PROCUREMENT ASSOCIATE

Procurement Associate

Columbia Association, headquartered in Howard County, Maryland, is known for engaging our diverse community, cultivating a unique sense of place, and enhancing the quality of life in Columbia, Maryland, all thanks to the efforts of our remarkable team members. If you share in our passion for teamwork and our vision, we want you to fast-forward your career with us at Columbia Association.

The Procurement Associate is an entry-level position designed to introduce early-career professionals to the field of procurement. This role provides foundational experience and exposure to a range of procurement functions, offering a valuable opportunity to explore a potential long-term career path. There is potential for growth and upward mobility within the department for those who demonstrate aptitude and interest. The position includes entering, verifying, and processing documents such as requisitions/purchase orders, change orders, and related forms to ensure accuracy and completeness. This position confers with internal and external customers to resolve problems and answer questions related to procurement activities and notifies key stakeholders of errors, delays, or problems that affect the procurement cycle. The Procurement Associate investigates purchase order inquiries and provides budget, vendor, and related information to internal and external parties and provides clarification on procurement policies and procedures accordingly. Maintenance of historical records and related files is also a primary duty.

Essential functions:

• Under close supervision, provides support in the initial review of document submissions received for compliance and adherence to laws, regulations, policies, and procedures and for overall content clarity and sufficiency.
• Assists with the administrative aspects of the solicitation for bids/proposals.
• Utilizes CA's system to assist with the management of various stages of the procurement process.
• Answers inquiries internal stakeholders and vendors regarding basic procurement issues and forwards complex inquiries to appropriate internal resources.
• Updates and maintains critical files for various transactions within the department, ensuring full compliance with audit requirements and document retention guidelines. Participates in internal and external audits as required.
• Supports month-end and year-end closing processes.

Additional responsibilities:

• Protects the organization's value by keeping information secure and confidential, adhering to company security policies and procedures.
• Participates in professional development opportunities to stay current and continuously improve skills.

Requirements, Qualifications, and Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in related field (business administration, management, related subject) within 24 months of employment is preferred.
• Prior internship or work experience in procurement, business administration, or related operations is preferred but not required. This is a learning-oriented position ideal for recent graduates or professionals exploring a career in procurement.
• Proficient in MS Office 365.
• Excellent communication, problem solving, and analytical skills.

Work environment:

1. Ability to work in an office setting. Currently, this position offers a hybrid work environment, requiring two days in the office per week. Hybrid schedule availability is subject to change at senior management's discretion.
2. Position may occasionally require extended hours including evenings and weekends.

Licenses, Certifications, etc.:

• A certification through NIGP or UPPCC (or both) within 4 years of employment is highly encouraged.

The pay range for this position is $22.00/per hour. The actual pay rate offered will depend on the overall qualifications of the individual applicant for the position and the amount budgeted for the role. CA offers a positive, fun work environment and a generous benefits package. Part-time benefits include a free Fit & Play membership, Wellness benefits w/ perks and some paid leave. Full-time benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), a free Fit & Play membership, Wellness benefits w/ perks and paid leave.

Columbia Association is an equal employment opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to the following legally protected characteristics: race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, military/veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state or federal law. EOE/ADA. We encourage applications from candidates who can contribute to the diversity of our organization. Over and above non-discrimination, CA's mission includes engaging our diverse community and meeting the evolving needs of a dynamic and inclusive community. That's why we welcome folks of diverse or marginalized backgrounds and abilities to apply to become part of the CA team.