Job Duties
The Office of Procurement Services at Virginia State University is seeking a detail-oriented and customer-focused Procurement Officer to support the university’s mission through efficient, transparent, and compliant purchasing of goods and services. This position plays a vital role in advancing Virginia State University’s commitment to operational excellence, fiscal responsibility, and small business, supporting the vision of being “Greater in Procurement.” The Procurement Officer is responsible for executing small purchase procurements, assisting with solicitation development, and ensuring full adherence to the Virginia Public Procurement Act (VPPA), Agency Procurement and Surplus Property Manual (APSPM), and the VSU Procurement Manual.
The incumbent will process requisitions, solicitations, and purchase orders in eVA in accordance with state and university procurement policies; assist with informal competitive solicitations, vendor selections; utilize of cooperative agreements, and existing contracts to achieve cost savings and efficiency. The Procurement Officer will support campus departments in developing specifications, planning purchases, and selecting the proper method of procurement, while maintaining accurate records and documentation to ensure compliance. The position also promotes Small, Women-owned, and Minority-owned (SWaM) business participation, provides guidance and training to faculty and staff on procurement best practices and eVA usage, and delivers exceptional customer service to internal and external stakeholders while fostering positive vendor and departmental relationships.
The successful candidate will possess strong knowledge of the VPPA, APSPM, CAPP Manual, and other applicable state procurement laws governing higher education. The role requires an understanding of eVA, Banner, and other financial systems; the ability to analyze purchasing trends and recommend cost-saving measures; and excellent written, verbal, organizational, analytical, and negotiation skills. Working knowledge and experience with small purchase charge card. Considerable knowledge and experience with spreadsheets and database software, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint). Candidates must demonstrate the ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, and maintain a commitment to ethical procurement practices, confidentiality, and professionalism.
Minimum Qualifications
A minimum of an associate’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is required, with a bachelor’s degree preferred. Applicants must possess a Virginia Contracting Associate (VCA).
Additional Considerations
Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Preferred experience working with electronic Virginia (eVA) or progressive procurement experience.
Preferred recognized purchasing certification in Virginia Contracting Associate (VCA) or Virginia Contracting Officer (VCO) or must be able to obtain certification within one year of hire date.
Public procurement experience preferably in higher education or government
Special Instructions
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Virginia State University is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all persons and applicants, without regard to age, color, disability, gender, national origin, political affiliation, genetic information, race, religion, sexual orientation, sex (including pregnancy) or veteran status. VSU encourages and invites minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply.
AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni are encouraged to apply.
HOW TO APPLY:
Virginia State University only accepts applications for this position through the on-line state Recruitment Management System (PageUp). Faxed, e-mailed, and mailed applications and/or attachments will not be accepted. The application must be detailed and fully completed. All employment and periods of unemployment (if applicable) must be listed within the application; either on an attached resume, or manually listed in the “Relevant Work History” section. Each application is reviewed for documentation that shows the applicant meets the minimum and preferred qualifications stated in the job announcement. The decision to interview an applicant is based on the information provided on the application, therefore, it is essential to fully complete each section of the application and provide descriptive information. Submitting an incomplete state application, or a state application lacking in detail, may result in your non-selection. This website will provide a confirmation of receipt when the application is submitted for consideration.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Interested persons must attach a cover letter and a current resume/c.v to the online application. Official transcripts will be required at the time of employment.
The selected candidate will be subject to an extensive and complete background check, which may include fingerprinting. The candidate may be required to complete a Statement of Economic Interest as a condition of employment, if applicable.
Employment-based visa sponsorship at Virginia State University (VSU) is not guaranteed and will be evaluated carefully on a case-by-case basis. Federal law does not require employers to provide immigration sponsorship, and VSU is not obligated to offer it. Employment at VSU does not permit an individual to work in the United States unless the appropriate employment authorization has been obtained and verified in accordance with federal immigration compliance requirements.
Commonwealth’s Alternative Hiring Process:
In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their Certificate of Disability (COD) provided by a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor within the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS). Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS to get their Certificate of Disability.