Buyer

Performs a variety of support functions required by the Materials Management department including, but not limited to, ordering supplies and services to meet the fiscal and material needs of the organization; following sound purchasing practices; utilizing buying group and individual contracts; maintaining filing system; answering incoming calls, answering questions, handling of the incoming and outgoing mail, and processing of all correspondence and reports as directed.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Performed majority of the time:

·         Maintains inventory using automated inventory control system.

·         Assists Materials Manager and Purchasing Agent in maintaining accuracy of the Med/Surg patient billable charge system.

·         Maintains purchase order and on-order status files.

·         Maintains good working rapport with other departments in the organization to assure that procurement procedures meet the needs of the organization.

·         Completes duties and responsibilities as assigned by Materials Manager.

·         Completes all mandatory education and licensure requirements to meet state, JCAHO, and professional requirements.

·         Coordinates purchasing of approved medical-surgical supplies, office supplies, forms and business cards.

·         Maintains and updates Envi system modules (item file, vendor file, requisition templates, etc.) as needed or directed.

·         Maintains a safe environment for patients and staff; reports potential safety hazards.

·         Utilizes purchasing contracts and the services of our Group Purchasing Organizations (GPO’S) and other vendors to maximize the organization's investment in supplies and services.

·         Keeps abreast of economic conditions/situations recommending and making adjustments to assure the continued ability to provide quality patient care at the lowest possible cost.

·         Participates in product evaluation analysis in terms of quality, price, availability and service.

Performed occasionally but critical to successful performance of the job:

·         Participates in hospital committees, brown bag lunches and pertinent classes to take advantage of continuing education to keep up with the changes in the organization and in the healthcare industry.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

Education:

Required

·         N/A

Preferred

·         Associate degree in Healthcare, Business Administration or equivalent experience.

Experience:

Required

·         N/A

Preferred

·         Two or more (2+) years’ experience in purchasing in healthcare.

Licenses, Certifications and/or Registrations:

Required

·         N/A

Preferred

·         N/A

Job Related Skills, Abilities and Behaviors:

Required

·         Demonstrates effective interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.

·         Demonstrates excellent customer service skills.

·         Ability to multi-task and prioritize workload effectively.

·         Experience in Word and Excel

·         Excellent analytical skills required.

·         Uses effective communication skills.

·         Practices confidentiality of information to assure rights of patients and organization are protected.

·         Follows appropriate procurement guidelines to be sure that all purchase orders and requisitions are properly prepared, signed, and submitted as requested in accordance with established policies and procedures.

·         Practices safe work habits and keeps department in a clean and orderly manner.

·         Makes decisions necessary to run the department efficiently and effectively in the absence of the Materials Manager and Purchasing Agent.

·         Demonstrates mission and values through actions to support the organization.

·         Demonstrates effective communication skills over the phone and in person.

·         Communicates effectively with customers of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Preferred

·         Knowledge of electronic medical records and P-Card use.

·         Bilingual skills a plus.