Buyer (Finance)

Department: Comptroller
Position Control Number: 0113-007
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt; position is eligible for overtime
Safety Sensitive Designation: This position is not designated as safety-sensitive.
Random Drug/Alcohol Test: No
Opening Date: September 19, 2025
Closing Date: September 28, 2025 at 11:59 PM

This job description should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the essential functions and minimum qualifications of this job. The incumbent(s) may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this job description. Nothing in this job description restricts managements right to assign or reassign job-related responsibilities and tasks to this job at any time. Certain functions are understood to be essential; these include, but are not limited to, attendance, getting along with others, working a full shift, and dealing with and working under stress. Any essential function of this class will be evaluated as necessary should an incumbent/applicant be unable to perform the function or requirement due to a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Reasonable accommodation for the specific disability will be made for the incumbent/applicant only to the extent medically and reasonably feasible.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

JOB SUMMARY:Responsible for receipt and evaluation of purchase requests, preparation of formal bid requests, and ensuring the purchase of quality goods and supplies at the lowest available price; prepares and maintains an accurate accounting of Pulaski Countys fixed asset inventory.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Reviews purchase requests for compliance with purchasing laws and policies; determines appropriate procedure based on the estimated cost of purchase; ensures Quorum Court approval for specific capital outlay items. Compiles formal bid packages including the writing of bid specifications, selection of bidder list, and preparation of special instructions necessary to meet legal requirements. Researches products to determine appropriate specifications when needed and available vendors for desired products. Contacts vendors to obtain informal telephone or written quotes for purchases when appropriate. Writes and places legal advertisements. Opens and records bids presented at formal bid openings; forwards copies to the appropriate department. Ensures bonding and liability insurance is provided by the vendor within construction bids. Evaluates bids for compliance with regulations and specifications; ensures vendors are current in payment of all applicable taxes; reviews vendors selection submitted by department for effective selection. Obtains selection factor ratings from departments. Maintains log of all actions taken during bid process including vendors contacted, method of contact, and all other related actions. Prepares contracts for purchases and services ensuring compliance with County Purchasing Policy and applicable State and Federal law; obtains all necessary signatures. Places orders for materials once purchase award has been made; processes change orders for construction project purchasing. Monitors contracts for upcoming expirations; notifies departments on a timely basis when contracts must be re-bid; negotiates renewals as needed. Organizes and maintains annual contract files, closed bid packages, product information library, and other related information. Prepares and maintains the fixed asset inventory records for all departments; assigns inventory control numbers to appropriate County capital equipment inventory; enters equipment information into the fixed asset tracking system database; maintains and updates the system information as required. Coordinates storage and sale of surplus equipment and supplies by online or local auction. Prepares and distributes the annual inventory listing for verification by Elected Officials and Department Directors; adjusts the equipment database after the verification is reconciled. Compiles reports of fixed assets for Legislative Auditors and the Assistant Comptroller. Implements changes and updates to the inventory recordkeeping system as needed. Identifies appropriate depreciation schedule for all fixed assets; enters descriptions, values, funding, and schedules into the fixed asset inventory system.

SECONDARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Assigns a purchase order number and logs into the computer database. Prepares Requests for Proposals to obtain vendor-prepared project or service options. Explains purchasing policies and procedures to other County departments and vendors as required. Orders items available on State and National contracts. Monitors service and products provided by vendors; recommends suspension from vendor list to Assistant Comptroller when appropriate. Contacts new vendors to establish interest in making competitive bids on goods and/or services. Enters vendors into the database in the designated supplier areas. Maintains records and prepares various reports reflecting purchase information. Assists County departments develop and implementing an internal inventory tracking system for assets not included in countywide fixed asset inventory records; provides training as needed. Conducts quarterly inventory audits for departments as needed. Conducts training in inventory maintenance procedures for departmental personnel. Makes recommendations for procedural changes to improve the accuracy of inventory records. Installs periodic software updates provided by the State for the computerized inventory system. Conducts training for vendors and user departments as needed. Performs other related duties as required.

PERSONNEL SUPERVISED: None

WORKING CONDITIONS: Duties are performed primarily in a smoking-restricted office environment. Occasional travel to other County departments is required for capital equipment tagging or inventory auditing.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:

Considerable knowledge of accepted purchasing principles, practices, and procedures.Considerable knowledge of Federal, State, and County legal requirements for government purchasing and asset and materials management.Considerable knowledge of purchasing practices promoting environmentally sound material selection.Considerable knowledge of markets, market prices, and availability of products.Considerable knowledge of the utilization of computerized inventory control systems.Good knowledge of business contracts.Good knowledge of the procedures used in the calculation of asset depreciation.Ability to maintain complex record-keeping systems.Ability to perform mathematical calculations accurately.Ability to obtain all necessary information pertinent to the purchase and delivery of materials, supplies, equipment, and services.Ability to evaluate and assess purchasing specifications to ensure quality products and timely delivery.Ability to prepare numerical and informational reports.Ability to communicate effectively in writing.Ability to attend work regularly and reliably.Skill in the use of a computer.Skill in the use of a calculator.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Visual acuity is necessary for use of the computer screen and to review purchasing documents.Digital dexterity is needed for keyboard and calculator operation.Ability to communicate orally, both individually and in groups.Ability to lift and carry loads up to 20 pounds.Ability to bend and kneel to apply identification tags to equipment.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Completion of college-level or business school coursework in Purchasing, Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field; considerable work experience with purchasing or a related area; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities.