Finance Procurement Specialist (Immediate Opening)

DescriptionFinance Procurement SpecialistRole Mission:The Finance Procurement Specialist goal is to provide and promote an effective procurement process which supports and advances the goals of IDEA Public Schools . The Procurement Specialist is responsible for organization-wide communication, training and end-user support with procurement processes. The vision is to create customer satisfaction by facilitating the efficient acquisition of goods and services in order to meet the needs of campuses and departments, while keeping in compliance with local policy, procedures and State and Federal regulations.The Procurement Specialist will report to the Procurement Supervisor.Location:This is a full-time remote position based in Texas with preference given to candidates who live in Austin, El Paso, Houston, Permian Basin (Midland/Odessa), Rio Grande Valley, San Antonio, and Tarrant County (Fort Worth), or who are willing to relocate.Travel Expectations:Up to 30% of the time during the busiest parts of the yearWhat You'll Do – AccountabilitiesEssential Duties:Support Financial Management Users with procurement processes in alignment with Board policyAchieve 95% or higher customer satisfaction on Zendesk ticketsIndependently research Board policy in order to complete tasks and accurately answer internal customer questionsIndependently problem solve issues related to procurement and the Financial Management SystemCollaborate with Director of Procurement to evaluate current processes, identify gaps, and provide recommendations for course correctionCommunicate updates and pending information to end usersProvide guidance related to expenditure allowability, according to TEA guidelines and local policyProvide support to end users via conference call or onsite training to 'close the procurement gap' related to receiving on goods and services in the Financial Management System in a timely mannerRun reports and analyze Invoice Tracker data to provide focused follow-up to end users, as neededPerform other duties and projects as assignedSupport Financial Service Manager with training and development of the Business ClerksAssist with onboarding of new business clerks and financial management users within 2 weeks of being hired on grant-related RFP/Bids, and requisitionsProvide continuous improvement sessions by gathering trend data for quarterly trainings and summer instituteParticipate in bi-weekly financial management users conference call to discuss trends and compliance and communicate 100 % of policy changes and updatesTake an active role in Beginning of Year committee and attend all meetingsRemain up to date with new procurement regulations and changes from TEA, USDOE and other governing bodiesAttend Region One and TASBO trainings on new State and Federal laws and regulations concerning procurement and update stakeholders on changes, issues, or concerns related to the procurement processWhat You Bring – CompetenciesKnowledge and Skills:Knowledge of basic accounting proceduresAbility to work with numbers in an accurate and rapid mannerAbility to analyze and organize a complex filing system of expense related documentationStrong problem solving skillsDetail oriented team playerExcellent influencing, communication, and coordination skillsRequired experience:Education: Bachelor's degree or related work experience preferred.Experience: 2-5 years of previous experience in procurement or purchasing and accounting, preferably in an education environmentWhat We Offer:Compensation & Benefits:Salaries for people entering this role typically fall between $20.34/hour and $25.42/hour, commensurate with relevant experience and qualifications and in alignment with internal equity. This role is also eligible for performance pay based on organizational performance and goal attainmentAdditionally, we offer medical, dental, and vision plans, disability, life insurance, parenting benefits, flexible spending account options, generous vacation time, referral bonuses, professional development, and a 403(b) plan . You can find more information about our benefits at https://ideapublicschools.org/careers/benefits/ .* IDEA may offer a relocation stipend to defray the cost of moving for this role, if applicable.Learn more about IDEAAt IDEA the Staff Culture and Belonging Team uses our Core Values to promote human connection and a culture of integrity, respect, and belonging for all Team and Family members. Learn more about our Commitment to Core Values here: https://ideapublicschools.org/our-story/#core-valuesIDEA Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex or disability, in admission or access to, or treatment of employment in its programs and activities. Any person having inquiries concerning the organization's compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI of Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504), or Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), may contact IDEA Human Resources at (956) 377-8000.