Purchasing Specialist

Purchasing Specialist

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Posted Job Title

Purchasing Specialist

Job Profile Title

Business Administrator A

Job Description Summary

The Purchasing Specialist is responsible for managing all aspects of procurement, card activity, travel, and expense compliance within SP2 Finance. The position oversees purchasing, travel, and meeting card transactions, purchase order and non-PO processing, supplier onboarding, and Independent Service Provider (ISP) oversight. The Purchasing Specialist ensures that purchasing and expense activities comply with University policies and internal controls through ongoing monitoring, reconciliation, and enforcement. In addition to day-to-day operations, this role actively participates in and collaborates with central Procurement and Purchasing Services, including contributing to focus groups, work groups, and policy discussions. The Purchasing Specialist also serves as the primary contact for procurement and travel inquiries and as a backup to the Payroll Specialist for timekeeping responsibilities.

• All SP2 staff are required to participate in convocation and graduation ceremonies as needed.

Job Description

Job Responsibilities

Qualifications

Associate of Science and 2 to 3 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.

Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Excellent customer service and communication skills, including the ability to explain policies and procedures clearly to faculty, staff, and students.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and familiarity with data reconciliation and reporting tools preferred.

Ability to interpret and apply financial and procurement policies, ensure compliance, and identify process improvements.

Capacity to work independently with sound judgment, as well as collaboratively within a team and across departments.

Commitment to confidentiality, integrity, and excellent internal customer service.

Knowledge of Penn financial systems (BEN Financials, Concur, Penn Marketplace, Workday) and University purchasing, card, and travel policies strongly preferred.

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

School of Social Policy and Practice

Pay Range

$49,500.00 - $60,000.00 Annual Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Special Requirements

Background checks may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

University Benefits

Health, Life, and Flexible Spending Accounts : Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits to protect you and your family's health and welfare. You can also use flexible spending accounts to pay for eligible health care and dependent care expenses with pre-tax dollars.

To learn more, please visit : https : / / www.hr.upenn.edu / PennHR / benefits-pay

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

To apply, visit https : / / wd1.myworkdaysite.com / en-US / recruiting / upenn / careers-at-penn / job / Sch-PubPol-Caster-Building / Purchasing-Specialist_JR00113882-1

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