Purchasing specialist Jobs in Oklahoma City, OK

Senior Purchasing/Procurement Manager

Agency: 978 OKLAHOMA TURNPIKE AUTHORITY

Supervisory Organization: Controller AdministrationNeal A McCaleb Transportation Building

Job Type: Regular, Full time

Compensation: $47.35 per hour ($98,500 annually)

Position Overview: This is a full-time, in-office position located in Oklahoma City, OK. The Senior Purchasing/Procurement Manager oversees the agency's procurement operations, ensuring all purchasing activities comply with the Oklahoma Central Purchasing Act and applicable policies. This role leads the full procurement lifecycle, supervises staff, manages competitive solicitations (RFQ, ITB, RFP), and partners with internal stakeholders to support efficient and effective purchasing.

The position also focuses on developing processes, training staff, maintaining vendor relationships, and driving continuous improvement to support the agency's operational goals.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the full procurement lifecycle, including requisition review, sourcing strategy, solicitation development, evaluation, and award
• Oversee competitive bidding processes (RFQ, ITB, RFP) in accordance with Oklahoma statutes and agency policy and thresholds
• Supervise procurement staff and provide guidance on policies, procedures, and best practices
• Interpret and apply the Oklahoma Central Purchasing Act and related administrative rules
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for procurement functions
• Train staff and end-users on procurement processes and system usage (e.g., ERP systems like Oracle Fusion)
• Leverage statewide and cooperative contracts when appropriate to maximize efficiency
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with vendors, contractors, and service providers
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to define scope of work, specifications, and evaluation criteria
• Resolve vendor performance issues, disputes, and contract discrepancies
• Train and guide internal stakeholders on procurement processes to improve efficiency and reduce rework
• Identify process gaps and implement improvements to reduce delays in procurement cycles that could impact operations
• Foster a culture of collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement across divisions
• Promote a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and compliance
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Physical Demands and Work Environment: This position works in a comfortable office setting with a computer for a large percentage of the workday. The noise level in the work environment is usually mild.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education and experience requirements consist of a bachelor's degree (preferably in Business Administration, Public Administration, Finance, or related field) plus four years of professional experience in purchasing/procurement, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, including two years in a supervisory capacity.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certified Procurement Officer (CPO) II. Candidates who do not currently hold the certification must obtain it within the timeframe established by the Agency.
• Demonstrated experience with competitive bidding processes and contract management
• Strong knowledge of the Oklahoma Central Purchasing Act and OMES procurement procedures
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Oracle Fusion, PeopleSoft, or similar)
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and time management skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with team members, leadership and external stakeholders.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Demonstrated professionalism, sound judgment, and common sense in decision-making.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities required to perform duties assigned at this level include knowledge of accounting principles and practices; of business and public administration; of supply and procurement laws and regulations; of personnel management practices; of managerial functions and techniques; and of the principles and techniques of supervision. Ability is required to maintain and report financial data; to direct and supervise the work of others; to communicate effectively; and to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.

Benefits Highlights:

OTA is proud to provide a comprehensive benefits package designed to support eligible employees and their eligible dependents:

Generous Annual Benefit Allowance: Up to $21,934 to help cover insurance premiums for employees and their families.

Comprehensive Insurance Plans: A variety of options with no exclusions for pre-existing conditions.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Pre-tax savings for healthcare and dependent care expenses.

Retirement Savings Plans:

• Pathfinder Defined Contribution Plan: Employer matches 6% of a minimum 4.5% employee contribution (up to 7% if the employee contributes 7%).
• OPERS Defined Benefit Plan: Available for reenrollment to employees enrolled prior to November 1, 2015.

Paid Leave:

• 15 days annually during the first 15 years of service.
• 18 days annually for 510 years of service.
• 20 days annually for 1020 years of service.
• 25 days annually for over 20 years of service.
• Sick leave: Accrued at 15 days per year.
• Paid Maternity leave for eligible employees.

Holidays: Eleven paid holidays annually.

Employee Discounts: Special rates with various vendors and companies.

Longevity Payment: Monetary rewards beginning at two years of service to recognize dedicated tenure.

Thrive: Empower Oklahoma State employees to improve & enhance their well-being.

OTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities may be provided upon request.

Equal Opportunity Employment: The State of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of genetic information, race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, or disability.