Job Description

AUTO PARTS BUYER

JOB CODE 04280

Effective Date:	07/92A

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:

The fundamental reason this classification exists is to arrange for the purchase of equipment parts and related supplies from contract and non-contract vendors. After reviewing order requests and discussing any unusual specifications, this class obtains price quotes, compares prices of items, places orders, and arranges for deliveries. This work is performed independently in the central auto stores facility under the general supervision of the Lead Auto Parts Buyer.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Purchases equipment parts and materials required to service and repair the City's fleet of equipment;
• Obtains oral and written price quotes from vendors;
• Compares quotes with the specifications and availability of items and places orders;
• Contacts vendors and prepares quotations for the repair of shop tools;
• Organizes, updates, and retains product information files and purchase order records;
• Reviews orders for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with existing policies and procedures;
• Reviews alternatives and makes decisions consistent with energy, affirmative action, value analysis, and other objectives;
• Demonstrates continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly to provide quality seamless customer service.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Automotive and heavy duty equipment parts and their nomenclature, identification systems, and interchangeability.
• Assigned commodities and services including sources of supply, commodity markets, price trends, grades, and qualities.
• Common business practices relating to the purchase, pricing, terms, shipment, taxes, and payment for commodities and services.
• Principles and practices of centralized purchasing.
• Large scale purchasing methods and procedures.

Ability to:

• Communicate orally in the English language with customers, co-workers, vendors and the public in face-to-face one-to-one settings, or using the telephone.
• Read, comprehend and apply knowledge of the laws, ordinances, rules, regulations, and procedures governing public procurement.
• Work cooperatively with other City employees and the public.
• Make arithmetical calculations (multiplication, division, percentages, addition and subtraction) with accuracy and speed manually or through the use of a calculator.
• Express ideas clearly in writing in the English language.
• Plan and organize own workload.
• Resolve inquires and complaints from the public.
• Work within established policies and regulations.
• Research commodity markets and report findings.
• Serve as a liaison between City departments and vendors.
• Work safely without presenting a direct threat to self or others.

Additional Requirements:

• Some positions will require the performance of other essential and marginal functions depending upon work location, assignment, or shift.

ACCEPTABLE EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:
One year of experience as a buyer for parts and materials required to service and repair an equipment fleet. Other combinations of experience and education that meet the minimum requirements may be substituted.