Buyer I – Procurement & Category Management

About the role

The Procurement and Real Estate Services Department is looking for a Buyer I to support Vancouver’s future livability by acquiring essential goods and services. This full‑time position works closely with client departments to manage public solicitations and ensure value‑driven purchasing.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare detailed specifications, vendor criteria, and tender documents in collaboration with client departments.
• Manage the full tender process, including advertising, distributing information, and analyzing bids on price, quality, and performance.
• Interview suppliers, negotiate discounts, terms, delivery schedules, and determine optimal sources of supply.
• Draft contract language, verify insurance and bonding requirements, and monitor awarded contracts.
• Research products and services, produce reports and recommendations, and advise client departments on purchasing matters.
• Liaise with engineers, architects, project managers, contractors, suppliers, and legal counsel.
• Maintain purchasing records and generate statistical reports.

Required profile

• Completion of high school plus recognized purchasing coursework (e.g., majority of Supply Management Training program).
• Considerable experience in municipal procurement and category management for corporate services.
• Strong knowledge of municipal purchasing policies, market conditions, price trends, and relevant regulations.
• Understanding of contract law and negotiation principles.

Required skills