Buyer I (Administrative Assistant)

Department Overview:

***Available for Remote/Hybrid Work***
OHSU is Oregon’s only public academic health center. We are a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and southwest Washington. We are an institution of higher learning, with schools of medicine, nursing, pharmacy, dentistry and public health – and with a network of campuses and partners throughout Oregon. We are a national research hub, with thousands of scientists developing lifesaving therapies and deeper understanding. We are a statewide economic engine and Portland’s largest employer. And as a public organization, we provide services for the most vulnerable Oregonians, and outreach to improve health in communities across the state.
As the Buyer 1 you will be accountable for the acquisition of requested products, equipment, and services for assigned areas in an efficient and cost-effective manner. You will work and communicate directly with all levels of OHSU, and suppliers. You are responsible for supporting the purchasing activity across the OHSU system and is expected to function with minimal supervision.
Function/Duties of Position:

• Acquisition of requested items (PO): Review accuracy of requisitioned orders and place with suppliers in a timely manner with a working knowledge of contracts, UNSPSC, pricing, terms and conditions, and product and equipment standards. This may require minimal negotiation of pricing, terms and conditions for non-contracted items. Handles all stat/emergency orders including communication of delivery info to requesting personnel. Ensure that customer needs are met in a timely manner including communication with requestors and suppliers. In a timely and effective manner, works confirmations and backorders and coordinates problem resolution with requestor.
• Manage a variety of incoming Procurement calls. This requires a basic understanding of all OHSU Procurement functions including Purchasing, Sourcing, and Contract Management.
• Identifies areas for reducing purchase order costs and communicates to Purchasing Supervisor.
• Knowledgeable in assigned categories and provides direction to customers on contracted items and the appropriate purchasing methods.
• Ensures that all applicable reports are reviewed and problems are expedited/solved to meet delivery expectations. Responsible for keeping on target with all established Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s). Responsible for the research of all pricing discrepancies and escalation to Buyer II and III as necessary. This includes working closely with Accounts Payable to ensure invoice processing is complete.
• Works closely with facility staff, Accounts payable and Systems and Information (S&I) team to provide a best in class purchasing service and resolve any issues with Purchase Orders. This includes pricing, item adds, supplier file maintenance and adds, variance issues and system issues. Responsible to escalate new supplier adds and credit applications to Purchasing Supervisor. Perform other tasks and daily operations directed by Buyer II & III and Purchasing Supervisor. Provide administrative and operational support as needed. Support decisions for Purchasing.

Required Qualifications:

• Two years of general office or secretarial experience; OR
• An Associate’s degree or certificate in office occupations or office technology and one year of general office or secretarial experience; OR
• A Bachelor’s degree and one year of general office or secretarial experience; OR
• An equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Note: Successful completion of a formal OHSU Administrative Internship Program will substitute for one year of experience.

Job Related Knowledge and Skills:

• Experience using word processing, spreadsheet, database, internet and e-mail and scheduling applications and have a working knowledge of EDI, e-commerce, FAX, mail, and phone systems for the placement of orders.
• Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications:

Education:

• High School Diploma
• Associate’s Degree.

Experience:

• Experience working in a large volume supply chain organization.
• Prior experience using a Materials management Information System (MMIS) or other automated purchasing system.
• Prior experience working in healthcare supply chain procurement.
• Knowledge of and experience in healthcare contract management and sourcing.

Additional Details:

• This is a remote, work from home, position. Hours are 8-5, Monday - Friday.
• Local travel to OHSU's locations throughout the Portland area will be a part of this position.

Pay Range: $22.50 - $30.45 per hour

All are welcome: Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or [email protected].