Corporate Services Specifier

NATURE AND SCOPE OF WORK

A Specifier provides services to departments and schools throughout the district in the development of all equipment specifications, including more intensive work in the areas of telecommunication and multimedia distribution system analysis. 

Using value analysis, an employee in this position specifies required quality and performance for services and equipment to meet the need of District schools and departments.

Work is performed under general direction with independent action and judgement exercised within established policies procedures, regulations, codes, by-laws and generally accepted design.  Employees in this classification utilize a variety of software applications.  Liaison with internal and external professional staff conducting highly detailed studies of existing equipment and services and their related functions and processes, when required in the successful completion of assigned projects.  Responsibilities may vary depending on area of assignment.

A Corporate Services Specifier reports to the Manager, Corporate Services.

TYPICAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Prepares technical and detailed specifications and scope for; ‘Request for Proposals’ and ‘Tenders’ that may require the use of a variety of computer software programs.  These documents may form part of contract documents. 

Prepares documentation for tenders and bids, evaluates the tender response merits, and along with the Purchasing department recommends selection of supplier/contractor to the Manager, Corporate Services. 

Assists the Manager, Corporate Services in developing and maintaining associated equipment life-cycle procedures and required preventative maintenance scheduling.

Assembles and takes lead in required committees when formulating standards or relevant procedures.

Liaises with Department Managers, Principals, key users, and suppliers in response to requests for non-standard equipment and/or systems.  Clarifies purposes and objectives of requests and provides advice regarding any matters requiring further consideration. 

Identifies the need for consultants as required and details requirements for consultant reports.  Reviews and discusses consultant reports with other key district staff and makes recommendations of consultant reports to the Manager, Corporate Services.

Reviews, critiques and recommends changes as required to engineering specifications for equipment, required for capital projects.

Discusses district requirements with vendors to identify new market trends and suitability of available products and services.

Conducts equipment testing and surveys involving Department Manager, Principals, and other key users.

Maintains records using various types of software, and recommends software refinements and improvements to District software applications.

Plans, organizes and/or may deliver training and technical assistance to others on the use of equipment.

Prepares cost estimates and associated purchase requisitions for projects, new essential equipment, and equipment replacement.

Advises sites of equipment safety regulations including; WCB occupational health and safety regulations, and District safe work practices, policies and procedures to ensure compliance.

Recommends the redeployment or disposal of surplus or end of life equipment.

Performs other related duties, as required.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Knowledge of the laws of requesting tenders proposals and quotations.

Knowledge of applicable codes, by-laws, regulations, and WCB occupational health and safety regulations.

Knowledge of the major steps of product life cycle.

Knowledge of public purchasing procedures and requirements.

Knowledge of market conditions, price trends, pricing practises, and ability to question suppliers about their pricing strategies.

Ability to forecast demand for equipment and system needs.

Ability to prepare clear and concise technical reports and accurate specifications.

Ability to read and interpret contract documents and administer contracts.

Ability to utilize computers and specialized software applications such as spreadsheets, database programs and mainframe software programs, as required.

Ability to plan, coordinate, and direct the work of contractors and consultants.

Ability to maintain accurate records.

Ability to read technical drawings and details, to effectively manage assigned projects.

Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing, and the ability to understand and carry out oral/written instructions accurately with minimal supervision.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and demonstrated leadership skills.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Has successfully completed ‘Level 4’ of the ‘Purchasing Management Association of Canada’ professional development program, leading to a Professional Purchasing Diploma. 

Four years previous experience in a public or private corporate services or purchasing department, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

LICENCE, CERTIFICATES AND REGISTRATION

Valid B.C. Driver’s Licence.