Purchasing: Contracts Specialist

The University of New Mexico, Office of the University Controller, also known as Financial Services, located on Main Campus is responsible for all central accounting functions for the University. It is the responsibility of the Controller's Office aka Financial Services to ensure compliance with all financial policies, rules, and regulations adopted by the University or imposed by external agencies, including state and federal audit requirements, following generally accepted accounting practices. Additionally, the Controller's Office oversees the maintenance of the official financial records of the University. Within Financial Services is The Purchasing Department that serves as the central purchasing authority for the University of New Mexico. The UNM Purchasing Department is seeking a dynamic and motivated Contract Specialist to join our team. This position will work with a team of Contracts Specialists who are buyers for several specific commodities and is responsible for all aspects of the procurement cycle, from sourcing to managing of contracts, in accordance with applicable federal, state and University rules and regulations. Examples of the goods and services this team currently handles are furniture, architecture, construction, building operations materials and supplies and services, and grounds equipment and services. The UNM Purchasing department procures upwards of $150M each year. Team members collaborate with their peers in financial services and procuring departments to ensure we meet their needs. Purchasing responsibilities for the team include but are not limited to: Reviews, approves, and processes purchasing requests such as purchase requisitions and small purchase orders for goods and services Lead departments through the procurement process to administer complex, integrated, high-value contractual arrangements and procurement proposals, e.g., request for proposals (RFP), etc. Assists in bid openings for competitive solicitations such requests for quotes, bids, and proposals Administer and maintain data information related to contractual arrangements for products and/or services for the University Analyze and approve or reject internal and/or contractor requests for deviations from contract specifications and delivery schedules Analyze price proposals, financial reports, and other data to determine reasonableness of prices; review and interpret contract provisions to achieve cost efficiencies and reductions where feasible Monitor existing contracts/contractor performance for compliance with terms and conditions Serve as a primary point of contact with contractors, vendors and UNM departments Represent the organization and the University to various institutional constituencies, as well as externally to corporations, funding agencies, government agencies, and other colleges and universities, as appropriate Other duties as assigned This position is on-site, M-F Salary range is estimated, and actual salary will be determined after consideration of the selected candidate's experience and qualifications.