Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants .
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Penn State Office of Central Procurement team is searching for a Procurement Agent. Central Procurement has a vision to develop and execute sound business and cost-effective Purchasing solutions to enable the teaching, research, and service mission of the University.
The Pennsylvania State University seeks a Procurement Agent for the Housing and Food Service (HFS) Procurement Office. This position will procure products and services for University Housing and Food Service operations and other supported food service operations in accordance with operational needs and University Policies.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively to analyze spending patterns and review historical usage to forecast and anticipate customer needs and leverage buying power, reduce costs, and ensure the needs of all operations are met. The position actively negotiates with suppliers and establishes vendor partnerships and agreements. This position also maintains and manages inventory levels within the HFS warehouse for assigned commodities.
The Procurement Agent:
- Prepares procurement documentation, including quotes and agreements, required to support and approve purchase orders within designated authority limits
- Reviews and processes annual contracts for food related supplies and services
- Ensures the proper flow of goods and services to maintain and support Housing and Food Service and other supported facilities
- Researches, identifies, evaluates, and monitors vendor relationships and performance in the best interest of the University
- Monitors order status to ensure timely deliveries
- Resolves discrepancies related to orders, invoices, or shipments
- Conducts new product and specification research, including maintenance of current specifications
- Forecasts needs and maintains inventory of assigned commodities
- Ensures procurement activities comply with University policies and regulations, maintain accurate records including contracts and supplier documentation, and support audit and reporting requirements
Experience and skills required to be successful in this role:
- Appropriate negotiating skills to achieve optimum price, delivery terms, payment terms, and purchase order terms and deliver best value solutions to the University
- Forecasting and Inventory Management
- A high degree of organization and problem-solving skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
- Experience in the Food Service industry preferred
- Sound principles of customer satisfaction
This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree
3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $59,580.00 - $86,400.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page .
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.
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