The Langley School District is situated on the traditional unceded territories of the Matsqui, Kwantlen, Katzie, and Semiahmoo First Nations. At Langley School District, we prioritize student success through a holistic approach to education, valuing both academic achievement and personal growth. Our dedicated team of educators, support staff, and administrators work collaboratively to create dynamic learning experiences that inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity.
Joining our team means becoming part of a supportive community that celebrates diversity, innovation, and collaboration. Whether you're a seasoned educator or embarking on your journey in the field of education, Langley School District offers ample opportunities for professional growth and development.
Collaboration is key in this role, as you work closely with District Administrators and Managers to align procurement efforts with organizational goals. Building and maintaining positive vendor relationships is essential, as you will engage with different teams to secure timely deliveries and maintain service levels. From reviewing requisitions to negotiating prices and terms, you will ensure adherence to purchasing policies while optimizing value for the District.
Additionally, you'll play a pivotal role in process improvement initiatives within the Purchasing Department. Visiting schools and facilities enables effective communication with customers, allowing you to tailor procurement strategies to meet evolving needs and foster ongoing partnerships with suppliers.
POSTING DETAILS
- Position - Senior Buyer
- Start Date - As soon as possible
- Schedule - Full time (35 hours/week)
- Location - School Board Office
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Purchases supplies, capital equipment and services for all District locations.
- Coordinates and assists with the competitive bidding process for products/services in accordance with established tender procedures, specifications and bid terms and conditions, prepares bid evaluation summaries.
- Liaises with District Administrators and Managers for planning or acquisition of materials and methods of procurement.
- Meets and maintains positive vendor relations with Sales Managers, representatives of vendors who provide goods or services to the District and with all levels of government agencies.
- Ensures the critical timing and delivery of supplies and equipment for schools and facilities to help maintain their service levels and provide products, equipment and services.
- Assists with the yearly planning and scheduling for system and inventory contracts, and to meet with customers and vendors to plan product(s) and delivery.
- Performs purchasing duties and adheres to the District’s purchasing policies and procedures:
- review requisitions for adequate descriptions; research, analyze, and compile data regarding product information
- develop standardized lists of material, giving consideration to educational requirements, availability of service and compatibility with existing equipment.
- prepare and forward requests for quotations/requests for information to suppliers; evaluate quotations; recommend successful bidders; negotiate prices and terms; ensure all tax exemptions are taken and supply product information, prices, etc. as required
- Research and negotiate timely settlements of claims and invoice-related problems as required
- document all relevant information, negotiations and discussions regarding quotations, purchase orders, contracts, invoices, etc.
- Provides input to improve Purchasing Department processes.
- Visits schools/facilities on a scheduled or ‘as requested’ basis to accommodate effective communication between customers and purchasing as to needs, expertise and develop an ongoing liaison with schools, facilities and suppliers to develop product descriptions which provide greatest value to the district.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Grade 12 graduation supplemented by post-secondary courses in purchasing fundamentals and supply chain management.
- Five years related experience purchasing various types of industrial goods, capital equipment and services using a competitive bid process, contract development and administration, resolution of contract issues and vendor negotiations.
- Ability to communicate effectively using tact, discretion and diplomacy in contacts of a difficult or specialized nature.
- Good working knowledge of purchasing terms, laws of competitive bidding, best purchasing practices, contract law and some knowledge of risk management.
- Ability to interpret, analyze and use judgement in applying established methods and procedures.
- Working knowledge of electronic purchasing systems and software and use of internet as a research tool and competency using Microsoft Excel and Word.
- Valid BC Driver’s License and access to reliable transportation required for travel to District sites.
- Physical ability to perform the required duties.
For your application to be considered, all required documents must be included:
- Resume and cover letter
- Copies of any relevant post-secondary certificates/diplomas, showing courses in purchasing fundamentals and supply chain management.
- Email addresses for a minimum of three references (ideally, former supervisors from your most recent/relevant role)
- Scanned copy of your valid BC Driver’s license
- Clear driver’s abstract/history (can be obtained from ICBC)
- Proof of high school graduation (or completion of other post-secondary education)
PLEASE NOTE
- In accordance with the Criminal Record Review Act, successful applicants will be required to consent to a Criminal Record Check prior to employment.
- We thank you for your interest in the Langley School District; however, only those persons selected for interviews will be contacted.
