ASSOCIATE SPECIALIST - SPECIALIST - Electronics Group - Purchasing Department at Southwest Research Institute

Who We Are: The Electronics Group within the Purchasing Department is responsible for negotiating and awarding purchase orders for IT hardware, software, electronic components, instrumentation, and related items to support the Institute and its clients (both government and commercial) throughout all phases of the procurement process. Objectives of this Role: Solicits, negotiates, awards, documents and administers purchase orders to SwRI vendors to support SwRI Overhead and SwRI (Government and Commercial) projects, in accordance with SwRI General Purchase Order Terms and Conditions. Conducts market research and cost/price analysis to ensure the best source and a fair and reasonable price. Provides written documentation to support the purchases based on purchasing operation policies and procedures. Assists with the management of vendor performance, quality assurance and successful completion of contracted tasks. Resolves issues as they occur and perform other duties as necessary in accordance with SwRI Purchasing Policies and Procedures, accounting policies, FAR/DFARS and other federal regulations, Desktop guides and on the job training. Daily and Monthly Responsibilities: Thoroughly reviews purchase requisitions to ensure accuracy and completeness including proper charge numbers and approvals, quality assurance, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) requirements, etc. Issues requests for proposals as needed, ensuring compliance with Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) business practices and Desktop Guide protocols. Conduct supplier sourcing as required, establish new vendor relationships, and maintain accurate vendor contact information. Expedite orders to ensure timely delivery. Receive, review, and analyze vendor proposals, working with suppliers to obtain necessary support documentation to show fair and reasonable pricing. Engage with vendors to discuss quality assurance requirements, negotiate terms and conditions, pricing, and delivery schedules. Organize and produce all documentation to support the purchases in accordance with Purchasing OPP and/or FAR/DFARS and other applicable federal regulations. Requirements: Requires a Bachelors degree in Business or related fields with related experience 0-5 years: Experience with administering and justifying the price of Purchase Orders under government contracts; conducting detailed market research and performing comprehensive price or cost analysis, and meticulously documenting the results. Possess strong interpersonal and communication skills. Direct experience in Purchasing is preferred. Demonstrates excellent organizational skills alongside strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. Must exhibit a high level of motivation, meticulous attention to detail, and an energetic approach to job responsibilities. A valid/clear driver's license is required.