This is advanced administrative work in the procurement of equipment, supplies, and professional services for the Information Technology Department.

An employee in this class is responsible for planning procurement activities to acquire equipment, software, supplies, and professional services required for central data processing and telecommunications functions. Responsibilities include developing plans, methods and criteria for procurement activities, conducting negotiations to obtain favorable terms and conditions in the acquisition of equipment and services, developing bid documents and contracts, and analyzing and evaluating vendor proposals. The incumbent exercises considerable independent judgment in the application of knowledges of current data processing and telecommunications technology to the timely and cost-effective procurement of major capital purchases. General supervision is received from an administrative superior who reviews work through personal conferences and written reports for effective procurement activities.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Conducts negotiations to obtain favorable terms and conditions in the acquisition of data processing and telecommunications equipment, software, various supplies, and professional services essential for central data processing and telecommunications operations.

Evaluates department plans and develops strategies for acquisition of resources and alternate employment of capital and budget funds to accomplish departmental procurement objectives.

Ensures timely and efficient acquisition of equipment and supplies for the department through coordination of procurement processes, procedures, and criteria selection.

Oversees development of bid documents; determines amount and degree of detail necessary to support acquisition plans and programs, and best means of collecting and analyzing data.

Analyzes and evaluates vendor proposals; develops negotiation strategies; conducts management briefings and integrates recommendations from line managers to determine and finalize acquisition objectives.

Develops formal contract language concerning complex financial, legal, and operating issues.

Plans for and conducts or oversees negotiations with vendors designated for award; assists in resolving conflicts and ensures that objectives are achieved in final contract documents.

Coordinates work with various other County departments to facilitate the contracting process and effective consideration of major programs and capital projects.

Identifies needs, initiates, and structures special

documentation, including contracts, agreements, memoranda, and resolutions, to produce required results.

Develops and coordinates preparation of alternative proposals to support major acquisitions in the department's annual budget submission.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS

Thorough knowledge of purchasing procedures for the acquisition of computer hardware, software, telecommunications equipment, and related supplies, commodities, and services.

Thorough knowledge of specifications, nomenclatures and supply sources for a variety of data processing and telecommunications equipment and supplies.

Considerable knowledge of County central procurement regulations, policies, procedures, and procurement processes.

Considerable knowledge of required information for bid documents and contracts.

Considerable knowledge of the principles of business and public administration.

Considerable knowledge of public relations principles and techniques.

Ability to negotiate favorable terms and conditions for the acquisition of data processing and telecommunications equipment, supplies, and professional services.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, vendor representatives, and a variety of public and private officials.

Ability to coordinate a variety of procurement processes and procedures to achieve acquisition of required equipment and services.

Ability to develop formal contract language for bid documents.

Ability to analyze vendor proposals and make effective recommendations for approvals.

Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, verbally and in writing.

NEW 10-93