Grant and Research Focused Strategic Sourcing Purchasing Agent

Embry-Riddle : A Global Leader in Aviation and Aerospace

With vibrant campuses in Daytona Beach, FL and Prescott, AZ, plus a worldwide network across approximately 120 locations, Embry-Riddle stands as the worlds largest aviation and aerospace university. For over 95 years, weve been pioneering education in STEM fields, serving over 11,600 residential students and 19,200 globally in the 2023-24 academic year with cutting-edge programs in Applied Science, Aviation, Business, Technology, Engineering, Safety, Security, and Space.

The Opportunity

The Grant and Research Focused Strategic Sourcing Purchasing Agent reports directly to the Director of Procurement Services and works in close collaboration with the Universitys Research Administration and Finance teams. This position serves as the primary procurement liaison for grant- and research-funded purchases, ensuring compliance with university policies, Uniform Guidance (2 CFR Part 200), Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), and sponsor-specific requirements.

The Purchasing Agent partners closely with faculty, principal investigators (PIs), research administrators, and internal stakeholders to provide procurement guidance, source specialized goods and services, and deliver a high level of customer service. The role also contributes to strategic sourcing initiatives by analyzing spend, negotiating contracts, and developing sourcing strategies to optimize value, mitigate risk, and support the unique needs of grant-funded research.

The successful candidate will be able to work independently on complex projects requiring sound judgment and regulatory knowledge, while also collaborating with Procurement leadership to identify opportunities for spend consolidation, supplier leverage, and process improvements that benefit both research and University-wide procurement.

Perks Await You at Embry-Riddle!

Health Benefits : Experience comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with wellness programs that include preventive care and fitness memberships. Our flexible spending and health savings accounts simplify managing healthcare costs. Join a workplace that prioritizes your healthbecause your journey to wellness should be rewarding! Buckle up for a healthier, happier you!

Tuition Coverage : Get 100% tuition coverage for yourself for one undergraduate and one graduate degree, and discounted rates for your spouse and dependent children up to age 26.

Retirement Contributions : ERAU contributes an annual 6% gift of your base salary to your retirement plan and offers a 4% matching contribution, with no vesting period.

Generous Time Off : Relax with 18 days of personal leave in your first year. Enjoy 9+ paid holidays, including the day after Thanksgiving and the week between Christmas Eve and New Years Day.

Qualifications

Required Education and Qualifications :

Bachelors degree in business, Procurement, Supply Chain Management, or a related field required.

Certifications

Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) ISM

Certified Purchasing Manager (C.P.M.) ISM

Certified Public Purchasing Buyer (CPPB) NIGP

Experience

Minimum of 13 years of relevant work experience in accounting or finance.

Skills and Abilities

Strong negotiation, analytical, and decision-making skills.

In-depth knowledge of supply chain and procurement functions and procedures.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Proven ability to deliver high levels of customer service to both internal and external stakeholders.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.

Demonstrated ability to work proactively and drive process improvements.

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite

Experience using procurement tracking systems and tools.

Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

Strong budgeting and financial process awareness.

Comfortable working collaboratively with both the Budget Office and Controllers Office on payment and process-related issues.

Ability to work effectively under pressure and in stressful situations.

High level of accountability and willingness to take ownership of tasks, decisions, and outcomes.