The University of Virginia seeks a qualified candidate for the position of Sourcing Specialist or Senior Sourcing Specialist, reporting to the Procurement Category Manager. This individual will play a vital role within UVA Finance, contributing to the procurement of goods and services as part of the Department of Procurement Services (PS).

The Sourcing Specialist or Senior Sourcing Specialist will provide comprehensive buying services to University stakeholders through both transactional and strategic processes across key business categories.

The ideal candidate will have relevant experience in procurement and operations—preferably within a university or academic setting—and will demonstrate the ability to assess business risks, think strategically, communicate effectively with high-level stakeholders, and develop practical solutions for complex business needs.

This role requires both independent initiative and the ability to collaborate effectively within a team. Work is primarily independent, and goals are established in coordination with the supervisor.

This position is currently eligible for telework, with a strong preference for candidates who can work in a hybrid capacity (i.e., both in-person and remote).

Why Join UVA Finance?

At UVA Finance, excellence, innovation, and collaboration are core values. As part of the team, this individual will contribute to meaningful work that directly impacts the University’s financial operations. If managing multiple priorities, solving complex problems, and making a tangible impact sounds appealing, this could be the right opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

1. Procurement Administration

Sourcing Specialist:

Perform procurement functions while complying with state laws and University policies.

Collaborate proactively with internal and external stakeholders to develop best-value sourcing strategies.

Assist University departments with procurement inquiries and vendor service issues.

Ensure compliance with University standards while analyzing purchasing trends and meeting individual goals.

Prioritize customer service, due diligence, quality, and problem-solving.

Senior Sourcing Specialist (includes all of the above, plus):

Serve as a primary contact for researchers and academic leaders to develop business plans for complex procurements.

Manage a mix of transactional procurement tasks and lead complex, high-dollar sourcing events.

Conduct market research to identify sourcing options that meet University needs.

2. Continuous Improvement

Sourcing Specialist:

Engage proactively with stakeholders to anticipate needs and develop sourcing solutions.

Streamline University buying practices by creating tools and improving processes.

Analyze performance data to optimize sourcing strategies.

Document processes, develop templates, and deliver data-driven reports to support decision-making.

Propose solutions for procurement tracking and process management.

Senior Sourcing Specialist (includes all of the above, plus):

Discuss market trends and supplier strategies with stakeholders to propose innovative solutions.

Support and mentor less experienced sourcing professionals.

Take an active role in strategic cross-departmental initiatives.

3. Project Management / Special Projects

Sourcing Specialist:

Carry out duties and projects assigned by the Category Manager, meeting quality and timeline expectations.

Senior Sourcing Specialist (includes all of the above, plus):

Lead longer-term and continuous improvement projects from goal-setting to implementation.

Coordinate team roles, analyze findings, propose solutions, and maintain communication throughout.

Qualifications

Education:

Sourcing Specialist: Bachelor’s degree preferred or 6 years of equivalent relevant experience.

Senior Sourcing Specialist: Bachelor’s degree preferred or 9 years or equivalent relevant experience.

Experience:

Sourcing Specialist: At least three years of relevant experience in procurement or supply chain functions.

Senior Sourcing Specialist: At least five years of relevant experience, including in one or more of the following categories: IT, scientific discovery, services, athletics, or facilities/MRO.

Required Skills (Both Levels)

Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication (written and verbal) skills.

Proven analytical skills and experience reporting on metrics and cost savings.

Ability to build relationships and influence internal and external partners.

Knowledge of procurement concepts, methods, and strategies (preferably in a university or public sector setting).

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams).

Preferred Skills

Experience negotiating and managing procurement across complex categories.

Familiarity with supplier diversity initiatives and Lean/continuous improvement methods.

Knowledge of systems such as Salesforce, Workday, DocuSign, and procure-to-pay platforms.

Understanding of procurement legislation at federal and Virginia state levels.

Experience supporting accounts payable and finance functions related to procurement.

Licensure/Certification:

Certification in Purchasing, Procurement, Contracting, Supply Chain, Strategic Sourcing, or Category Management is strongly preferred.

Compensation:

Sourcing Specialist: $50,000 – $65,000

Senior Sourcing Specialist: $65,000 – $90,000

This position is open to remote work, with the understanding that occasional travel to Charlottesville, VA may be required for in-person meetings and collaboration.

If you’re ready to take your career to the next level and play a pivotal role in shaping the University’s financial operations, we encourage you to apply today.

This position will remain open until filled. This is an Exempt level, benefited position. The University will perform background checks on all hires (if required) prior to employment. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States. For this role, the University will not sponsor or consider candidates requiring sponsorship for employment visas now or in the future.  For questions about the position or the application process, please contact Daniel Strong, Senior Recruiter at das6zb@virginia.edu. 

Please apply through the University job board, Careers at UVA, and search for R0076403. 

Internal applicants must apply through their UVA Workday profile by searching ‘Find Jobs’ or through their ‘Jobs Hub’. Applicants must complete an application online with the following documents: a resume and cover letter.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Bachelor's degree
Experience: At least three years of experience
Licensure: Certified Purchasing Manager certification (CPM) may be held.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.