Technical Purchasing Agent

Position Description: Technical Purchasing Agent

Position Title: Technical Purchasing Agent

Department: Procurement

Reports To: Procurement Manager or Director of Procurement

Location: HQ Tysons – full time at office

Job Summary: The Technical Purchasing Agent is responsible for procuring technical equipment, materials, and services necessary for the organization's operations. This role involves defining technical requirements, sourcing, and qualifying suppliers, creating, and managing Requests for Proposals (RFP) or Requests for Quotations (RFQ), negotiating terms and agreements, monitoring supplier performance, closing purchases, and evaluating supplier performance.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Defining Requirements:

Collaborate with technical teams to understand and document the technical specifications and requirements for equipment, materials, and services.

Ensure all requirements are clearly defined, accurate, and comprehensive.

2. Sourcing Suppliers:

Identify and evaluate potential suppliers based on technical capability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

Maintain a database of qualified suppliers and keep it up to date with relevant information.

3. Qualifying Suppliers:

Conduct thorough assessments of potential suppliers, including capability, quality control, and compliance with industry standards.

Perform site visits and audits, as necessary.

4. Creating RFPs/RFQs:

Develop and issue detailed RFPs or RFQs to qualified suppliers.

Ensure that all RFPs/RFQs include clear specifications, deadlines, and evaluation criteria.

5. Negotiating:

Engage in negotiations with suppliers to secure the best possible terms, including pricing, delivery schedules, and payment terms.

Work to establish long-term relationships and strategic partnerships with key suppliers.

6. Agreement Management:

Draft, review, and manage contracts and agreements with suppliers.

Ensure that all agreements comply with company policies and legal requirements.

7. Monitoring:

Track the progress of orders and deliveries to ensure timely and accurate fulfillment.

Address and resolve any issues or discrepancies that arise during the procurement process.

8. Closing:

Verify that all purchased goods and services meet specified requirements before final acceptance.

Ensure that all necessary documentation is completed and filed appropriately.

9. Rating and Evaluation:

Conduct regular performance evaluations of suppliers based on criteria such as quality, delivery, and cost.

Maintain records of supplier performance and provide feedback to suppliers to encourage continuous improvement.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree Engineering, or a related field.

Read and understand drawings, schematics, and specifications.

Some experience with buying preferably within a technical or industrial setting.

Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.

Ability to understand and interpret technical specifications and requirements.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Work Environment:

Office environment with site visits to suppliers, jobsite trailers, and program offices.

May require travel to meet with suppliers and attend industry events.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to sit for extended periods.

Occasional lifting of materials and equipment up to 25 pounds.

Competencies:

Technical Acumen: Understanding of the technical aspects of the products and services being procured.

Negotiation Skills: Ability to negotiate favorable terms and conditions with suppliers.

Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy and thoroughness in all procurement activities.

Communication: Effective verbal and written communication skills.

Problem-Solving: Ability to address and resolve issues promptly and effectively.

Time Management: Efficiently managing time to handle multiple priorities.