Associate Buyer - College of Engineering - Department of Mechanical Engineering

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world’s most renowned education institutions. With ground-breaking brain science, path-breaking performances, creative start-ups, big data, big ambitions, hands-on learning, and a whole lot of robots, CMU doesn’t imagine the future, we invent it. If you’re passionate about joining a community that challenges the curious to deliver work that matters, your journey starts here!

Innovation. Interdisciplinary collaboration. Complex problem solving. In Carnegie Mellon University’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, faculty members, researchers, and students are revolutionizing focus areas in advanced manufacturing, bioengineering, computational engineering, energy and the environment, product design, and robotics. In addition, they are using their expertise in interdisciplinary research centers across the university.

The Mechanical Engineering department at CMU is searching for an Associate Buyer. In this position, you report to the Director of Finance in the Mechanical Engineering Department. You will be responsible for purchasing goods and materials and preparing and processing related paperwork in compliance with the University purchasing policy (i.e., purchase order). You will also contact vendors as needed to follow up on questions and/or issues and be able to answer department-related questions regarding the University purchasing policies and procedures. Generally, this position purchases goods and materials from vendors on the Procurement Services preferred supplier and contract supplier list and such other tasks that are assigned to you.

Core responsibilities include:

• Serves as the main point of contact for all buying activities of the department in association with other associate buyers.
• Ensures compliance with all university purchasing guidelines and restrictions including but not limited to: documentation, justification, the use of oracle account strings, capital purchases, hazardous materials, etc.
• Oversees and monitors the MechE purchasing email inbox in coordination with other associate buyers.
• Accepts purchase request forms; ensuring they are completed accurately and with appropriate details.
• Corresponds with suppliers for quotations/invoices.
• Reconciles purchase card transactions in accordance with university policies.
• Prepares purchase orders and performs buying duties.
• Secures contracts from the University’s Contracts Office by supplying the terms and conditions, equipment quoted or invoiced and any services that are required.
• Provides students, faculty, and staff with updates of order information and tracking.
• Responsible for updating fixed asset listing and responding to inquiries and requests from Property Accounting.
• Corresponds with accounting department to ensure vendors are paid in a timely manner.
• Troubleshoot problems & questions such as delivery, price changes, back-orders, resolve/remove any sales tax exemption charges, partial or over shipments, returns, etc. Maintains all up-to-date vendor contact information.
• Other duties as assigned.

Inclusion and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of diverse audiences. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

• 1-3 years of purchasing/procurement experience
• Higher Education work experience preferred.
• Verbal and written communication, planning and problem solving and reasoning skills required.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Ability to work with sensitive information, maintain confidentiality and use discretion.
• Ability to pay close attention to detail; keep and maintain accurate and detailed reports and records.
• Ability to maintain composure when dealing with difficult situations and/or individuals.
• Ability to prioritize work and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Visual acuity to perform activities such as extended use of a computer monitor, extensive reading, transcribing, analyzing data and figures, visual inspection involving small defects, small parts and/or operation of machines, using measurement devices, and/or assembly of parts at distances close to the eye.
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements:

• Successful background check

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits available to eligible employees.

Those employees who are benefits eligible have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of advantages from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance to an enticing retirement savings program offering a generous employer contribution. You can also unlock your potential with tuition benefits and take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays. Finally, rest easy knowing you are covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Other perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and so much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits that may be awaiting you, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role and responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique skills and the diverse perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

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Full Time/Part time

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More Information:

• Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
• Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
• Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
• Statement of Assurance