University of Minnesota
About the Job
Recruitment Title:
Purchasing Specialist II
Job Classification:
8222PR - Fin Pro 2 - Purchasing
Position Overview:
The University of Minnesota seeks a Purchasing Specialist II to support our Financial Operation Center department within the Controller's Office. The Purchasing Specialist II is responsible for receiving, evaluating, processing, and coordinating a variety of requests for complex purchasing services in support of a portfolio of Resource Responsibility Centers (RRCs) in the Finance Operations Center (FinOps). Consult with other FinOps teams as needed, professionals across the University, and with external suppliers to ensure appropriate and timely support for RRCs.
Work Environment:
Hybrid (minimum three days in the office). This hybrid position is based on the Twin Cities campus for those located in the metro area. Applicants located near other UMN system campuses or working remotely from home may also be considered, and we encourage all interested candidates to apply. Occasional travel to the Twin Cities campus may be required for events and all-staff meetings.
This is a PEAK position.
Job Responsibilities with % of time Purchasing (70%)
Under moderate supervision, use information and requests from a portfolio of RRCs to complete the entry of data into the Enterprise Financial System (EFS) for purchasing functions following university standard processes and procedures for U‑Market shopping and order completion, requisition entries, and supplier set‑up.
Understand, explain, interpret university purchasing policies and procedures and apply them to various purchasing scenarios appropriately.
Conduct research on potential vendors, products, and services. Solicit quotes, analyze responses, and present results and alternatives as requested for purchases under the formal bidding threshold.
Identify when legal terms and conditions apply and ensure contracts are routed to OGC for appropriate review when necessary.
Identify, collect, and draft documentation as required by university policy to support a wide variety of complex purchases.
Work with the Purchasing unit in the Controller's Office to assist collecting required documentation for purchases.
Enter and monitor requisitions to ensure approvals and budget checks have occurred.
Think critically about need, funding source, and cost. Apply knowledge of standard processes and university purchasing methods to ensure the most cost‑efficient and expeditious outcome of purchasing activity for the University.
Use information and requests received to assess and resolve moderately complex procurement issues, for the entry of requisition change orders, and the tracking and resolution of issues related to PO sourcing and dispatch.
Serve as Purchasing subject‑matter expert: Initiate and facilitate meetings between FinOps technicians, customers, and external suppliers to clarify payments, documentation, policy requirements, etc. as needed to efficiently resolve operational problems.
Identify opportunities in the business processes and make recommendations for improvements.
Responsible for receiving, assessing, and guiding purchases at or above $10,000 up to the formal bidding threshold—ensuring documentation supports the source selection decision and that competitive processes are used to the maximum extent practicable.
Unit Support (15%)
Support the strategy of the Finance Operations Center by assisting in the production and review of supporting financial data.
Prepare ad‑hoc financial reports as needed to support the overall purchasing operation for the Finance Operations Center and for the catalog of RRCs.
Assist in the Finance Operations Center Quality Assurance program by running reports, reviewing transactions, and providing analysis and recommendations for training or procedural improvements.
Design and deliver on‑demand training sessions to FinOps colleagues and serve as a mentor to new or less experienced team members.
Professional Development (10%)
Contribute to documentation of and participate in training for procedures for the Finance Operations Center.
Identify and participate in opportunities for cross‑training across Finance Operations Center functions to maintain adequate coverage of all functions.
Complete professional development, education, and training activities, consistent with performing the responsibilities of the position.
Participate in staff development based on individual needs including ongoing skills training, DEI development, professional learning, service & scholarly activity, and engagement & well‑being.
As an individual contributor, model and contribute to crafting an inclusive work environment and encouraging a caring culture.
Other duties as assigned (5%)
Qualifications Required Qualifications
BA/BS degree with two or more years of related experience or a combination of related education and work experience equal to six or more years.
Ability to interact with standard technology platforms (e.g., word processing, data entry, email, internet browsing).
Ability to run reports, clean and understand data, compile analysis of data and present results in a clear manner.
Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
Ability to detect problems and report information to appropriate personnel.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely in both written and verbal settings.
Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge of university policies and procedures involving purchasing.
Experience in a public procurement setting including supplier sourcing, market research, RFPs, sole‑source justification, etc.
Experience or certification in any formal process improvement methodology.
Demonstrated experience developing and/or delivering training or teaching to other professionals in purchasing or a closely related field.
Pay and Benefits Pay Range:
$27.93 – $31.45 (depending on education/qualifications/experience)
Time Appointment:
100% Appointment
Position Type:
Civil‑Service & Non‑Faculty Labor Represented Staff
Please visit the
Office of Human Resources
website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.
The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
University HSA contributions
Disability and employer‑paid life insurance
Employee wellbeing program
Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
Financial counseling services
Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
How To Apply This application will remain open until filled.
Candidates for this position will have their applications reviewed in the following order:
Employees within PEAK Phase 3 who are eligible for Expression of Interest (EOI) will receive first consideration.
Employees within PEAK Phase 3 who are impacted by work moving through PEAK and apply by 11/21/25 will receive priority consideration after EOI.
Finally, all other University employees will be reviewed after the 11/21/25 priority date.
Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e‑mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624‑8647.
Diversity The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U:
http://diversity.umn.edu
Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
About the U of M The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world‑renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.
At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).
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Purchasing Specialist II
Job Classification:
8222PR - Fin Pro 2 - Purchasing
Position Overview:
The University of Minnesota seeks a Purchasing Specialist II to support our Financial Operation Center department within the Controller's Office. The Purchasing Specialist II is responsible for receiving, evaluating, processing, and coordinating a variety of requests for complex purchasing services in support of a portfolio of Resource Responsibility Centers (RRCs) in the Finance Operations Center (FinOps). Consult with other FinOps teams as needed, professionals across the University, and with external suppliers to ensure appropriate and timely support for RRCs.
Work Environment:
Hybrid (minimum three days in the office). This hybrid position is based on the Twin Cities campus for those located in the metro area. Applicants located near other UMN system campuses or working remotely from home may also be considered, and we encourage all interested candidates to apply. Occasional travel to the Twin Cities campus may be required for events and all-staff meetings.
This is a PEAK position.
Job Responsibilities with % of time Purchasing (70%)
Under moderate supervision, use information and requests from a portfolio of RRCs to complete the entry of data into the Enterprise Financial System (EFS) for purchasing functions following university standard processes and procedures for U‑Market shopping and order completion, requisition entries, and supplier set‑up.
Understand, explain, interpret university purchasing policies and procedures and apply them to various purchasing scenarios appropriately.
Conduct research on potential vendors, products, and services. Solicit quotes, analyze responses, and present results and alternatives as requested for purchases under the formal bidding threshold.
Identify when legal terms and conditions apply and ensure contracts are routed to OGC for appropriate review when necessary.
Identify, collect, and draft documentation as required by university policy to support a wide variety of complex purchases.
Work with the Purchasing unit in the Controller's Office to assist collecting required documentation for purchases.
Enter and monitor requisitions to ensure approvals and budget checks have occurred.
Think critically about need, funding source, and cost. Apply knowledge of standard processes and university purchasing methods to ensure the most cost‑efficient and expeditious outcome of purchasing activity for the University.
Use information and requests received to assess and resolve moderately complex procurement issues, for the entry of requisition change orders, and the tracking and resolution of issues related to PO sourcing and dispatch.
Serve as Purchasing subject‑matter expert: Initiate and facilitate meetings between FinOps technicians, customers, and external suppliers to clarify payments, documentation, policy requirements, etc. as needed to efficiently resolve operational problems.
Identify opportunities in the business processes and make recommendations for improvements.
Responsible for receiving, assessing, and guiding purchases at or above $10,000 up to the formal bidding threshold—ensuring documentation supports the source selection decision and that competitive processes are used to the maximum extent practicable.
Unit Support (15%)
Support the strategy of the Finance Operations Center by assisting in the production and review of supporting financial data.
Prepare ad‑hoc financial reports as needed to support the overall purchasing operation for the Finance Operations Center and for the catalog of RRCs.
Assist in the Finance Operations Center Quality Assurance program by running reports, reviewing transactions, and providing analysis and recommendations for training or procedural improvements.
Design and deliver on‑demand training sessions to FinOps colleagues and serve as a mentor to new or less experienced team members.
Professional Development (10%)
Contribute to documentation of and participate in training for procedures for the Finance Operations Center.
Identify and participate in opportunities for cross‑training across Finance Operations Center functions to maintain adequate coverage of all functions.
Complete professional development, education, and training activities, consistent with performing the responsibilities of the position.
Participate in staff development based on individual needs including ongoing skills training, DEI development, professional learning, service & scholarly activity, and engagement & well‑being.
As an individual contributor, model and contribute to crafting an inclusive work environment and encouraging a caring culture.
Other duties as assigned (5%)
Qualifications Required Qualifications
BA/BS degree with two or more years of related experience or a combination of related education and work experience equal to six or more years.
Ability to interact with standard technology platforms (e.g., word processing, data entry, email, internet browsing).
Ability to run reports, clean and understand data, compile analysis of data and present results in a clear manner.
Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
Ability to detect problems and report information to appropriate personnel.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely in both written and verbal settings.
Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge of university policies and procedures involving purchasing.
Experience in a public procurement setting including supplier sourcing, market research, RFPs, sole‑source justification, etc.
Experience or certification in any formal process improvement methodology.
Demonstrated experience developing and/or delivering training or teaching to other professionals in purchasing or a closely related field.
Pay and Benefits Pay Range:
$27.93 – $31.45 (depending on education/qualifications/experience)
Time Appointment:
100% Appointment
Position Type:
Civil‑Service & Non‑Faculty Labor Represented Staff
Please visit the
Office of Human Resources
website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.
The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
University HSA contributions
Disability and employer‑paid life insurance
Employee wellbeing program
Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
Financial counseling services
Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
How To Apply This application will remain open until filled.
Candidates for this position will have their applications reviewed in the following order:
Employees within PEAK Phase 3 who are eligible for Expression of Interest (EOI) will receive first consideration.
Employees within PEAK Phase 3 who are impacted by work moving through PEAK and apply by 11/21/25 will receive priority consideration after EOI.
Finally, all other University employees will be reviewed after the 11/21/25 priority date.
Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e‑mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624‑8647.
Diversity The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U:
http://diversity.umn.edu
Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
About the U of M The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world‑renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.
At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).
#J-18808-Ljbffr