Buyer (Procurement Specialist III)

The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory is looking for a Buyer (Procurement Specialist III) to join the Procurement Department. The PPPL Procurement Department, a centralized procurement organization, is responsible for procuring in all goods and services required to operate the laboratory. In this Buyer (PSIII) role, you will support lab-wide procurement activities which include products, research, services, maintenance and construction.

Promote a high degree of professionalism in purchasing activities. Minimize risks to PPPL and the government, while meeting Procurement objectives, safeguarding Laboratory policies, and maintaining effective relationships with Department of Energy (DOE), Princeton University, and various Laboratory stakeholders.

A U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. With more than 70 years of history, PPPL is a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion energy, a potentially limitless energy source. PPPL is also using its expertise to advance research in the areas of microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to contribute to our mission and vision. Come join us!

Core Duties:

• The Buyer (Procurement Specialist III) is responsible for cradle-to-grave administration of commercial and non-commercial “moderate” risk and complex acquisitions.
  • Utilizes independent problem-solving techniques and skills, including managing procurement-requestor meetings to minimize procurement risk and promote value of the procurement process.
  • Supports acquisition pre-award support including: Statements of Work (SOW), Acquisition Strategy Support, Cost Estimates, Market Research, Request for Information (RFIs), Request for Proposal(RFPs)/Request for Quotes(RFQs), Source Selection, and other miscellaneous pre-award documentation.
  • Purchasing Card (P-Card) program.
  • Seeks quality goods/services at fair and reasonable prices to meet the Laboratory’s needs.
  • Manages supplier relationships.
  • Negotiates and awards purchase orders.
  • Maintains excellent file documentation, standard format and record retention consistent with PPPL Procurement manual for all procurements.
  • Engages in post-award administration.
• The PS III participates in special projects as assigned by the Procurement Director and assumes the authority fully commensurate with assigned duties and responsibilities.

Education and Experience: 

• Minimum of 6-8 years’ experience as a Buyer in a Federal or State purchasing/procurement environment.
• Bachelor’s Degree in related field preferred.
• Experience within construction, facilities, aerospace or Federal Government procurement Relevant business experience with progressively increasing responsibilities.
• Demonstrated experience with the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and other applicable government regulations.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Knowledge of federally funded procurements, FAR, Department of Energy Acquisition Regulations (DEAR), and Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) is required.

• Ample experience in all aspects of Federal procurement file documentation to include market research, source selection, cost/price analysis, negotiating in accordance with relevant procurement regulations and best practices.

• Demonstrated experience in a Federal Contractor Purchasing System Review (CPSR) Environment or equivalent.

• Knowledge of computer-based procurement systems; demonstrated skills using various software.

• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Work Suite.

• Other strongly desired skills and traits include: Excellent verbal and written communication; results-oriented, self-motivated, independent decision-making and problem-solving, negotiation skills; and outstanding prioritization and multi-tasking skills.

• High ethical standards representative of Princeton University’s commitment to excellence are a must.

Physical Requirements: 

• This position requires occasional reaching, stooping and lifting of office files, reports and records, typically weighing 5 pounds or less. Reasonable accommodations will be considered which would allow the employee to perform the essential functions of this job. 

Working Conditions: 

• Standard office, standard home office and/or virtual environment. Selected candidate will be required to periodically attend in-person meetings at PPPL.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.