Indirect Buyer: Construction & Facilities - Knoxville, TN

Job Title: Indirect Buyer – Construction & Facilities 

Position Summary 

The Indirect Buyer – Construction & Facilities is responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing indirect goods and services with primary emphasis on construction, facilities, and capital project–related spend. This role partners closely with Development, Finance, and Project Management teams to ensure cost-effective, compliant, and timely procurement while supporting broader indirect purchasing activities as needed. 

Key Responsibilities 

Construction & Facilities Procurement (Primary Focus) 

Source and manage procurement for construction-related goods and services including: 

• General contractors, subcontractors, and specialty trades 

• Construction materials, MRO, and rental equipment 

• Architectural, engineering, and consulting services 

• Facilities maintenance, repairs, and capital improvement projects 

• Support new builds, renovations, expansions, and infrastructure upgrades from RFx through project close-out 

• Develop bid packages, issue RFQs/RFPs, evaluate proposals, and support contract negotiations 

• Coordinate with internal stakeholders to align procurement timelines with project schedules 

• Monitor contractor performance, pricing, compliance, safety, and insurance requirements 

• Ensure adherence to company procurement policies, project budgets, and approval thresholds 

Indirect Procurement (Secondary Scope) 

• Procure other indirect goods and services as assigned (e.g., professional services, utilities, office supplies, IT peripherals) 

• Maintain preferred supplier lists and support vendor rationalization efforts 

• Execute purchase orders, manage change orders, and resolve invoice discrepancies 

• Ensure compliance with contract terms, service-level agreements, and payment terms 

Supplier & Cost Management 

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and service providers 

• Drive cost reduction and value improvement initiatives (competitive bidding, TCO analysis, scope optimization) 

• Track spend and support budgeting, forecasting, and cost reporting activities 

• Identify risk related to supply continuity, pricing volatility, or contractor performance 

Process & Compliance 

• Ensure procurement activities comply with internal controls, audit requirements, and applicable regulations 

• Maintain accurate documentation, contracts, and procurement records 

• Support continuous improvement initiatives within procurement processes and systems 

Required Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Construction Management, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience) 

• 2–5 years of procurement experience, with demonstrated experience in construction or facilities-related sourcing 

• Working knowledge of construction contracts, project procurement cycles, and contractor management 

• Experience with RFx processes, commercial negotiations, and supplier performance management 

• Proficiency in ERP or procurement systems (e.g., Ramp, NetSuite, Coupa, Ariba, or similar) 

• Strong financial and analytical skills with the ability to evaluate bids and cost models 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience supporting capital projects in manufacturing, industrial, or commercial environments 

• Familiarity with construction contract types (lump sum, T&M, GMP) 

• Knowledge of safety, insurance, lien waivers, and compliance requirements in construction 

• Professional certifications (CPSM, CPP, PMP, or similar) a plus 

Key Competencies 

• Strong stakeholder collaboration and communication skills 

• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously 

• Commercial mindset with attention to detail 

• Problem-solving and decision-making capability in fast-paced project environments 

• High level of integrity and professionalism 

Work Environment 

• Combination of office-based work and site/project interaction as required 

• May support multiple locations or projects concurrently 

Perks 

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance 

• 401(K) 

• Life Insurance 

• Competitive Salary 

• Paid Time Off (PTO) 

• Free Admission for Employees and their Immediate Family 

• Employee Discounts on Food and Merchandise 

• Generous Pass Exchange Program with Area Attractions 

• Free Parking