Entry Level Purchasing Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Functional Title: Purchaser III Job Title: Purchaser III Agency: Health & Human Services Comm Department: Purchasing - Consolidated 2 Posting Number: 20465 Closing Date: 11/22/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Business and Financial Operations Salary Range: $3,581.33- $4,416.66 Pay Frequency: MonthlySalary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Shift: Day Additional Shift: Days (First) Telework: Travel: Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: AUSTIN Job Location Address: 1100 W 49TH ST (DHSB) Other Locations: MOS Codes: 0402,3002,3006,3010,3043,3044,4100,4130,4133,6602,6604,6672,8057,8058,8059,8060,8061,8640,20C0,21RX
2G0X1,2S0X1,310X,36A,36B,4A1X1,51C,51Z,60C0,62S0,63A,63AX,63G0,63S0,651X,6C0X1,751X,89A,90A,920A
920B,92A,92Y,92Z,FIN10,F&S,LS,LSS,SEI16,SK
Brief Job Description:
Procurement and Contracting Services is looking for a Purchaser III.
The Purchaser III is a first-level procurement position that provides foundational experience through processing non-complex requisitions through purchase orders and Procard.
Performs novice (entry-level) purchasing and procurement work. Work involves researching, evaluating, purchasing, and procuring services using guidelines, rules, policies, and laws. May provide guidance to others. Works under general supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment following HHSC and PCS policies and procedures, and laws governing state purchasing.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs):
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy.
(25%) Reviews assigned requisitions for completeness and compliance with applicable requirements prior to processing; works with program customers to clarify and understand requirements and statements of work (SOW) relating to procurements. May assist program customers with researching vendors for products and services.
(20%) Submits program approved requirements and/or SOWs to qualified vendors. Reviews and tabulates bids and orders to determine lowest and most qualified bids or bids that provide best value.
(20%) Processes assigned requisitions to purchase orders (POs) in HHS's Centralized Accounting and Payroll/Personnel System (CAPPS) Financials or via state issued Procard in accordance with established timelines. Reviews, releases to vendor, and tracks purchase orders (POs) based on requesters' needs.
(15%) Prepares, reviews and verifies accuracy of procurement documentation against a checklist. Maintains all required procurement documentation and prepares files for upload into System of Contract Operation and Reporting (SCOR) in a timely manner. Uses automated procurement systems.
(10%) Works with management, requesters, subject matter experts, stakeholders, agency staff, and other purchasing staff to resolve purchasing related issues. Responds to phone and e-mail inquiries from requesters and other staff regarding the status of requisitions, POs and the delivery of services.
(5%) Prepares and/or reviews CAPPS Reports.
(5%) Performs other duties as assigned, such as participating in Veteran Heroes United in Business (VetHUB) and procurement related events, training, or providing support for the agency's disaster response and recovery obligations or Business Continuity Plan activation.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
Limited knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations governing state purchasing
Limited knowledge of purchasing and procurement methods and procedures
Limited knowledge of state of Texas procurement principles and practices, assigned commodities and products on the open market, and supply sources
Skill in the use of computer and applicable software
Skill in problem solving, including asking appropriate questions and identifying resources to obtain necessary information
Skill in attention to detail
Skill in organizing documentation
Skill in providing excellent customer service
Ability to logically assemble and evaluate information
Ability to maintain a system of required record keeping
Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing
Ability to schedule, prioritize, monitor and complete multiple assignments timely
Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team
Ability to act in a sound, logical, proactive and appropriate manner based on well thought out analysis of situations or problems.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD) - (formerly Certified Texas Procurement Manager) certification must be obtained within 6 months of hire.
Initial Screening Criteria:
Graduation from high school or equivalent required. Minimum of six (6) months of experience in purchasing or contract administration or a combination of both. One (1) year of experience in administrative support, general office, clerical experience or related work in an internship role required. State of Texas procurement experience preferred.
Additional Information:
N/A
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Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.
ADA Accommodations:
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.
Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:
Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form
Telework Disclaimer:
This position may be eligible for telework. Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.