This is supervisory work in the purchase, receipt, storage and issuance of commodities for a water and sewer utility warehouse.

Employees in this class are responsible for supervision of a warehouse facility stocking plumbing, electrical, carpentry, refrigeration and related building maintenance supplies. Emphasis of the work is on planning, coordinating and implementing procedures for the requisitioning, receiving, storing, issuing and the recording of a large variety of commodities. Duties include coordinating requisitioning activities with central purchasing, maintenance of a computerized inventory control system and monitoring stock levels of the assigned supply facility. Supervision is exercised over a group of specialized and clerical employees through assignment and review of work and provision of assistance with difficult problems. Supervision is received from an administrative superior who reviews work for conformity with departmental policies and procedures and for efficient operation of the warehouse facility.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Plans, assigns and supervises the work of subordinate specialized and clerical employees engaged in the purchase, receipt, storage and issuance of a large variety of parts, materials, tools, supplies and equipment.

Develops, implements and evaluates methods and procedures for requisitioning, receiving, storing, issuing and the recording of utility supply items; confers with maintenance and operations supervisors concerning necessary equipment and supplies; coordinates requisitioning activities with central purchasing operation.

Supervises and participates in the maintenance of a computerized inventory control and records keeping system; monitors stock levels of assigned supply facility; plans and implements storage and precautionary methods to protect stock from loss, damage or deterioration.

Initiates purchase requests; contacts vendors for competitive bid quotations; determines best method of purchase and lowest bidders and advises supervisor of problems in requisitioning and obtaining goods.

Confers with central purchasing employees, department officials and vendors concerning purchase requests, delivery schedules, damaged goods, incorrect deliveries and billing.

Consults with manufacturer's representatives concerning stock planning, equipment modifications, parts interchangeability and requisitioning procedures; coordinates activities with vendors and suppliers to assure optimum service and delivery.

Verifies receipt and issuance of supplies; approves invoices for payments; prepares routine and special reports concerning distribution activities and related matters.

Trains subordinates in purchasing, distribution and inventory procedures.

Makes recommendations regarding hiring, discipline and promotion of subordinates; authorizes leave and overtime; evaluates and rates employee performance.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Considerable knowledge of departmental policies and procedures concerning the purchase, receipt, storage and issuance of various commodities including parts, materials, tools and equipment.

Considerable knowledge of computerized purchasing and inventory control systems.

Considerable knowledge of inventory control and records keeping procedures.

Knowledge of supervisory principles and practices.

Knowledge of simple data processing and transmission principles utilized in computerized information systems.

Knowledge of centralized purchasing methods and procedures.

Knowledge of specifications, grades, qualities, supply sources and market factors of commodity categories in area of assignment.

Ability to plan, assign and supervise the work of subordinates in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.

Ability to develop and implement warehousing and purchasing operational policies and procedures.

Ability to maintain accurate procurement and inventory records.

Ability to analyze and review a large volume of procurement requests on a timely basis.

Ability to manage a utility warehouse operation in an efficient and effective manner.

Ability to determine the types, sizes, grades and quantities of a variety of utility equipment and goods.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with vendors, manufacturers, subordinates, superiors and purchasing officials.

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

REV 7-86