The City of Cedar Rapids is seeking a detail-oriented and service-driven Purchasing Agent I to join our Finance team. In this role, you’ll coordinate bids, contracts, and purchase orders across City departments—ensuring fair, efficient, and compliant procurement practices. From preparing bid documents to supporting internal customers and process improvements, you’ll play a key role in keeping City operations running smoothly. If you're organized, collaborative, and ready to make an impact through public procurement—this opportunity is for you!
About our Organization
At the City, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our community’s diverse backgrounds, and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. If you are an individual with similar experience listed here please consider applying. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation.
About our Community
Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city.Cedar Rapids - Why you should live here!
About this Opportunity
The Purchasing Agent I position processes bids and contracts for the purchase of goods and services and purchase orders for the City.
The City of Cedar Rapids does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Prepares bid documents for goods and services utilizing the City’s e-procurement solution.
- Conducts formal bid openings, tabulates, analyzes, and evaluates bid results, awards bids to successful bidders.
- Prepares and administers contracts for services, professional services and long-term purchases.
- Prepares and uploads resolutions for city council approval as required.
- Posts and uploads addendums, attachments, bid tabulations and bid requests via the City’s e-procurement system.
- Process purchase order requests received from all departments.
- Responds to questions and serves as a resource for citywide internal customers regarding purchasing policies, and citywide contract information in a professional manner.
- Identifies trends and reports on quality control (QC) to help identify areas for continuous process improvement.
- Works proactively with city departments in determining purchasing demands and requirements.
- Participates in the Iowa Public Procurement Association (IPPA) and The Institute for Public Procurement (NIGP) organizations and ensures that all citywide contracts and bid procedures are followed and executed in compliance with purchasing industry and city standards.
- Assumes responsibility for purchasing activities on assigned projects and meeting project deadlines.
- Performs related work as required.
Required Education and Experience
- Associate's Degree in Business, Finance or closely related field and
- One (1) to three (3) years’ experience in finance or purchasing, preparing a variety of solicitations and contracts, or
- An equivalent combination of education and/or experience
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office
- Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population
Work Schedule
- Monday - Friday 7:30am to 4:30pm
