Purchasing Agent

Position Title:

Compensation:

Department:

About this opportunity:

What you'll do and what you'll bring:

Position Function:Procure supplies, equipment, and services in a timely manner from reliable sources while maximizing value and meeting the quality standards of the university; provide assistance in the public works process while adhering to the federal, state, local, and university laws and regulations.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Negotiate and monitor addition of, and existing, e-procurement suppliers in JAGGAER purchasing software.

Obtain supplies, equipment and services; review, alter (if necessary) and approve purchase orders derived from requisitions; determine price, delivery, shipping, payment terms of supplies and equipment services to be ordered.

Generate and award Request for Proposal (RFP) when assigned; manage and utilize RFP set by contract.

Share responsibilities in public works process by attending bid openings, recording bids, and keeping abreast with current projects to enable the ability to substitute for Purchasing Coordinator when absent.

Analyze purchasing data and recommend action to improve efficiency and value in the purchasing process up to and including the addition, removal or consolidation of showcase suppliers.

Communicate with vendor representatives, faculty, and staff; negotiate; mediate disputes between university and vendors to resolve discrepancies; make adjustments and expedite.

Represent the university at public and association conferences; keep abreast of constantly changing laws, markets, and technology through readings and attending trade shows, seminars, and professional meetings.

Act as a point of solution for departments with purchasing concerns and issues; recommend steps to successfully accomplish desired result.

Develop and maintain sources of supply to generate a competitive market and to provide uninterrupted supply for the university.

Develop and write general specifications; approve detailed specifications and contracts; amend as necessary to insure compliance with university bidding procedure.

Maintain accurate records and controls; document transactions to provide an audit trail and ensure integrity.

Provide support in the development of procedures in relation to certain university, commodity standardization; recommend, when appropriate, changes in policies, procedures and products as they relate to the procurement function.

Assist with special projects.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Over two years procurement of goods and services experience.

• Background in Banner and/or SciQuest e-procurement software, catalog purchasing, and supplier management; familiarity of local, state, and federal laws as they apply to university procurement and public works.

Additional Preferred Qualifications:

• Graduate study in technology management or related field.

• Additional years of related experience. Experience in a higher educational environment.

• General knowledge in contract management and public relations techniques.

How to apply:

Supporting Documents Upload Instructions:

Please follow upload instructions to attach all of the required supporting documents listed below. Be sure to share all skills and experience that can be related to this position.

Important: Do not use the Autofill feature when uploading your resume.

Required Document:

1. Resume

Optional Document (Recommended for Best Consideration):

2. Cover Letter detailing your qualifications for the position.

Applications must be submitted by 12:01 AM on April 1, 2026.

What we offer:

At Ball State University, we understand the importance of balancing professional responsibilities with personal well-being. That's why we offer paid 24 vacation days, 12 sick days and 10 holidays a year. Plus, our paid parental leave (6 weeks) is there for life's most significant moments. We offer affordable health and dental insurance, robust long-term disability and life insurance plans, as well a range of retirement benefits to provide financial security to you and your family. These benefits ensure that you can focus on your work and personal growth without worrying about the unexpected.

When you work for us, you are family. And to show our support of your family, we will cover 90 percent of your child's (or children's) undergraduate college tuition at Ball State. We do the same for you. In fact, we'll cover 100 percent of the tuition costs for you to earn your undergraduate degree and 80 percent of your graduate tuition. This offer is good from the very first day you start. It's just one way we do our part to uplift you.

Let's fly together toward a secure and prosperous tomorrow.

Curious about our excellent benefits package?

We have developed a calculator that shows you the value of our core benefits. Select the Total Compensation Calculator - Professional and download the spreadsheet. If you are applying for a 10-month position or one with Burris or Indiana Academy, please select the corresponding calculator.