Purpose

The City of Newport is seeking an experienced, hardworking, and dedicated professional to fill the position of Accounting Technician-Procurement, Purchasing, & Contract Specialist in our Finance Department. This position will be responsible to coordinate with the Finance Director to assist all City departments in the preparation and execution of competitive solicitations for contractors and consultants, and the processing of contract documents and agreements. Audits, analyzes, and monitors departments’ compliance with rules, statutes, and policies and procedures. May perform Citywide purchasing functions and other duties as required.

Qualifications

Any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the duties as described. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills, and abilities would be: A Bachelor’s degree in accounting with specialized course work in governmental contracting or purchasing; inventory control, or accounting and finance, AND three years progressively responsible experience in contract development and management or purchasing and inventory control process experience; or any equivalent combination of related education and experience relevant to the position.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Certified Professional Public Buyer certification (through the Universal Public Procurement Certification Council (UPPCC)) or approved equivalent or ability to obtain within three years of hire.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Oregon Procurement Basic Certification (OPBC)

KNOWLEDGE: Knowledge of Oregon Public Contracting Law (ORS 279 A, B, and C), Oregon Budget Law, governmental accounting theory, principles, and practices. Knowledge of internal control procedures, management information systems, office automation, computerized financial applications, payroll, and accounts payable functions. Knowledge of federal and state laws, and the rules and regulations relating to Capital Projects, federal grants, and purchasing.

SKILLS: Skill in the use of personal computers and various related software programs, including Microsoft Office 2013 (Excel and Word), and standard office equipment. Strong time management, analytical, organization, and prioritization skills. Customer Service orientation and skills. Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to work well with managers, supervisors, employees, and the public. Ability to effectively function in an intense work environment with numerous interruptions and conflicting demands. Strong oral and written communication skills with a variety of audiences. Ability to communicate complex material in a simple, understandable manner. Competence in business English, spelling, and punctuation. Strong reasoning, analysis, and problem-solving skills, combined with excellent judgment and professionalism. Strong math skills.

ABILITIES: Ability to establish and maintain an effective and professional working relationship with city management, employees, vendors, other entities, and the public. Ability to prepare and analyze complex financial reports, and maintain efficient and effective financial systems and procedures. Ability to communicate professionally and effectively, both orally and in writing, with individuals and groups. Ability to honor the confidentiality of the position. Ability to perform independent research, handle stressful situations effectively, use initiative, and make timely decisions. Ability to make presentations. Physical ability to perform the essential job functions.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand, bend, kneel, stoop, communicate, reach, and manipulate objects. The position requires mobility, including the ability to frequently lift or move materials up to 5 pounds, and occasionally lift or move materials up to 25 pounds. Manual dexterity and coordination are required more than 60% of the work period to operate such equipment as computers, keyboards, telephones, and standard office equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work location is primarily indoors where work occurs under usual office working conditions.

How to Apply

All applications for this position must be submitted via our online application system at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/cityofnewport

Only complete applications will be considered and application review will continue until position is filled. Please do not fax, mail or e-mail any documentation. You will receive a confirmation email when your application has been successfully submitted.

The City of Newport is an EEO employer and veterans preference provider. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under state, federal, or local law.

All offers of employment are subject to successful completion of a background check, reference checking, and in the case of safety sensitive positions, drug and alcohol testing.

The City of Newport follows Oregon law regarding Veterans’ Preference in Public Employment. If you are requesting Veterans’ Preference, you must complete the Veteran’s Preference Form and attach a copy of your DD214 / DD215. If you are a disabled veteran, you must also include a copy of your Veterans Administration benefit summary/award letter with your application.