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The Procurement Division of the County Executive’s Office is seeking well-qualified candidates for the position of Buyer II. Under general supervision, a Buyer II provides a full range of detailed and complex procurement services for all county departments.

 

Examples of Duties:
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Receive, review, and check purchase requisitions to determine needs of departments, market conditions, and product availability. 
• Consult and assist departments with product selection and procurement methods.
• Invite and accept bids, and evaluate prices, discounts, and delivery conditions. 
• Assist departments in the preparation of product specifications and contracts. 
• Analyze bids for conformance to specifications and award bids. 
• Interview with sales and manufacturers' representatives about products and services. 
• Investigate complaints and problems and make recommendations for solutions and/or adjustments. 
• Serve on various project teams and committees as required. 
• Prepare reports, recommendations, and correspondence. 
• Provide technical assistance to departments on the County's automated purchasing system. 
• Instruct departments on County procurement procedures and policies. 
• Perform related duties and special projects as assigned.

The ability to provide excellent customer service, engage in active listening to understand customer needs, and connect quickly with County personnel are critical to success in this position.

There are several other competencies, including technical, interpersonal, analytical, and organizational, which will be important for success in this role.

Procurement Expertise – In-depth knowledge of large-scale procurement practices and public agency procurement principles and familiarity with federal and state laws and regulations affecting procurement.

Commodity Knowledge – Understanding of commodity sources, marketing practices, and pricing strategies and experience with both formal and informal bidding processes.

Contract Management – Ability to develop and analyze product specifications, bids, and contracts.

Technical Proficiency – Skilled in the use of procurement-related computer programs and analytical tools.

Analytical Skills – Proficient in analyzing purchase requisitions and evaluating complex specifications and proposals.

Problem Solving – Ability to identify and resolve procurement issues swiftly and effectively.

Negotiation Skills – Capability to invite and evaluate bids and negotiate prices and terms with vendors.

Effective Communication – Strong oral and written communication skills for interacting with clients, vendors, and stakeholders, including the ability to write clear, concise reports and correspondence.

Relationship Management – Skilled in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with various stakeholders, including both internal customers and external vendors.  

Instruction and Guidance – Aptitude for providing technical assistance and instructing departments on procurement procedures.

Project Management – Ability to manage projects and contribute to various committees and project teams.

Adaptability – Works effectively in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple priorities.

 

Qualifications:

Any combination of experiences that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying.  

• A typical way to qualify at the Buyer II level might be three years of experience that would demonstrate knowledge and command of complex commodity areas, and the principles, policies, and procedures of public agency procurement.

 
Knowledge of:

• Principles, practices, procedures, and applications of large-scale procurement. 
• Laws and regulations governing procurement policies and procedures in public agencies. 
• Procedures and requirements of governmental procurement. 
• Commodity sources of supply, trade, brand names, publications, and source material in the field of procurement.
• Procedures and practices of procurement using formal and informal bidding. 
• Sources of supply, marketing practices, and pricing methods and differentials. 
• Computer programs related to procurement and word processing.

 
Skill/Ability to:

• Analyze purchase requisitions and evaluate specifications, proposals, bids, and contracts for complex commodity areas and purchases. 
• Develop product specifications, bids, and contracts. 
• Solve problems efficiently. 
• Perform the necessary research and make informed decisions using all available information and resources. 
• Work in a fast-paced environment. 
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. 
• Write clear, concise reports and correspondence. 
• Establish and maintain effective work relationships with customers, vendors, and procurement team members.
• Ensure procurements are conducted in compliance of County procedures and policies. 

 

Application/Examination:

Open & Promotional. Anyone may apply.  Current County of San Mateo and County of San Mateo Superior Court of California employees with at least six months (1040 hours) of continuous service in a classified regular, probationary, extra-help/limited term positions prior to the final filing date will receive five points added to their final passing score on this examination. 

 

Responses to the supplemental questions must be submitted in addition to our regular employment application form. A resume will not be accepted as a substitute for the required employment application and supplemental questionnaire.  
   

The examination process will consist of an application screening (weight: pass/fail) based on the candidates' application and responses to the supplemental questions. Candidates who pass the application screening will be invited to a panel interview (weight: 100%) which may include a performance exam. Depending on the number of applicants, an application appraisal of education and experience may be used in place of other examinations or further evaluation of work experience may be conducted to group applicants by level of qualification. All applicants who meet the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed advancement through any subsequent phase of the examination. All examinations will be given in County of San Mateo, California and applicants must participate at their own expense.  

 

IMPORTANT: Applications for this position will only be accepted online. If you are currently on the County's website, you may click the "Apply" button. If you are not on the County's website, please go to https://jobs.smcgov.org/ to apply. Responses to the supplemental questions must be submitted in addition to our regular employment application form. A resume will not be accepted as a substitute for the required employment application and supplemental questionnaire. 

 

Tentative Recruitment Schedule
Deadline for Applications:  January 9, 2026, at 11:59 PM
Application Screening:  January 14, 2026
Combined Panel and Departmental Interview:  January 27, 2026

Overview:
The Senior Management Analyst in Valley Water's Purchasing and Contracts Unit is responsible for leading the procurement of information technology (IT) goods, services, and consultants. This role ensures compliance with organizational policies and industry best practices for the complete procurement process—from solicitation to contract administration—for IT-related acquisitions. The position entails analyzing bids, conducting market analysis, negotiating vendors, negotiating contracts, and providing strategic recommendations to maximize value. Additionally, this position acts as a key analyst on IT procurement strategies and leads complex IT procurement projects, ensuring alignment with Valley Water's goals.
 
Our Commitment: 
Racial equity, diversity and inclusion are integral to Valley Water. We are committed to building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working environment for all. We believe every member of our team enriches our diversity, contributes to inclusion, and strengthens belonging by broadening our perspective and collective understanding of the world around us to accomplish our mission to equitably provide safe, clean water, natural flood protections, and environmental stewardship.
 
About Valley Water:
 Valley Water is a public agency with an operating and capital budget of $964 million, and over 900 employees. With headquarters in San José, Valley Water provides water supply, enhances streams and watersheds through creek restoration and habitat protection, provides flood protection for homes, schools, businesses and roadways, and partners with other agencies to provide trails and open space for the community.
 
Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Oversee the end-to-end procurement process for IT goods, services, and consultants, ensuring compliance with Valley Water policies, organizational requirements, and industry best practices. This includes leading, planning, and overseeing complex procurements for accuracy and compliance.
• Negotiate, prepare, and administer contracts for IT-related procurements to ensure organizational needs are met and compliance by vendors is maintained. 
• Provide training and support in procurement methods and procedures.
• Evaluate and analyze bids, making recommendations for vendor selection in accordance with Valley Water standards. Develop specifications for goods and services and ensure fair and open competition among vendors.
• Develop and implement strategic procurement plans for IT acquisitions that align with Valley Water’s technological goals and future needs. Provide technical guidance on requisitioning procedures, vendor qualifications, and the availability of goods and services.
• Analyze, identify and make recommendations to purchasing standards and procedures for requisitioning, solicitation of bids, and contract administration to ensure best pricing and value.
• Respond to questions and inquiries from Valley Water staff and other agencies, investigating complaints and recommending corrective actions as necessary. Ensure effective communication with stakeholders throughout the procurement process.
• Prepare reports and maintain required purchasing records, preparing documentation as needed for Valley Water.
• Execute related duties and responsibilities as required to support the Procurement and Consultant Contracts Unit and Valley Water’s objectives.

Ideal Candidate's Background Includes:
Applicants whose experience and background best match the ideal experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and education are considered ideal candidates for the position. To determine the top candidates, each applicant will be assessed based on the ideal candidate criteria as listed below.
 
Ideal Experience:

• Five (5) years of experience (ideally in the public sector) independently analyzing complex competitive procurement processes for goods and services.            
• Experience working with project managers to develop scopes of work and write complex Invitation to Bid or Request for Proposals for the procurement of materials, equipment, infrastructure maintenance or information technology services.
• Experience negotiating and administering contracts for IT-related procurements, with a focus on achieving favorable terms and conditions that align with organizational objectives.
• Experience using procurement software tools.

Ideal Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to oversee and analyze the procurement process for IT goods, services, and consultants, ensuring adherence to organizational policies and best practices.
• Analytical capabilities to evaluate bids and proposals effectively, facilitating informed recommendations for vendor selection in accordance with established compliance standards.
• Ability to provide strategic advice on IT procurement strategies, contributing to decision-making processes related to complex procurement projects.
• Effective communication skills to engage with stakeholders, ensuring their requirements are understood and addressed within procurement strategies.
• Establish and maintain highly effective working relationships with Valley Water managers, staff, suppliers, vendors, and others encountered in the course of work.

Ideal Knowledge:

• Demonstrated expertise in analyzing complex procurement processes for IT goods and services, ensuring compliance with applicable laws, organizational policies, and industry best practices.
• In-depth knowledge of contract negotiation and administration, with the ability to secure favorable terms that align with organizational goals and maximize value.
• Analytical skills for evaluating bids and proposals, enabling effective recommendations for vendor selection based on established compliance standards and organizational needs.
• Knowledge of analyzing and guiding strategic procurement plans that align with organizational technological goals, ensuring the acquisition of IT goods and services meets current and future requirements.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders, facilitating their needs and requirements within procurement strategies, and ensuring transparency throughout the procurement process.
• Familiarity with procurement software tools to streamline processes and enhance the efficiency of procurement activities.

Ideal Training and Education:

• Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in public administration, political science, business administration or a related field. 
• Directly related experience may be substituted for the college requirement on the basis of one and one-half years of experience for one year of education to a maximum of four years.

 

Required License or Certificate

 Preferred Certifications:

• Certified Public Procurement Buyer (CPPB) or Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO), Universal Public Procurement Certification Council (UPPCC).
• Extensive experience in public sector procurement and contracts management in the State of California. 
• Other Purchasing and/or Supply Chain Management Certifications. Examples include Certified Purchasing Manager, (C.P.M.) or Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Institute for Supply Management (ISM).

To review the Classification Specification, please click  here (Download PDF reader)

Purchasing & Consultant Contracts Services Unit (Position Code 476)

Valley Water Telework Program: Eligibility for telework will depend on the type of work performed, operational needs, and the ability for the employee to perform the essential functions of their job duties while teleworking. Employment with Valley Water requires employees to live within 150 miles of their primary physical work location located in San Jose, California by their start date.

This position is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule, typically working 40% remote and 60% onsite, after completion of the probationary period (one year). Internal candidates will follow existing teleworking schedule.

Overview:
The Senior Management Analyst in Valley Water's Purchasing and Contracts Unit is responsible for leading the procurement of information technology (IT) goods, services, and consultants. This role ensures compliance with organizational policies and industry best practices for the complete procurement process—from solicitation to contract administration—for IT-related acquisitions. The position entails analyzing bids, conducting market analysis, negotiating vendors, negotiating contracts, and providing strategic recommendations to maximize value. Additionally, this position acts as a key analyst on IT procurement strategies and leads complex IT procurement projects, ensuring alignment with Valley Water's goals.
 
Our Commitment: 
Racial equity, diversity and inclusion are integral to Valley Water. We are committed to building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working environment for all. We believe every member of our team enriches our diversity, contributes to inclusion, and strengthens belonging by broadening our perspective and collective understanding of the world around us to accomplish our mission to equitably provide safe, clean water, natural flood protections, and environmental stewardship.
 
About Valley Water:
 Valley Water is a public agency with an operating and capital budget of $964 million, and over 900 employees. With headquarters in San José, Valley Water provides water supply, enhances streams and watersheds through creek restoration and habitat protection, provides flood protection for homes, schools, businesses and roadways, and partners with other agencies to provide trails and open space for the community.
 
Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Oversee the end-to-end procurement process for IT goods, services, and consultants, ensuring compliance with Valley Water policies, organizational requirements, and industry best practices. This includes leading, planning, and overseeing complex procurements for accuracy and compliance.
• Negotiate, prepare, and administer contracts for IT-related procurements to ensure organizational needs are met and compliance by vendors is maintained. 
• Provide training and support in procurement methods and procedures.
• Evaluate and analyze bids, making recommendations for vendor selection in accordance with Valley Water standards. Develop specifications for goods and services and ensure fair and open competition among vendors.
• Develop and implement strategic procurement plans for IT acquisitions that align with Valley Water’s technological goals and future needs. Provide technical guidance on requisitioning procedures, vendor qualifications, and the availability of goods and services.
• Analyze, identify and make recommendations to purchasing standards and procedures for requisitioning, solicitation of bids, and contract administration to ensure best pricing and value.
• Respond to questions and inquiries from Valley Water staff and other agencies, investigating complaints and recommending corrective actions as necessary. Ensure effective communication with stakeholders throughout the procurement process.
• Prepare reports and maintain required purchasing records, preparing documentation as needed for Valley Water.
• Execute related duties and responsibilities as required to support the Procurement and Consultant Contracts Unit and Valley Water’s objectives.

Ideal Candidate's Background Includes:
Applicants whose experience and background best match the ideal experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and education are considered ideal candidates for the position. To determine the top candidates, each applicant will be assessed based on the ideal candidate criteria as listed below.
 
Ideal Experience:

• Five (5) years of experience (ideally in the public sector) independently analyzing complex competitive procurement processes for goods and services.            
• Experience working with project managers to develop scopes of work and write complex Invitation to Bid or Request for Proposals for the procurement of materials, equipment, infrastructure maintenance or information technology services.
• Experience negotiating and administering contracts for IT-related procurements, with a focus on achieving favorable terms and conditions that align with organizational objectives.
• Experience using procurement software tools.

Ideal Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to oversee and analyze the procurement process for IT goods, services, and consultants, ensuring adherence to organizational policies and best practices.
• Analytical capabilities to evaluate bids and proposals effectively, facilitating informed recommendations for vendor selection in accordance with established compliance standards.
• Ability to provide strategic advice on IT procurement strategies, contributing to decision-making processes related to complex procurement projects.
• Effective communication skills to engage with stakeholders, ensuring their requirements are understood and addressed within procurement strategies.
• Establish and maintain highly effective working relationships with Valley Water managers, staff, suppliers, vendors, and others encountered in the course of work.

Ideal Knowledge:

• Demonstrated expertise in analyzing complex procurement processes for IT goods and services, ensuring compliance with applicable laws, organizational policies, and industry best practices.
• In-depth knowledge of contract negotiation and administration, with the ability to secure favorable terms that align with organizational goals and maximize value.
• Analytical skills for evaluating bids and proposals, enabling effective recommendations for vendor selection based on established compliance standards and organizational needs.
• Knowledge of analyzing and guiding strategic procurement plans that align with organizational technological goals, ensuring the acquisition of IT goods and services meets current and future requirements.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders, facilitating their needs and requirements within procurement strategies, and ensuring transparency throughout the procurement process.
• Familiarity with procurement software tools to streamline processes and enhance the efficiency of procurement activities.

Ideal Training and Education:

• Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in public administration, political science, business administration or a related field. 
• Directly related experience may be substituted for the college requirement on the basis of one and one-half years of experience for one year of education to a maximum of four years.

Required License or Certificate  Preferred Certifications:

• Certified Public Procurement Buyer (CPPB) or Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO), Universal Public Procurement Certification Council (UPPCC).
• Extensive experience in public sector procurement and contracts management in the State of California. 
• Other Purchasing and/or Supply Chain Management Certifications. Examples include Certified Purchasing Manager, (C.P.M.) or Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Institute for Supply Management (ISM).

To review the Classification Specification, please click  here (Download PDF reader)

Purchasing & Consultant Contracts Services Unit (Position Code 476)

Valley Water Telework Program: Eligibility for telework will depend on the type of work performed, operational needs, and the ability for the employee to perform the essential functions of their job duties while teleworking. Employment with Valley Water requires employees to live within 150 miles of their primary physical work location located in San Jose, California by their start date.

This position is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule, typically working 40% remote and 60% onsite, after completion of the probationary period (one year). Internal candidates will follow existing teleworking schedule.

Valley Water is searching for top-tier candidates to fill this exciting opportunity. Internal candidates will get first consideration.

For priority consideration, apply by 11/14/2024. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and interviews will be conducted with qualified candidates throughout the recruitment period. The position will remain open until filled.
 
Overview:
The Senior Management Analyst in Valley Water's Purchasing and Contracts Unit is responsible for leading the procurement of information technology (IT) goods, services, and consultants. This role ensures compliance with organizational policies and industry best practices for the complete procurement process—from solicitation to contract administration—for IT-related acquisitions. The position entails analyzing bids, conducting market analysis, negotiating vendors, negotiating contracts, and providing strategic recommendations to maximize value. Additionally, this position acts as a key analyst on IT procurement strategies and leads complex IT procurement projects, ensuring alignment with Valley Water's goals.
 
Our Commitment: 
Racial equity, diversity and inclusion are integral to Valley Water. We are committed to building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working environment for all. We believe every member of our team enriches our diversity, contributes to inclusion, and strengthens belonging by broadening our perspective and collective understanding of the world around us to accomplish our mission to equitably provide safe, clean water, natural flood protections, and environmental stewardship.
 
About Valley Water:
 Valley Water is a public agency with an operating and capital budget of $964 million, and over 900 employees. With headquarters in San José, Valley Water provides water supply, enhances streams and watersheds through creek restoration and habitat protection, provides flood protection for homes, schools, businesses and roadways, and partners with other agencies to provide trails and open space for the community.
 
Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Oversee the end-to-end procurement process for IT goods, services, and consultants, ensuring compliance with Valley Water policies, organizational requirements, and industry best practices. This includes leading, planning, and overseeing complex procurements for accuracy and compliance.
• Negotiate, prepare, and administer contracts for IT-related procurements to ensure organizational needs are met and compliance by vendors is maintained. 
• Provide training and support in procurement methods and procedures.
• Evaluate and analyze bids, making recommendations for vendor selection in accordance with Valley Water standards. Develop specifications for goods and services and ensure fair and open competition among vendors.
• Develop and implement strategic procurement plans for IT acquisitions that align with Valley Water’s technological goals and future needs. Provide technical guidance on requisitioning procedures, vendor qualifications, and the availability of goods and services.
• Analyze, identify and make recommendations to purchasing standards and procedures for requisitioning, solicitation of bids, and contract administration to ensure best pricing and value.
• Respond to questions and inquiries from Valley Water staff and other agencies, investigating complaints and recommending corrective actions as necessary. Ensure effective communication with stakeholders throughout the procurement process.
• Prepare reports and maintain required purchasing records, preparing documentation as needed for Valley Water.
• Execute related duties and responsibilities as required to support the Procurement and Consultant Contracts Unit and Valley Water’s objectives.

Ideal Candidate's Background Includes:
Applicants whose experience and background best match the ideal experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and education are considered ideal candidates for the position. To determine the top candidates, each applicant will be assessed based on the ideal candidate criteria as listed below.
 
Ideal Experience:

• Five (5) years of experience (ideally in the public sector) independently analyzing complex competitive procurement processes for goods and services.            
• Experience working with project managers to develop scopes of work and write complex Invitation to Bid or Request for Proposals for the procurement of materials, equipment, infrastructure maintenance or information technology services.
• Experience negotiating and administering contracts for IT-related procurements, with a focus on achieving favorable terms and conditions that align with organizational objectives.
• Experience using procurement software tools.

Ideal Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to oversee and analyze the procurement process for IT goods, services, and consultants, ensuring adherence to organizational policies and best practices.
• Analytical capabilities to evaluate bids and proposals effectively, facilitating informed recommendations for vendor selection in accordance with established compliance standards.
• Ability to provide strategic advice on IT procurement strategies, contributing to decision-making processes related to complex procurement projects.
• Effective communication skills to engage with stakeholders, ensuring their requirements are understood and addressed within procurement strategies.
• Establish and maintain highly effective working relationships with Valley Water managers, staff, suppliers, vendors, and others encountered in the course of work.

Ideal Knowledge:

• Demonstrated expertise in analyzing complex procurement processes for IT goods and services, ensuring compliance with applicable laws, organizational policies, and industry best practices.
• In-depth knowledge of contract negotiation and administration, with the ability to secure favorable terms that align with organizational goals and maximize value.
• Analytical skills for evaluating bids and proposals, enabling effective recommendations for vendor selection based on established compliance standards and organizational needs.
• Knowledge of analyzing and guiding strategic procurement plans that align with organizational technological goals, ensuring the acquisition of IT goods and services meets current and future requirements.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders, facilitating their needs and requirements within procurement strategies, and ensuring transparency throughout the procurement process.
• Familiarity with procurement software tools to streamline processes and enhance the efficiency of procurement activities.

Ideal Training and Education:

• Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in public administration, political science, business administration or a related field. 
• Directly related experience may be substituted for the college requirement on the basis of one and one-half years of experience for one year of education to a maximum of four years.

 

Required License or Certificate: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license. Individuals who do not meet the driver's license requirement due to a disability will be considered for a reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.
 
Preferred Certifications:

• Certified Public Procurement Buyer (CPPB) or Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO), Universal Public Procurement Certification Council (UPPCC).
• Extensive experience in public sector procurement and contracts management in the State of California. 
• Other Purchasing and/or Supply Chain Management Certifications. Examples include Certified Purchasing Manager, (C.P.M.) or Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Institute for Supply Management (ISM).