Procurement Specialist

As a Procurement Specialist at the Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES), you will be responsible for reviewing purchase requests, processing these requests in PeopleSoft, managing contract renewals, and providing excellent customer service. You’ll also work closely with the Finance team to code requisitions correctly and utilize state P-Cards efficiently.

To qualify for the Procurement Specialist role at OMES, candidates should hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, or a related field. Additionally, at least one year of relevant experience is required and preference will be given to those with a Certification as a State of Oklahoma Certified Procurement Officer (CPO), or the ability to obtain it within a year of hire.

Working as a Procurement Specialist at OMES comes with an attractive benefits package, including 15 days of vacation, 15 days of sick leave, and 11 paid holidays each year. Employees also enjoy a comprehensive benefit package that aids in covering insurance premiums, contributing to an excellent work-life balance.

The Procurement Specialist at OMES plays a vital role in ensuring the agency operates smoothly and efficiently. By handling procurement requests and following state purchasing procedures, you’ll contribute to OMES’s goal of delivering expert guidance and continuous improvement, helping to serve Oklahomans effectively.

The work environment for a Procurement Specialist at OMES is comfortable and supportive, mainly based in an office setting. The majority of tasks involve computer work and phone interactions, making it essential to have good communication skills and be adept with various data systems.

It's important to highlight your hands-on experience with procurement processes. Discuss any specific systems you've used, such as PeopleSoft, and detail how you've managed purchase requests or implemented compliance with state regulations.

Effective communication is key in procurement roles. Explain how you prefer to keep lines of communication open, such as through regular meetings or updates, and provide examples of how this has benefited your teamwork in the past.

When faced with tight deadlines, prioritize your tasks based on urgency and importance. Share specific techniques, like using a digital task manager or setting time blocks, that have helped you stay organized and meet expectations.

Discuss your background in financial tracking and budgeting as it relates to procurement. Mention any tools or methodologies you've utilized, and how accurately tracking expenses can benefit an organization’s processes.

Show your understanding of the Central Purchasing Act by explaining its purpose and how it impacts procurement processes within state agencies. If you've applied this knowledge in previous roles, providing context will be beneficial.

Use the STAR method: describe the Situation, Task, Action, and Result of a notable procurement project. Focus on your role, the challenges faced, and how your decisions led to a successful outcome.

Detail your strategies for building and maintaining strong relationships with vendors. Discuss how you ensure that vendors meet contractual obligations while still fostering a collaborative partnership.

Highlight your commitment to ethics by discussing policies or training you've engaged in. Provide examples where you upheld transparency and fairness in your procurement decisions.

Mention specific procurement software you have experience with, such as PeopleSoft or other ERP systems, and explain how these tools have helped streamline processes and improve efficiency in your previous roles.

Express your motivation for applying at OMES by referencing the organization’s mission and values. Explain how your skills and experiences align with the role and your passion for improving government efficiency.