Purchasing Services Administrator

Make a Difference with DHSS

Our mission at the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) is to improve the quality of life of Delaware citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. We prioritize personal and family independence by assisting individuals and families in a variety of life areas.

We offer numerous career opportunities and are dedicated to attracting and retaining highly talented individuals who are ready to make a difference in their community today. DHSS is a great place to kick-start your profession.

For more information, please visit https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/ today!

The incumbent will be responsible for overseeing the coordination of the procurement of goods and services and professional services, which includes writing and reviewing bid specifications, overseeing the facilitation of Pre-Bid Meetings, overseeing the bid opening process, the recommendation of contract awards, writing and reviewing contracts. Contacts include attorneys, vendors, Department users and agency personnel to obtain or clarify information, resolve product or service complaints, and to evaluate new and improved products and/or services.

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class.  Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Reviews requisitions and purchase orders for completeness and accuracy; contacts user to obtain additional information as required.
• Determines whether items to be purchased are on contract, require either formal or informal bidding or may be obtained by phone or from a catalog.
• Writes specifications for bids, has them advertised, printed and sent to appropriate vendors; evaluates bids received for conformity to bid specifications and compliance with governing laws, rules and regulations; tabulates and submits a recommendation of award.
• Ensures prompt and complete deliveries; investigates problems and complaints from vendors (users) concerning late delivery, price discrepancies, poor quality or defective merchandise; initiates change orders and cancellations as required. 
• Interviews vendor representatives for new and improved products, services and marketing conditions.
• Maintains files on open purchase orders and correspondence, vendor lists, product catalogs and contract awards.
• Attends meetings and seminars concerned with specification revisions, standardization and product evaluation.
• May supervise clerical personnel.

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Purchasing Services Administrator
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

1. Three years experience in procurement services which includes purchasing goods and services in accordance with procurement procedures and contract specifications.
2. Three years experience in interpreting laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures.
3. Knowledge of developing policies or procedures.
4. Knowledge of staff supervision acquired through course work, academic training, training provided through an employer, or performing as a lead worker overseeing the work of others; OR supervising staff which may include planning, assigning, reviewing, and evaluating the work of others; OR supervising through subordinate supervisors a group of professional, technical, and clerical employees.

The State of Delaware recognizes the value of telework and flexible working schedules. This position is eligible for Telework according to the State of Delaware’s Alternative Work Arrangement Policy. More information will be shared at the time of interview.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The State of Delaware participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. For more information refer to our Job Seeker Resources.

DHSS does not provide employment-based sponsorship.

All new hires are required to report to the Statewide New Employee Orientation (SNEO) on their first day of employment. Sessions are held at designated locations in Kent or New Castle County.

To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/

The application and supplemental questionnaire are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position.  It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and the supplemental questionnaire to include dates of employment, job title and job duties.  For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content.   Narrative information supplied in response to the questions must be supported by the information supplied on the application including your employment, education and training history as it relates to the job requirements.

Once you have submitted your application on-line, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email.  Please keep your contact information current.  You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the “My Applications” tab at StateJobs.Delaware.gov.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.  TDD users may request an auxiliary aid or service by calling (800) 232-5470 or by visiting delawarerelay.com.  You may also call (302) 739-5458 or email DHR_ADAConcerns@delaware.gov for additional applicant services support.

The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.