Description

Location: Albany, NY Category: Research Foundation Careers Posted On: Thu Dec 4 2025 Job Description:

Description of Duties:

The Purchasing Associate procures goods and services for the research community at the University at Albany for externally funded activity. This is an onsite position with the option of being hybrid up to 60% with supervisor approval.

Essential Functions

• Purchase equipment, supplies and services in accordance with Federal Uniform Guidance and Research Foundation requirements, and where applicable, State, SUNY and UAlbany rules and regulations. (50%)
• Utilize NYS (SUNY, Cooperative Purchasing) contracts as purchasing sources when appropriate. (10%)
• Apply appropriate procurement standards for formal proposal and bid processes. (10%)
• Conduct review, negotiation, and creation of standard contracts (such as service and maintenance contracts) for completion and accuracy. (10%)
• Maximize solicitations and awards made to Minority Women Business Enterprises (MWBE) vendors in accordance with State, SUNY, Research Foundation and campus policies and procedures. (10%)
• Conduct outreach meetings to provide training on the procurement process with the campus community (5%)
• Participate in educational development including but not limited to new legislation (state & federal), SUNY policy and sponsor regulations/guidelines. (5%)

Job Requirements:

Minimum Requirements:

• A bachelor's degree and 2 years purchasing or finance/accounting or other business administrative function
• Strong Analytical Skills: Proficiency documenting vendor selection, determination of price reasonability, analysis of business terms, contract terms and conditions and negotiation.
• Communication: Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential for interacting with researchers, vendors, and other stakeholders. The purchasing associate should be able to effectively communicate purchasing policies, negotiate contracts, resolve conflicts, and build positive relationships. Additionally, strong collaboration skills enable the associate to work closely with faculty, staff, and finance departments to ensure seamless procurement processes and compliance.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: A strong focus on teamwork and collaboration is vital in a diverse environment. The ability to work effectively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, leveraging their strengths and valuing their contributions, fosters a sense of belonging and promotes a collaborative and inclusive work culture.
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Requirements:

• Experience working with the Research Foundation, SUNY, and/or Federal procurement policy.
• Practical experience reviewing contract terms and conditions and negotiating unacceptable terms.

Additional Information:

Salary Range: $63,000-$70,000 (DOE)

Federal law and regulations require notice to all prospective employees regarding crimes that have occurred on campus in the current three-year period. Please refer to the following website for the complete Annual Security Report ("Clery Report"):http://police.albany.edu/ASR.shtml

As an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, The Research Foundation for SUNY will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant's race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgender status, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, physical and mental disability, criminal record, genetic information, predisposition or carrier status, status with respect to receiving public assistance, domestic violence victim status, a disabled, special, recently separated, active duty wartime, campaign badge, Armed Forces service medal veteran, or any other characteristics protected under applicable law.

The Research Foundation for The State University of New York offers exceptional benefits such as healthcare, dental, vision, pension plans, competitive pay, generous paid time off, tuition assistance, life insurance and long-term disability insurance. The University at Albany offers a variety of performing arts, world class libraries, and competitive sporting events.