Materials Procurement Spec/Exped Lead

University of Alabama at Birmingham

To lead and oversee materials procurement, expediting, and related operational activities in support of departmental and project objectives. To ensure the timely acquisition and delivery of materials, promote effective communication among stakeholders, and drive continuous improvement of procurement and materials management processes. To provide guidance and direction to staff, resolve complex procurement and operational issues, and ensure compliance with institutional policies, fiscal requirements, and operational standards.

Key Roles & Responsibilities

· Provides leadership and direction to procurement and expediting staff by assigning work, establishing priorities, monitoring progress, and supporting employee development through training, coaching, and procedural guidance.

· Manages the expediting process for critical and long lead-time materials by monitoring order status, developing expediting strategies, and collaborating with vendors, procurement staff, and internal customers to ensure timely delivery and minimize operational disruptions

· Resolves complex procurement, expediting, and materials-related issues by evaluating operational impact, assessing risks, prioritizing requests, and implementing solutions that support uninterrupted operations and project schedules.

· Serves as the primary liaison between procurement, warehouse operations, vendors, and internal departments to address escalated materials management concerns, coordinate corrective actions, and facilitate effective communication among stakeholders.

· Reviews and validates procurement documentation and fiscal activities to ensure purchase orders, material specifications, contracts, and financial commitments are accurate, complete, and aligned with operational, project, and budget requirements.

· Analyzes procurement and materials management performance metrics to identify trends, recommends process improvements, and supports initiatives that enhance efficiency, customer service, and operational effectiveness.

· Supports Facilities Fiscal Affairs leadership by coordinating operational activities, monitoring priorities and deadlines, managing information flow, and facilitating procurement and materials-related initiatives.

· Maintains procurement and operational records by developing and managing tracking systems, reports, delivery records, vendor communications, and supporting documentation in accordance with institutional policies and audit requirements.

· Performs other duties as assigned.

Salary Range: $52,555 - $85,400

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Business or a related field and five (5) years of related experience. Work experience may substitute for education requirement.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Work Characteristics

· Strong understanding of procurement, purchasing, and materials management principles, including purchasing procedures, vendor relations, inventory practices, and supply chain operations

· Expertise in expediting processes and logistics coordination to support the timely acquisition and delivery of critical materials and equipment

· Leadership capabilities to establish priorities, provide guidance, monitor work progress, and promote accountability among staff

· Analytical and problem-solving capabilities to evaluate procurement issues, material availability concerns, delivery delays, and operational challenges

· Effective verbal and written communication skills for interacting with vendors, contractors, departmental leadership, and internal customers

· Strong organizational and time-management skills to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing operational needs

· Proficiency in procurement, financial, inventory, and reporting systems used to track purchasing activities, maintain records, analyze data, and support operational decision-making

Licenses / Certifications / Registrations

Driving record should meet University underwriting guidelines to drive vehicle in performance of University business. Current guidelines include possession of a valid driver's license issued in the United States, at least 21 years of age and at least 3 years of driving experience. Must maintain an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).

UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.