Buyer III (Senior Buyer and Contracts Manager)

This position will be working at 10240 Science Center Drive, Suite 200, La Jolla, CA 92121.

The Senior Buyer and Contracts Manager will exercise fiduciary duty and judgment to protect the interests of Salk, donors, and grant agencies while ensuring all procurement services comply with Salk policies and other applicable regulations. The role is expected to procure, contract, and qualify supply sources for an assigned set of goods and services that are complex or technical in nature, including license agreements, custom products, consulting and professional services.  This role is responsible for reviewing and establishing prices, payment schedules, quality requirements, delivery, terms, conditions, and other related specifications. Obtains competition through RFQs and RFPs and maintains required documentation according to department policies, including source selection, price reasonableness, and sole sources. Advises internal clients, recommends alternative sources and product/service options when appropriate.  Analyzes spend within assigned goods and services to identify opportunities for strategic sourcing.  Assists with formal cross-functional RFP process including documentation, supplier qualification, pre-bid meetings, scoring, and analysis.  Implements, administers, maintains, and closes out assigned contracts including performance management, corrective actions, amendments, and renewals.  Mediates and resolves conflicts, disputes, or issues between suppliers and internal clients.  Provides customer service support including returns, invoice resolution, and overdue orders.

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values all members of our scientific community. We seek bold and interactive leaders passionate about exploring new frontiers in science. Our collaborative community embraces perspectives across discipline, professional acumen, and unique life experiences, fostering innovation, and a sense of belonging. Together, we strive to improve the wellbeing of humanity through groundbreaking research.

Founded by Jonas Salk, developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine, the Institute is an independent, nonprofit research organization and architectural landmark: small by choice, intimate by nature, and fearless in the face of any challenge. Salk's vibrant community has many talented individuals from varied backgrounds, each playing a crucial role in driving our mission forward. From visionary leaders to dedicated administrators and brilliant faculty members, the Institute is united by a shared passion for scientific exploration and innovation. 

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Reviews, interprets, and updates of requisitions for goods and services.
• Conveys any special circumstances, requirements, or terms and conditions that may apply to a pending request.
• Prepares and administers requests for quotes, proposals and information (RFx) or otherwise obtains competition as required to issue purchase orders. Reviews and negotiates the responses to ensure the best value for the internal client, including best pricing, quality, service and delivery schedules, including terms and conditions.
• Selects suppliers and places orders through an e-procurement system associated with assigned goods and services and attaches all documentation required per procurement procedures and policies.
• Ensures that all requirements are met once an order is placed; works with internal clients and suppliers to resolve billing issues and delivery discrepancies. Expedites orders to meet initial delivery or new delivery requirements.
• Reviews spending trends and identifies potential opportunities for strategic sourcing, contracting, supply chain maximization, and supply base consolidation. Participates in strategic sourcing initiatives.
• Acts as back-up in the absence of other Buyers.
• Trains and provides guidance and informal mentoring to other Buyers as needed.
• Manages and orchestrates all aspects of contract life cycle from supplier qualification to RFx development to contract completion. Ensures all procedures are followed and the highest ethical standards are upheld.
• Vets potential suppliers to ensure they meet all requirements to do business with Salk, including ensuring they are not debarred or otherwise excluded from government procurements actions.
• Reviews and negotiates contractual terms, pricing and other spe