based on facts and data resulting from the bid process.
• Finalize awards through preparation and issuance of purchase orders and contract documents.
• Process purchase requisitions and issues purchase orders. Maintains purchase orders and contracts to reflect changes to requirements.
• Manage the procurement lifecycle of projects in bids&tenders (the City's e Procurement platform) from creation to close out, including handling renewals, reviewing required submittal documents, and supplier evaluations.
• Provide guidance on purchasing-related matters and respond to internal and external inquiries.
• Support the City’s Purchasing Card Program and educate staff on the appropriate use of purchasing cards
• Post competitive bid opportunities and addendums on BC Bid and bids&tenders.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Awareness of public sector purchasing principles, policies and practices.
• Knowledge and skill in the use of computer applications including: Microsoft Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Teams, Outlook and People Soft Financials (or similar ERP system), and bids&tenders (or similar e Procurement platforms).
• Knowledge of contract law, commercial terms, and/or insurance.
• Capable of undertaking supplier/supply market research to assist the development of procurement and sourcing strategies.
• Skill in reviewing and analyzing bids according to established criteria and communicate recommendations based on tangible facts and data.
• Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrates strong critical thinking ability
• Ability to develop material and present to internal clients
• Ability to perform work independently, establish priorities and form/maintain excellent working relationships.
• Ability to demonstrate attention to detail, thoroughness and accuracy throughout the purchasing process.
• Ability to successfully pass a Police Information Check for the Financial Sector.

Qualifications and Experience:

A minimum of one year (30 credits) of related post-secondary coursework (ex: purchasing, business, accounting, etc.) supplemented by a minimum of two years of related purchasing experience, ideally within a municipal environment. An equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be considered. Registration or completion of the Supply Chain Canada courses is preferred.

Working Conditions:

This job is generally performed in an office environment.

Additional Information: